House Sitter vs. Dog Boarder: What’s the Best Option for Your Dog?
Table of contents
- House Sitter vs. Dog Boarder: What’s the Best Option for Your Dog?
- What Is a House Sitter?
- What Is a Dog Boarder?
- The Legal Requirement for Dog Boarders
- Key Differences Between House Sitting and Boarding
- When to Choose a House Sitter
- When to Choose a Boarder
- Why Licensing Matters for Boarders—but Not for House Sitters
- Why I Offer House-Sitting Services
- How to Choose the Right Caregiver
- Final Thoughts
When life takes you away from home, finding the right care for your dog is a top priority. Whether it’s a short trip or a more extended holiday, ensuring your dog is safe, comfortable, and well looked after is every pet owner’s goal. Two popular choices are hiring a house sitter or taking your dog to a border. But what’s the difference between the two, and how can you decide which option is best?
This post will explore each option’s key differences, pros and cons, and an essential legal requirement for dog boarders that every owner needs to know. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the proper care for your dog.
What Is a House Sitter?
A house sitter stays in your home while you’re away and looks after your dog in familiar surroundings. This is a fantastic option for dogs who thrive on routine or feel uneasy in new environments.
Benefits of a House Sitter:
- Familiar Environment: Your dog will stay in the comfort of its own home, surrounded by its usual sights, smells, and sounds. This can significantly reduce stress, especially for anxious or elderly dogs.
- Routine Stays the Same: Your dog can stick to its regular routine—the same feeding times, walks, and even favourite sleeping spots.
- Personalised Attention: A house sitter focuses entirely on your dog and their needs, providing one-on-one care.
- Home Security: In addition to caring for your dog, a house sitter can also look after your home, bring in posts and water plants, and generally make your house look occupied.
House sitters are particularly ideal for dogs who don’t enjoy being around other dogs, need special care, or have medical conditions requiring attention.
What Is a Dog Boarder?
A dog boarder looks after your dog in their home, often alongside other dogs. This can feel like a little holiday for your pet, with new spaces to explore and (depending on the border) some social time with other dogs.
Benefits of a Dog Boarder:
- A Change of Scenery: For sociable and adaptable dogs, a stay with a boarder can be an enjoyable adventure.
- Professional Environment: Licensed boarders often have experience handling dogs of various breeds and needs.
- Scheduled Care: Many boarders follow structured routines, so your dog’s day will include plenty of activities like walks, playtime, and rest.
Boarding is a good option for dogs who love being around people and other dogs and aren’t easily stressed by change.
The Legal Requirement for Dog Boarders
One critical thing to know about dog boarding is that it’s a licensed activity in the UK. If someone offers to board dogs in their home, they are legally required to hold a licence from their local council.
Why Is Licensing Important?
- Safety Standards: Licensed boarders undergo inspections to ensure their homes are safe, clean, and suitable for dogs. This includes checks on everything from the size of the space to emergency plans.
- Insurance Compliance: A boarder’s insurance may be invalid without a council licence. This means your dog may not be covered if an accident or emergency occurs.
- Animal Welfare: Licensed boarders must follow strict welfare guidelines, including rules around feeding, exercise, and the maximum number of dogs they can care for.
When choosing a boarder, always ask them to show their licence. If they can’t provide one, it’s a red flag. Boarding without a licence isn’t just illegal—it also means there’s no guarantee your dog will be safe or insured.
Key Differences Between House Sitting and Boarding
While both options can provide excellent care, there are some key differences:
| House Sitter | Dog Boarder |
|---|---|
| Care in your own home | Care in the boarder’s home |
| Dog stays in a familiar environment | New environment for your dog to explore |
| Personalised one-on-one care | May include other dogs in the home |
| No licence required (but insurance is essential) | licence is required, and without a license any insurance is invalid |
| Great for nervous or elderly dogs |
Choosing the right option depends on your dog’s personality, health, and preferences.
When to Choose a House Sitter
A house sitter is the perfect option if:
- Your dog feels stressed or anxious in unfamiliar settings.
- They don’t get along well with other dogs.
- They have medical conditions or specific routines that need close attention.
- You want the added benefit of having someone look after your home while you’re away.
Hiring a house sitter ensures your dog gets dedicated care while avoiding the stress of leaving home.
When to Choose a Boarder
A licensed dog boarder is a great choice if:
- Your dog is friendly and enjoys being around other dogs.
- They adapt well to new environments.
- You’re looking for structured care and activities for your dog while you’re away.
- You’ve confirmed that the boarder holds a valid council licence and insurance.
Why Licensing Matters for Boarders—but Not for House Sitters
Unlike boarders, house sitters do not need a council licence because they care for your dog in your home, not their own. However, insurance is still essential. Always ask a house sitter about their insurance to protect your dog in an emergency.
With bother home boarders and house sitters, it is important to check references where possible
Why I Offer House-Sitting Services
As someone who loves dogs and understands how unique each one is, I’ve chosen to specialise in house sitting. Here’s why:
- Comfort for Your Dog: Dogs are happiest in their own homes, surrounded by familiar sights and smells.
- One-on-One Care: Your dog will have my full attention, and I will ensure that its needs are met exactly as you would at home.
- Peace of Mind for You: Along with caring for your dog, I’ll monitor your home—watering plants, collecting mail, and making sure everything is in order.
If you’re planning a trip and want to ensure your dog is happy, safe, and stress-free, I’d love to help.
How to Choose the Right Caregiver
No matter which option you choose, always ask these key questions:
- Are you licensed (for boarders)?
- Do you have insurance (for both sitters and boarders)?
- What experience do you have with dogs?
- Can I see references or reviews?
- What does a typical day look like for the dogs in your care?
These questions will help you feel confident in your decision and ensure your dog receives the best care possible.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a house sitter and a boarder depends on your dog’s personality, health, and needs. Both options can provide excellent care when chosen carefully. Remember, if you opt for a boarder, always check for a valid council licence to ensure your dog’s safety and insurance coverage.
If you’re looking for personalised, one-to-one care for your dog in the comfort of their own home, I’d love to help. My house-sitting services are designed to make sure your dog is happy, comfortable, and stress-free while you’re away.
📲 Get in touch today to learn more or book your dates! Let’s ensure your dog has the best care possible while you’re away.