How much for a cat sitter?

[ntburns22]

We moved into a rural area last year and I have not found a vet here yet. So I asked the only family we know here where they took their pets because I needed to board our cat for the week. She said it is such a waste of money and offered to come over to check on our cat. I offered to pay her what the boarding would cost and she said I didn't need too. I thought I would get them a gift certificate to a local resturant for dinner with a little note saying I would watch the kids. I don't know how much. I think if it was too much they wouldn't take it or be offended.

 

[100AcreWood]

Pet sitting is usually $15 per visit. So I would offer her a $50 gift certificate. That would cover a nice meal.

 

[ADisneyQueen]

My cat sitter comes every other day when we're and I give her $5 per visit. She is a young teen and a neighbor. Before we moved here I gave my friend a gift certificate to a fresh foodmarket/grocery store for the same amount for cat sitting ( we were gone about 20 days so I gave her $50). I usually give a cheap thank you card too.

 

[horseshowmom]

I agree with the $50 gift certificate for a nice dinner but since I also live in a rural area, I know that the options can be limited. If you are really concerned that the amount might make them uncomfortable, have you thought of fixing them a nice gift basket? My DD does this all the time.

You can buy a cheap basket (or be creative with a container - silver dishpan, flower pot, etc.) at Wal-Mart (or whatever) and fill it with chocolates or anything that interests them (sewing basket, gardening basket, etc.). One of her favorites to make is a "Bath Basket". She puts nice bubble bath, gel, bath pillow, scrubbies, etc. (use your imagination as to what you would like yourself). You can get things at Dollar Tree, Wal-Mart, or something more upscale (Bath and Body Works) - whatever works for you.