Kennels and Catteries or pet sitters

I thought this would be an interesting post for anyone who is on the fence about whether to use a pet sitter / boarder or a kennels / cattery.
You are probably thinking that I am biased because I run a pet sitting business - well actually not so.  I believe that both types of establishments have their their place as individual pets have individual requirements.
Here are a few things you might find helpful in making your decision:

Your Pet's Behaviour & Temperament

If you had to sum your pet up in a few words how would you do it?  Active? Aggressive?  Insecure? Pampered?
Your pets personality goes a long way towards determining how he or she will cope with any type of new environment.  For example if your dog is happy-go-lucky and totally up for anything than its entirely possible that he will adjust well to a boarding kennel as well as boarding in someone else's home.
If on the other hand pooch or puss is insecure and nervous the chances are that you will trigger a sense of abandonment by leaving him in a kennels/cattery.  It's worth mentioning here that to some degree this will still be an issue when leaving him with a pet sitter/boarder but a big bonus to using a pet sitter is that your dog will be able to meet and get acquainted with the individual before his actual "holiday".  This makes a huge difference to how well your dog adjusts to the change in environment and carer.
If your dog has difficulties with house training or is prone to destructive behaviour than its realistic to expect that a pet sitter will not accept him into their home.  Therefore in such an instance a boarding kennel may be your only option aside from cancelling your holiday or taking your dog with you (unless you have a trusty relative you can leave him with).  You should expect to be asked about your dogs behaviour by a potential pet sitter.
Aggressive dogs or dogs who have issues with children or other pets may also be better suited to a boarding kennels because although they will be next door to other dogs they will not be a threat.  It's usually the case that a pet sitter will not have multiple dogs from different owners staying with them at the same time as yours but its likely they will have their own pets or children.  Even if they dont make a habit of mixing the two together its possible they will not want to risk any injury.  Therefore you should not expect a pet boarder or sitter to look after an aggressive dog.
For dogs that love comfort and cuddles then a pet sitter is the ideal choice as attention and home comforts are in generous supply :)

Your Peace Of Mind

The decision about who to leave your pet with when you are out of town is not just about how your precious companion will cope - its about how you feel about things too.
Just because your dog is comfortable in a boarding kennel does not mean you will be!
Better to pay a little more for a pet sitter and enjoy peace of mind whilst on your holidays than spend your entire vacation worrying about what your pet is doing.
Another plus to pet sitters is that they will be happy to keep in touch with you via text, email and sometimes facebook so that you can see photos of how your baby is doing.  This is a big plus for anxious owners!

Price

Budget certainly comes into play when it comes to choosing where your pet should go.
Boarding kennels and catteries are generally pretty cost effective and so if you are on a tight budget than this would be your best option.
Pet sitters and boarders are generally quite a bit more expensive - you should expect this as you are paying for what is essentially a luxury service.
Whatever your choice it could be worth setting aside a little money each week so that when the time for your holiday comes you have the funds ready.  You should also expect to pay a deposit to secure your booking.

Dispelling The Myths

Some owners have heard horror stories about kennels and catteries and whilst its true that some pets have had bad experiences  - the majority of establishments are excellent.
Gone are the days of damp, old wooden kennels with grubby bedding.  Most kennels / catteries are now spacious, heated and comfortable - as well as clean.
Some people also think that their dog will be neglected whilst in a boarding kennels.  Whilst its true that they probably wont have as much undivided attention as they would at home (if you are an owner who spends a lot of time with your dog or cat), they are given plenty of exercise - usually either in a secure play area where they can socialize and have a romp with other dogs, or by being taken for several walks per day.
If you are concerned and really want to know what its like then you should try visiting the boarding kennels unexpectedly.  Additionally you could search online for reviews and speak to owners who have used the establishment.

Pros Of Kennels & Catteries

Cost effective
Safe
Usually have availability
Good for dogs with behavioural issues

Pros Of Pet Sitters & Boarders

Luxury service
Regular updates & photos
More attention
Ideal for older or more needy pets