Say Goodbye to Home Alone – A Guide to Pet Sitting

by Dr. Liza Cahn

Jun 8, 2023

Updated: Jul 17, 23

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an overseas adventure, traveling can pose unique challenges to pet parents. Ensuring that your pet is well cared for while you’re away is a paramount concern. This article will guide you through the various options, weighing the pros and cons of each, and provide tips on how to find the most suitable choice for you and your furry family member.

Pet Care Options

Pet Sitter or House Sitter

Pet or house sitting involves a person coming to or staying at your home to take care of your pets while you’re away. The main advantages of this option include that your pet can remain in the comfort of their own environment, maintain their daily routine, and receive individualized attention. Your house will also look lived in. The challenge lies in finding a trustworthy sitter who respects your home and takes great care of your pet. As many people pet sit as a side job or have multiple clients, be sure to discuss how much time they will spend in your home with your pet.

To find the right sitter, start by seeking recommendations from fellow pet owners and vet clinics, do an internet search for local pet sitting services, or use reputable sites such as care.com or rover.com. Be sure to check online reviews and qualifications (such as training in pet first aid), conduct interviews, and reach out to their references. A home visit is also essential so that the sitter can meet you and your pet. If you opt to choose an individual instead of a pet-sitting service, be sure to have a contract in place and check to see if they are licensed, insured, and bonded.

The price of pet sitting or house sitting can range based on the sitter’s experience level, the amount of time and care that your pet requires, and your location. If you only need someone to stop by the house once a day, the cost will be significantly less than if someone is spending the night there, which may range from $30 to over $100 per day.

Pet Boarding

Pet boarding facilities provide a place for your pet to stay where they are cared for by professionals. The main advantage is the professional care your pet will receive, including medical care if necessary. Some vet clinics also offer pet boarding for clients. You could also look into a pet hotel or resort, which may have doggy daycare where your pup can get plenty of exercise and socialize with other dogs during the day. If you choose this option, a temperament test and trial visit will be necessary. Most facilities also have requirements that your pet be up to date on vaccines and wellness care. It is also important to discuss the level of supervision, how often dogs are let out during the day, where the animals sleep at night, what you need to bring for your pet, and if there are staff present after hours. For some pets, the change in environment and routine may cause additional stress. There is also a risk of disease transmission or injury even in well-managed facilities.

Again costs can vary widely but expect to pay around $50 to $100+ per night. To ensure you choose a quality boarding facility ask for recommendations, take a tour, and make sure that they have good reviews and relevant accreditations.

In-home Boarding

In-home boarding is a mix between pet sitting and traditional boarding and involves boarding your pet in someone else’s home. This provides a homey and comforting environment with individualized care. Be sure to visit in person, discuss qualifications, whether other pets will be present, and how many hours the caregiver will devote to your pet per day. Cost will likely be less than a professional boarding facility.

Traveling With Your Pet

Bringing your pet along on your travels can be an exciting option; however it requires extensive research and planning. You will need to take into account pet-friendly accommodations, travel restrictions such as health certificates and other requirements for air travel, and the stress of travel on your pet. Most pets will be happier to be left at home.

Preparing to Leave Your Pet

Whichever option you choose, there are important steps to take before embarking on your travels. Proper preparation can help mitigate potential issues and give you peace of mind while you’re away.

Gather emergency information: Write down your vet’s contact information as well as the details of a 24/7 emergency vet clinic near your home.. Ensure your pet sitter or care provider has this information readily available.
Medication and health information: If your pet takes any medications, provide detailed instructions on the dosage, timing, and method of administration. Also, let the caretaker know if your pet has any medical or behavioral issues.
Contact information: Leave your contact information as well as a backup emergency contact in case you’re unreachable.
Routine and preferences: Document your pet’s daily routine, including feeding times, quantities, walk times, comfort items, and any specific behaviors or preferences your pet may have.
Legal considerations: If you’re hiring a pet sitter, consider drafting an agreement outlining the duties and liabilities involved.
Meet and greet: Arrange a meet and greet or tour of a boarding facility before you leave. This can help your pet adjust and build a rapport with the new caretaker.
Ask for updates: Before you leave, discuss the best way for the caretaker to check in with you and update you on how your pet is doing.

Considerations For Cats vs. Dogs

Whether you have a cat, dog, or multiple pets can help influence your decision regarding the best pet care options while you’re away.

Dogs

Dogs require more attention and stimulation due to their social nature and need to urinate and defecate outdoors.

A pet or house sitter may be a great option for dogs who do not adapt well to new environments or become anxious or aggressive in the presence of other animals. However, most dogs will require more than a couple of daily visits from a sitter, which can increase costs.
For active dogs who enjoy socializing with other animals, a boarding facility that provides ample playtime and exercise can be a great option. For dogs needing mediation or with complex medical issues, boarding at a vet or in the home of an experienced caretaker may be beneficial.

Cats

Cats are usually more independent, less social, and will be more comfortable staying in their home environment.

Most cats will do well with a pet sitter who can visit once or twice a day to provide food, clean the litter box, and offer some social interaction. They often handle their owners’ absence better when they can stay in their home environment.
If you opt to board your cat, look for a cat-only facility that provides private, quiet spaces for cats to retreat.

Multiple pets

For families with multiple pets, it may be easier and most cost-effective to have a sitter stay at your home.

Dr. Liza Cahn

Liza is a veterinarian who graduated from MSU CVM in 2013 and spent five years working in small animal practice. She loved working with dogs and cats and educating owners on all aspects of veterinary medicine, especially animal behavior and dermatology. She has since transitioned to remote work to be able to spend more time at home with her husband, two young kids, and two cats. She is thrilled to be able to combine her passions for veterinary medicine and writing. She is licensed as a veterinarian in Washington State.