Home Security: Professional Petsitters Can Help
Many people who live along Colorado’s Front Range are used to worrying very little about their home’s security, even when they are out of town. Many Coloradoans, particularly in less urban areas, believe that there’s no need to lock their doors when they are working in the back yard or even when they leave the house. Unfortunately, there have been several incidents in the last few months that indicate that can be a dangerous assumption.
Since a professional petsitter visits homes when their owners are away (often at somewhat irregular times), we are very aware of the potential problems with home security. There are several things that can easily be done to help ensure that your home is secure when you are away.
Research has shown that having a dog in the home is a prime deterrent to most professional thieves. Having the dog remain in your home when you are gone will help provide security for your home and possessions. A professional petsitter (make sure that they are bonded and insured) may be available to stay at your home overnight. This way, not only will your pets have someone to sleep with, but it also ensures that your home looks “lived in” even when you are away.
I f you don’t choose to have someone stay in your home, we generally recommend a couple of light timers (in different areas) to help the home look occupied, as well as a radio or two that are set on timers (not on alarm!) so there is sound from the home at irregular times. Of course, you may also choose to install an alarm system from one of the several providers in the area.
In addition, a pet sitter will normally pick up your mail and papers, put out and take in trash, change blinds, make sure all doors are securely locked (it’s surprising how often people forget to lock the back door!) and ensure that the house, generally, is in good shape. As colder weather approaches, we are also in the home on a regular basis to be sure that pipes haven’t burst, the furnace hasn’t quit, the wind hasn’t blown out a window, and an animal hasn’t “popped” out a screen or window (all of which we have handled for our clients). It’s also a good idea to make sure that someone will be shoveling your walk and drive in your absence.
If you are concerned about the security of your home, consider using a professional petsitter to check in on your home and your pets, whether you have a long day at work, want to go skiing for the day, or have a trip planned to another part of the country or the world.
© 2008 Critter Sitters Extraordinaire, LLC
Originally published on InsideLongmont.com
