Pet Sitter vs Pet Boarding

Warmer days are here and that means one thing, the holiday season is fast approaching. Whether you’re planning on going away for a quick trip or an extended period, as a pet owner you want to make sure that your pets are well taken care of in your absence.

The most common solutions are to find a pet sitter near you or consider pet boarding facilities. It’s ideal to prepare for either situation in advance so that the experience isn’t too confusing or stressful for your pet or for you.

Pet Sitter

A pet sitter is hired to come and stay at your home while you’re away. During this time, they will maintain your pet’s regular routine from mealtimes to walks and playtime. One of the advantages of this option is that your pet can remain in a familiar and comfortable environment. Pets thrive on routines, and pet sitting ensures minimal disruption to their daily schedule.

Meet with your sitter in person before your trip and monitor their behaviour with your pet and see if your pet takes a liking to them.

Pet Boarding

Pet boarding spaces are designed for your pet to live in temporarily while you’re out of town. They have full-time staff who are responsible for feeding, exercising, and caring for your pet around the clock. Some large pet boarding facilities even offer swimming pools and grooming services.

Ensure that you tour the facility prior to dropping off your pet.

Things to look out for or questions to ask?

Is the facility clean?

Is there enough space to accommodate your pet?

What kind of menu do they serve?

What exercise activities are available?

With either option – boarding or pet sitting – the most important thing is to prepare your pet for it. This ensures that you will have one less thing to worry about because your pet is familiar with the place and people who are going to be looking after them.

Recommendations from other pet parents are a great place to start if you’re looking for a pet sitting or boarding facility. Get opinions from people you trust and ask them about the places on your shortlist. You could also speak to your vet or social media pet groups for recommendations.

Happy holidays to you and the furry members of your family.