What do pet sitters do?

Sometimes, we at TrustedHousesitters just need to see the wood for the trees (the floof on the fluff) and appreciate we should explain a few fundamental things. Namely, what do pet sitters do? What’s all the hype around pet sitter duties? Why should you as pet parents understand more about pet sitter work and what exactly are the benefits of finding or hiring a pet sitter?

Let’s unwrap exactly what pet sitters do and the types of pet sitter responsibilities they should have. We can also learn why finding a trusted pet sitter is the more paw-some thing for you and your pet.

What is a pet sitter?

As much as we pet parents wish we could be around our furbabies 24/7, alas, sometimes we have to be away from home for a night or two. Heck, we all need a vacation eventually, so what do you do with your precious pet? Well, rather than spend time, money, and stress looking for an animal boarding facility, why keep your pet happily at home with an animal lover who can care for them?

Simple, right? An at-home pet sitter provides safety and security for your pet and your home without payment and without extra stress.  

What do pet sitters do?

Being a pet sitter is a super versatile role and it’ll differ from home to home. Pet parents of aquariums may be seeking a house sitter who knows all about fish pet sitting services. Others might need a pet sitter to care for their horses or poultry, which can include daily cleaning, exercise, and security checks. Some may simply need a sitter to be there to keep their cat company and stick to their normal routine.

As a pet parent, it’ll be up to you to decide what you’ll need from your sitter. If you have an elderly dog with mobility issues, let them know they still need some exercise, and recommend what you usually do. Perhaps you have a kitty with separation anxiety, your sitter will need to know and understand how best to help.

Keeping your home clean and tidy is also an important part of pet sitter work. While you shouldn’t expect a daily deep clean or to offer full grooming services, they’ll want to respect your home by keeping up with the chores. Basically, pet sitting ain’t for the faint-hearted! It can be hard work and require daily dedication, which sitters know about when they sign up.

Advantages of at-home pet sitting

Hmm, where to start!? Well, first off, pets are happiest at home - and vets agree. Of course, they’ll miss you (no one can replace you!), but at least they’ll be surrounded by the familiar smells and comforts of home. No stressful journeys, no long stays in strange environments, and no kennel fees. Your sitter will provide in-home round-the-clock care and love until you’re back home.

As well as benefitting your pet, it’s also an opportunity for you to meet other like-minded people. Bond with fellow animal lovers and make new friends for life. What’s more, by giving enough time between when you post and your vacation, the more likely you are to find a suitable sitter who you can connect with. This will give you extra time to let me know their pet sitter responsibilities, familiarize themselves with your pet and your home, and help them settle in for a successful sit.

This should help you to travel with peace of mind, no matter where it is you need to go. Your sitter can send you live updates on how your pet is doing, reassure you everything is fine, and let you focus on what you have to do.

Not a member yet but need a pet sitter? Check out all of our verified pet-loving sitters who could be the paw-fect purr-son to take care of your precious pet. Keen to learn more? Look at our different membership options and become part of our global pet-loving community!