Q:  I’m planning a vacation and will be leaving my dog at home. What are the advantages of hiring a pet sitter?

A: Perhaps the biggest advantage for hiring a pet sitter is peace of mind. When you have a licensed and insured professional in your home you know your furry, feathery or scaly friend will be taken care of; what’s more, you’ll have someone looking after your home as well. There are so many things that can happen to (and in) your home while you’re away; nothing would ruin a vacation more than coming home to a disaster that not only hurt your home but caused harm to your pet. A trusted pet sitter is just like having a friend come into your home and take care of all the things in your daily routine.

—Josiah Ferguson, Owner

Priceless Pet Sitting

3511 Meder Road, Shingle Springs

530-350-8980, pricelesspetsitting.com

Q: Since the beginning of my pregnancy my vision has become slightly blurry. Is this something I should worry about?

A: Though visual disturbances are rare during pregnancy, the most common underlying condition is known as “gestational diabetes” where the blood sugar level of the pregnant mother rises. Blood sugar levels should be monitored closely during pregnancy. The good news is that most visual disturbances are temporary, and vision returns to normal shortly after birth. 

—Shawn McDonald, OD

2802 Mallard Lane, Placerville 

530-626-8440, drmcdonald.com