KING, N.C. - AstroBug -- As travel restrictions decrease in many areas and companies begin bringing employees back into the workplace, Pet Sitters International (PSI) is offering pet parents a word of caution: Do your research to ensure you select the best pet-care provider for your pets this summer.

PSI, the world's leading educational association for professional pet sitters, advises pet owners to make time for research to ensure they are selecting a professional pet sitter to care for their pets, whether they are just planning a last-minute daytrip, a vacation or a return to the office.

Due to the current pandemic, pet owners should specifically inquire about a pet-sitting company's COVID-19 safety protocols and confirm the pet sitter has implemented policies and procedures that address the pandemic, PSI advises.

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"Unlike individuals who are just pet sitting for extra cash or as a side gig, professional pet sitters will have taken the time to put health and safety policies in place for their businesses," explained PSI President Beth Stultz-Hairston. "Professional pet sitters have long prioritized the health and safety of pets and clients, and they will be happy to share about the specific safety protocols they have in place due to COVID-19."

PSI's 2020 Pet Sitter of the Year™ Jeanne Crockett, owner of Crockett's Critter Care in New Bern, North Carolina, is one of the many professional pet sitters who have completed PSI's COVID-19 Certification for Professional Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers course.

"It's important to me to demonstrate that my business is taking precautions to protect pets, pet owners and their pet sitters during this unprecedented time," Crockett said. "We want clients to have peace of mind that their pets are receiving exceptional care."

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Crockett is sharing the precautions she and her staff sitters are taking on her company's website, on social media and in her communications to clients.

"In addition to safety protocols, business credentials and training should also be top considerations when selecting a pet sitter," added Stultz-Hairston.

Pet owners should know the specific questions to ask to ensure they are using the services of a professional pet-care business. PSI offers a free pet-sitter interview checklist at www.petsit.com/locate, detailing the questions pet owners should ask a potential pet sitter. PSI recommends pet owners schedule an initial consultation with a potential pet sitter prior to booking services.

To learn more about PSI or to locate a professional pet sitter in your area, visit www.petsit.com/locate.