Paula Rando, founder of PJ’s Pet Connection, spent years working with animals; including work at the MSPCA in Jamaica Plain and years of volunteer work at the Animal Rescue League of Boston ministering to the most neglected and abused dogs. She has also spent time professionally training dogs. Paula is presently on the Board of Directors of the AKC registered Beagle Field Trial Club in Masfield, MA.

Paula was a pioneer in Daily Doggie Play Group. She opened up PJ’s Pet Connection in 1991 in order to make the lives of her own community’s dogs, and their owners happier.

We at PJ’s Pet Connection have developed the following checklist to help insure that you find the best care for your pet.

1. Remember, your pet can not talk. Make sure that whoever you trust in your dog’s care genuinely loves animals. Otherwise, your pet could be mistreated. It takes the patience that comes with a genuine interest in an animal’s welfare to handle groups of dogs all day; everyday. Likewise, it takes compassion for animals to insure that your pet sitter will show up for each and every visit to your cat or other pet while you are away. If a company has no previous interest or experience in animal care, that should speak volumes about their intent and ability in caring for your pet.
2. Does the company do a thorough back ground check on any person that they trust with the care of your pet and access to your home? Do they make sure that the people transporting your dog to a park have a perfect driving record?
3. How far are they traveling with your dog? If you are charged for an hour at the park, be sure that the hour is at the park and not spent driving around.
4. How many dogs does the company take out at one time? We have learned from 15 years of experience that too many dogs running loose at one time is asking for serious trouble.
5. Does the company have plenty of good references?
6. Is the company bonded, licensed? and insured?
7. Is the company a member of Pet Sitters International or Knapp?