10 reasons for finding a pet sitter when you go away

Feeling guilty about asking friends and family to care for your pets again? Perhaps you’re still using kennels? When you travel, your pets are in much better company at home with TrustedHousesitters.

Through the TrustedHousesitters community, owners can connect with caring sitters willing to step into their shoes and provide their dedicated time, care and company - in exchange for a stay in your home and the chance to spend time with adorable pets just like yours.

Vets agree that pets are much happier at home, so why not join the pet care revolution? Here are 10 reasons to find a house and pet sitter the next time you travel...

1. To reduce pet stress

Out-of-home boarding can be extremely stressful for your pets (and you). It's well-documented that pets are much happier in the familiarity of their own home, and respond much better to a new carer than a new environment.

By inviting a pet sitter to care for your pets, you’ll not only return home to calm and contented animals - you'll also enjoy peace of mind that your furry family members are relaxed and relishing the opportunity to make a new friend whilst you are away.

Take a look at some of the caring sitters that could be looking after your pets by clicking here.

2. To avoid costly kennels and boarding fees

It's no secret that leaving your pet in a kennel - or even hiring a drop-in sitter - can be costly. You could also find it a challenge to secure the ideal kennelling facility locally, plus there are some animals that you just can’t kennel, like chickens!

With an annual membership, you can arrange care from as many Trusted house sitters as you like, for as many trips as you like, who'll provide the same level of love and affection your pet is used to. From dogs and cats to sheep, birds, fish, llamas - you name it - there's a Trusted house sitter for you.

3. To keep your home secure

How exposed is your empty home to burglary? Whether you live in the city, country, or have a home overseas, home security can be an issue if a house is left empty - like when you're away on vacation, for example.

That's the beauty of finding a house and pet sitter - not only will they provide your pets with lots of cuddles and company, but they'll be a visible presence at your home. They'll even take in the post for you!

4. To know your pet is in safe hands

On TrustedHousesitters, all pet sitters are verified, referenced and reviewed. So, from ID and document checks to reading verified reviews from other pet owners, you can rest assured that your sitter will be someone you can trust to provide only the very best care.

And, for extra peace of mind, when you arrange a sit through TrustedHousesitters, you'll be covered by our home & contents protection and sit cancellation insurance, too (Standard and Premium plan only).

5. To keep your garden green

Sadly, garden maintenance is not something that can be put on hold when you travel, and without regular watering, even the most well-cared-for plants can wither and die.

The good news is, most sitters are more than happy to help with some light gardening and water the plants while you're away - all you need to do is ask!

6. Your pet gets to stay in their regular routine

And we all know how much pets love their routine. When you find a pet sitter, their main role - other than round-the-clock cuddles, of course - is to provide dedicated, one-on-one care for your pet, effectively stepping into your shoes.

This means they'll keep up your pet's routine - from their daily walks to their regular dinner time - leaving your pet happy, settled and totally undisrupted.

7. To avoid relying on friends and family

Asking friends and family with requests to look after your home and pets when going away usually means you end up recruiting reluctant help.

A house sitter is often more committed to minding your home and pets while you’re away because they are enjoying the benefit of experiencing a new location and home - not to mention, time spent in the company of a new furry friend.

Meanwhile, you can travel guilt-free and return to a clean house and happy pets.

8. To avoid costly maintenance bills

From burst pipes to an air conditioner breaking down - if your home is occupied by a sitter then any issues that arise will be efficiently dealt with so that you can come home to a fully functioning property, and no maintenance issues to deal with.

9. To enjoy a stress-free trip

From packing your bags to printing off the boarding passes, planning a trip can be hectic!

Finding a pet sitter through TrustedHousesitters couldn't be simpler. You create a listing (with info about your pets, their routine and needs, and your home), add some photos and add the dates you'll be away. Then, our community of sitters will begin to apply, and all you need to do is chat with them and choose your preferred sitter. What could be easier than that?

10. To make new connections

We are a community, after all! The members of TrustedHousesitters are caring, trustworthy, and experienced house and pet sitters from a variety of professional backgrounds. Many are retired professionals keen to look after homes and pets to save on the cost of accommodation when they travel, while some are remote workers who simply enjoy the company of pets and the freedom of travel they get while pet sitting and working from home.

Either way, we're all bonded by a shared passion: pets and travel. So, it's no wonder there are so many friendships made through our platform! Just take a look at some of our recent member stories and see for yourself.

There are many reasons why you should invite a house and pet sitter to step into your shoes while you're away - and this list is just the beginning! Why not sign-up for free now and begin exploring our website and sitter profiles? Then, when you're ready, start your membership and open the door to caring, stress-free pet care and happy pets, guaranteed.

Nowhere is more pet-friendly than your own home. Find your ideal sitter with TrustedHousesitters.