If you plan to leave town and hire a pet sitter to care for your bird, be ready to ask some questions. Does she carry commercial liability insurance? Does she have experience in handling and caring for birds? Does she own a bird herself? Is the sitter a member of a professional association? How long has she been in business? Does the sitter provide references? What is the sitter's training background? How extensive is her knowledge of avian medical problems? Does the sitter have a backup plan if he or she is unable to make it to your house?

For more information, please read Getting a Pet Sitter For Your Bird.