Pet Sitter or Kennel?

This is a question that I've thought about because as a person that has been a dog sitter and a person who has taken dogs to kennels it makes me wonder what would be better. I think it's better to have someone whom you know and trust take care of your dog, but what about if you don't have anyone in your life willing to do that? The kennel then is your only option especially if you need to be out of town often at the moment for your job or for a family emergency and need a reliable, consistent option.
Here are some pros and cons I found to kennels and dog sitters:

The Disadvantages of a Boarding Your Dog at a Kennel
Dogs who are not used to long trips in a vehicle may be stressed by the experience. They may become carsick or anxious, and make the trip difficult. Pets who are not experienced travelers may appreciate being left in a kennel where they receive supervision and attention.Dogs with health problems, or older dogs, may find the ride too physically taxing. When left with a reputable boarding kennel, your dog's health can be monitored by the staff. The staff is not trained to diagnose illness or prescribe medications, but may call a veterinarian if they think one is needed.Reputable boarding kennels are designed to keep escape artists secure. If your pet gets away from you on a long trip, it can delay your journey. Even if your dog is wearing tags he may become injured or lost in a strange area. By leaving your dog in a reputable boarding kennel, you are ensuring his safety. Plus, you don't have anyone you don't know coming into your house (assuming you might have had to hire a dog sitting company and they would be coming into your home instead of having a friend do it).

The Disadvantages of Boarding Your Dog at a Kennel
Dogs who spend most of their time in their own home may become anxious when they are in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar people, scents, and sounds. A change in daily routine may cause undue stress to a nervous dog. He may refuse to eat or play while he is boarded.A boarding kennel may expose your pet to microorganisms that cause health problems. Kennel cough is so named because it is easily transferred from one animal to another in close quarters. A stressed dog will have a lowered immune response, making him even more susceptible to viruses and other illnesses. You have to make sure your dog's immunizations are current before leaving him in a boarding kennel.

The Advantages of a Pet Sitter
You have someone checking your house, getting your mail and making your home looked "lived in". You can sometimes find someone who is willing to stay at your home if you desire this level of service. A pet sitter that stays at your home is sure to give your pets plenty of attention. However, you have to find the right person. Office and technical staff at veteranary clinics can make good candidates for this job. They are animal-people and are trained to detect medical problems should they arise. Your dog is in his own environment which is generally less stressful. Your dog will eat his own food and have his own routine. A change of food or an addition of treats can sometimes induce gastrointestinal upset.

The Disadvantages of a Pet Sitter
You are opening your home and pets to one person that you need to trust. If you choose the wrong person –it is possible they could have friends over to your home. You need to choose the right person – one that you trust. Regardless if whether you choose a kennel or pet sitter - make sure you provide clear instruction on what food your dog should be fed and any required medications. A good pet sitter should walk and play with the dogs several times a day. Give clear instructions on what you expect of his activity, playtime and interaction with other dogs. Also, ensure that you provide good contact information in both instances in the case of an emergency. So basically the only con to having a pet sitter is that if you don't pick someone you trust then your dog would be better off in a kennel because they could be neglected more so by the sitter and you could have the piece of mind knowing that your house and dog are okay while you're gone.

As a side note, my boyfriend's family takes Gabby to a really great kennel that have video cameras set up everywhere so at any time while you are away you can sign online and watch your dog :) We watched her playing with the other dogs and it was just really cool. It's also a nice way for the kennel to be accountable and credible becuase they have nothing to hide.

Here are some more articles with info: Pet Sitter or Kennel? or How to choose the right pet sitter or kennel.