As a pet owner, you know that leaving home for an extended period of time can be a little more challenging than for those without pets. We at Frisky Felines & Friends Professional Pet Sitting want you to have an enjoyable, worry-free trip, so we have compiled this list of tips for you to keep in mind as you prepare for your excursion:

1. Make your pet sitting arrangements with Frisky Felines & Friends at your earliest opportunity - as soon as you know your travel dates. If your travel plans are flexible, we recommend consulting with Frisky Felines & Friends before making your reservations to confirm availability in our schedule.

2. Ensure sure that both dogs and cats have sturdy collars with current identification tags. Many pet owners feel most secure using the "Break-Away" style for their cats.

3. Have appropriate sizes and numbers of carriers/traveling cages for pets and place them in an obvious location in the home. (In the event of an emergency, seconds count!)

4. Stock up on pet food and supplies, just in case you are away longer than you expect, to avoid additional errand charges.

5. Place pet supplies, as well as cleaning supplies, in a central location that will be easy for your pet sitter to find. (Having three cases of premium pet food tucked away in your attic will not be of any use to us if we need it while you are away!)

6. Clearing your refrigerator of highly perishable items and avoiding leaving dirty dishes in your sink will help avoid spoilage and odors.

7. Put away valuable outdoor and indoor items visible from the exterior of your house to discourage theft.

8. Any items likely to broken or chewed on by pets should be moved into safer locations.

9. Place large bowls under indoor plants to catch excess water (just in case we accidentally over water them) to prevent damage to your furnishings and floor coverings.

10. Having a timer light that goes on during evening hours will comfort your pet and make your house safer for Frisky Felines & Friends to visit in the evening hours. It will also increase the security of your home by discouraging theft, and is a great compliment to the additional security enhancements we will perform.

11. In the summer months, mow your grass before you leave (or arrange for someone else to do it as needed) so that your house looks "lived in" during your entire absence.

12. If a neighbor is going to keep an eye on your property while you are away, notify them that Frisky Felines & Friends will be caring for your home and pets.

13. If circumstances arise after our interview (but before your trip) that affects your service requirements, notify us as soon as possible.

14. An article of your recently worn clothing left in or near a pet's favorite place will provide your pet comfort in your absence.

15. Write down or memorize our easy telephone number (202-582-PETS "7378") so that you can give us a call during your trip for a timely report on your pets and home, and to notify us in the event that your return is delayed.