Just posting my two cents....

I, as well, would not ask the vet tech. There are always pet sitters available, all you have to do is interview for the right fit. That's what we just recently did, as we had to find a new one, and Vicky has been great. The charge, per visit, is $15 and I have her come in twice a day while we're gone. They keep a key on file, so they're available any time, and they'll do other services as well (water plants, take the trash up the drive, bring in the mail...). They even have a $10 service to come let you in your house if you lose your house key! They're bonded/insured, too.

You'll find the right one, don't worry, and it's a load off your mind when you do. Relying on friends and neighbors, to me, becomes a nuisance for the other people, as we do travel a bit, so I didn't want it to become an issue.

The vet is another story - I think he's just a jerk.

Good Luck in your search!