March
Professional Pet Sitters Week
Professional Pet Sitters Week occurs during the first full week of March, a time dedicated to honoring the amazing work that pet sitters do. For many families, pets are not just animals; they are beloved members of the household. Therefore, when pet owners are away for work or travel, hiring a pet sitter is the best way to ensure that their furry friends receive the care and attention they deserve. This vital role has evolved into a career that truly deserves recognition.
The inception of Professional Pet Sitters Week dates back to 1995, initiated by Pet Sitters International. This week-long observance aims to celebrate those who provide professional pet care, inform pet owners about the benefits of in-home pet care, and inspire aspiring pet lovers to consider pet sitting as a fulfilling career path. Over the years, pet sitting has grown into a respected profession, and its popularity is on the rise as more pet owners recognize the value of professional assistance in caring for their pets.
However, the journey to this recognition wasn’t always smooth. Patti J. Moran, who started her pet-sitting business in 1983, faced challenges in gaining acceptance from insurance companies and the public. Driven by her passion, she persevered and, in 1987, authored “Pet Sitting for Profit,” a guidebook that would later help professional pet sitters. Over the next several years, her efforts helped unite pet sitters and garner public support, leading to the establishment of Pet Sitters International in 1994. Since then, this organization has continued to offer valuable resources to pet sitters and those interested in entering this rewarding field.
Each year, the first week of March is set aside to celebrate advancements in the pet sitting industry, not just in the U.S. but globally. It’s also a time when pet sitters receive helpful kits and tips to enhance their services. Moran’s contributions to the industry have earned her multiple awards, recognizing her dedication and influence.
Here’s a brief timeline of key events in the pet sitting world:
- 1983: Moran starts her pet-sitting venture in North Carolina.
- 1989: She successfully unites pet sitters under a non-profit association.
- 1994: The birth of Pet Sitters International, founded by Moran.
- 1995: The launch of National Professional Pet Sitters Week by Pet Sitters International.
If you’re curious about professional pet sitting, here are some frequently asked questions:
- Why hire a professional pet sitter? They are trained to meet your pet’s needs whenever you’re away.
- Where do pet sitters typically work? They can either care for your pets in your home or take them to theirs.
- What do you need to become a pet sitter? A love for pets is essential, along with appropriate training available through reputable sources online.
During Professional Pet Sitters Week, here are some ways to show appreciation:
- Thank your pet sitter: Send them a heartfelt card or a small gift to express your gratitude.
- Consider a career in pet sitting: If you adore pets and enjoy caring for them, this could be an excellent career path for you, with training options readily available on the internet.
- Support pet sitters: Ensure they’re compensated fairly and help spread the word about the importance of their profession.
Here are some notable facts about pet sitting:
- 17 million assignments: Pet Sitters International reported that its members completed 17 million assignments in 2015.
- High revenue: The same organization noted a revenue of $391 million in 2015.
- Personalized care: Pet sitting offers a more tailored experience compared to traditional kenneling or boarding.
- Dictionary inclusion: The term “pet sitting” was added to the Random House Dictionary in 1997.
- Accessible training: Organizations like the Red Cross provide training for aspiring pet sitters.
Why do we cherish Professional Pet Sitters Week?
- Recognition for hard work: As a pet owner, you know how challenging it can be to care for your furry friend. This week, we celebrate those who help us with that responsibility.
- A focus on pets: While we honor the sitters, the week is equally about our pets, as they are the reason this profession exists.
- Educational opportunities: During this week, training materials and kits are made available for both established sitters and newcomers eager to enter the field.
Mark your calendars for the upcoming dates of Professional Pet Sitters Week:
- 2022: March 6 (Sunday)
- 2023: March 5 (Sunday)
- 2024: March 3 (Sunday)
- 2025: March 2 (Sunday)
- 2026: March 1 (Sunday)
For more information, you can visit https://findnomore.net.
What is the date of Professional Pet Sitters Week every year?
