Leaving your pet behind when you travel or work long hours can be difficult.
You want to know they’re safe, cared for, and happy in your absence.
A professional pet sitter can help with all of that.
Here are five reasons you might want to book a professional instead of relying on home boarders, boarding kennels or favours from friends
1. Keep Your Pet in Their Routine
Pets are creatures of habit.
Most dogs feel safer and calmer when their routine stays the same.
A sudden change in environment—like being placed in a kennel with unfamiliar animals—can lead to stress.
Food schedules, toilet breaks, walks, and sleep routines can all be disrupted.
A pet sitter keeps those routines in place.
By feeding your dog at the usual times.
They walk them in familiar surroundings.
Offering company and reassurance in the comfort of your own home.
It’s far less stressful than dropping your dog off somewhere strange and noisy.
2. Avoid the Risk of Boarding Kennels
Daily rates, holiday surcharges, and extra fees for exercise or medication can add up fast.
There’s also the health risk.
Kennels increase the chance of your dog picking up infections like kennel cough or stomach bugs.
If your dog is nervous around other animals, it may not be a suitable environment.
A professional pet sitter looks after your pet one-on-one.
They provide care, attention, and playtime without exposure to unknown animals.
You also avoid the stress of transporting your dog to and from a kennel, especially if they dislike the car.
3. Add a Layer of Home Security
Leaving your home empty while you’re away can be a concern.
Even if you have friendly neighbours, your property may still appear unoccupied.
Burglars often look for signs like:
- Bins are not being moved
- Post piling up
- Curtains are always closed or open
- No lights switch on in the evening
A pet sitter adds a physical presence to your home.
They come and go at regular times.
They move a post, open the curtains, and walk your dog in and out of the house.
Some will even water plants or put the bins out.
It makes the home look lived-in while giving your pet company.
4. Avoid Asking Friends or Family for Favours
Asking friends or family to look after your dog can seem easy.
But it doesn’t always go to plan.
They may agree out of kindness, not confidence.
They may not follow routines or understand your dog’s behaviour.
And if something comes up—illness, work, or travel—you could be left without care at short notice.
A professional pet sitter is reliable.
It’s their job to show up, follow your instructions, and keep your dog safe.
You won’t feel guilty asking for help.
You can book in advance, discuss your dog’s needs, and trust that everything’s in place.
5. Protect Your House Insurance Policy
Many home insurance policies include conditions around leaving the property empty.
For example, the cover may be reduced or invalid if the house is unoccupied for over 30 days.
In some cases, the limit is even shorter.
Having a pet sitter visit your home can reduce that risk.
Some policies accept regular visits as proof that the home isn’t empty.
It’s worth checking the details in your policy.
Knowing someone is checking in on your home and your dog gives you extra peace of mind.
Finally, take a look at the RAC holiday tip checklist
What Does a Professional Pet Sitter Do?
A professional pet sitter doesn’t just pop in to feed your dog.
They often:
- Stick to your routine as closely as possible
- Walk your dog, play with them, and offer company
- Keep your home tidy and secure
- Send updates or photos while you’re away
- Act quickly if something goes wrong
Some stay overnight.
Some provide multiple visits each day.
Some offer add-ons like plant watering or security checks.
You can discuss your needs and find the right fit.
My Approach to Pet Sitting
When you hire me to pet/house sit, I will come to your home and meet your pets before the first visit at the start of the house sitting and let your dog meet me there in time.
During the stay, I will feed and walk your dog and provide enrichment, company, and one-to-one attention, which they would not get at a home boarder or kennel, and, where possible, stick to their routine.
Finally, you will receive regular updates via WhatsApp so you know everything is ok
So, whether you’re away for a weekend or a few weeks, I’ll make sure your dog is safe, relaxed, and cared for.
When Should You Book a Pet Sitter?
You might want a professional pet sitter if:
- You’re going away for a holiday or a weekend break
- You work long shifts and want your dog checked on
- You don’t want to use a kennel
- You’ve asked friends and family too often
- You want someone reliable who understands dogs
- You want your home to look lived-in while you’re away
Booking early is best, especially in busy periods like school holidays or Christmas.
Many pet sitters get booked up well in advance. If you are looking for a One-to-One Dog walker, pet sitter, or games-based trainer, please check out our services or contact us. I also offer cat sitting.
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