Pets of the Month

may have one of those but beware, it took my friend lots of planning, experimentation, and practice to make those annual trips work.

Most cats are attached to their own familiar territory so it is less disruptive if you engage someone to come in or actually stay in your home. That person may be a friend, neighbor, or a professional service. All my cat sitters have come through referrals from friends, but your veterinarian or neighborhood web sites are other possible referral sources. However you find the caregiver, make sure you meet them in person to see how they interact with your pets and so they can familiarize themselves with your house and the pet’s routines. Get references if they are in the pet sitting business. Leave written instructions on feeding, medications, your veterinarian and your own contact information; and if you are going to be away for more than a few days, ask them to provide you feedback on how things are going. One of my pet sitters sent me daily photos and that was enormously reassuring. It goes without saying that you need to leave an adequate supply of food and any required medication. Depending on how often the sitter will be in your home, you also may wish to provide extra water bowls and litter boxes. As we cat owners know, our feline friends can be quite particular about their litter box and if it is not cleaned regularly they may choose to go elsewhere. Also, have a backup plan. Even the most reliable sitter can get ill or have an emergency so provide contact information for a friend or neighbor who could jump in if necessary.

Boarding may also be an option especially if your cat is very social or has medical needs. It is not the best choice if he is shy or easily frightened. I had to relocate my cats during a house renovation. One barely noticed the change of scene; the other refused to come out of the basement of the new place for many days. If you do chose a commercial facility, a visit to the place you are considering is mandatory. You need to observe firsthand that the staff is well trained, there is easy access to medical services, and that your kitty will have adequate/quiet space and attention.

Most people decide to leave their cat friends in their own space, so one last word about that. During your absence even with a sitter, cats need their usual access to your home so consider propping doors open so they do not get shut out (or worse, in) of rooms they are used to lounging in. Leave some blinds open so they can have entertainment from the outside, leave toys out, and even a shirt that smells like you. If you have rambunctious pets, remove obvious hazards like plants. In other words, child proof your house! With a little analysis of your pet, your home, and your finances you About the Author: Alberta Frost is a long time Alexandria resident and volunteer at King Street Cats. She admits to letting her cats Beau and Mickey think they are in charge.

PETS

OF THE MONTH

4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 703-746-4774 alexandriaanimals.org Mon-Fri, 1-8 pm Closed Wed Sat & Sun, 12-5 pm

AGGIE & CHLOE

4-year-old pug mix Chloe and her best friend, 10-year-old hound mix Aggie, are best buds looking to find their family...together. But don’t worry, you won’t feel like a third wheel with this dynamic duo; they love their human friends and will be climbing all over themselves - and you - to see who can get the most snuggles! Learn more at AlexandriaAnimals. org/Adopt-By-Appointment.

MICKEY

Looking for a little guy with a BIG personality? Look no further Mickey! This 9-year-old Chihuahua mix is technically a senior, but don’t let him hear you say that. He’s got a pep in his step that can only be matched by his cuddling capabilities. Lapdog alert! Learn more at AlexandriaAnimals.org/Adopt-ByAppointment.

FRANKIE

The award for best head tilts goes to...Frankie! At 70+ pounds, this American bulldog mix may seem like a tough guy, but we have it on good authority that he’s just a big marshmallow! He’s been working hard to lose over 20 pounds, and we think he’s looking pretty good. Frankie is currently enjoying a stay with one of the AWLA’s amazing foster families, so to learn more about Frankie and schedule time to meet him, please email adopt@alexandriaanimals.org or call 703.746.4774.

Adopt by appointment at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. Virtual and in-person appointments are available at AlexandriaAnimals.org/Adopt-By-Appointment.