Little Furry Pets - Pet Sitting in UK: Everything You Need To Know About Pet Sitters

Posted on 17 December, 2020

Photo by Sandy Millar on Unsplash

Written by Little Furry Pets

Your pets are your world… we can relate; they’re ours too!

But, sadly, sometimes you have to travel, and you can’t bring them along with you…

Regardless of whether you visit old friends, travel to an exotic location far from the United Kingdom, or just go on a business trip — taking your dog, cat, or small animal would be incredibly stressful!

The support of a pet sitter comes in real handy:

They take great care of your furry friends so that you can have peace of mind and a great trip!

You probably have a million questions running through your mind right now. But don’t worry; this article will cover all the essential points to think about when it comes to pet sitters.

Photo by William Daigneault on Unsplash

What Does a Pet Sitter Do?

Professional pet sitters (also commonly called dog sitters) care for your pets in the comfort of your own house. They’re essentially a substitute pet owner that tags in when you’re away!

They either come around several times a day to check on your pet, or they stay full-time in your home as house sitters.

Deciding to have someone come to your house, rather than taking your pets to a boarding ‘hotel,’ is a great choice! It reduces the stress felt by animals, and it doesn’t ruin their daily routines. This is a massive advantage for all types of pets: dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and even hamsters!

Note for Home Owners:

Are you a bit uncomfortable with a pet sitter that also house sits?

We get it, and we have good news!

Many people are willing to pick up your pet and then care for them in their own home — a kind of super personalized boarding experience!

Benefits of Pet Sitting

Would it not be great if all pets were as independent as this little rabbit?

You wouldn’t have to find a pet sitter or worry about pet care, walking your dog, or even doing the shop!

But back to the real world:

Pet sitters are fundamental for keeping your animals happy and healthy when you’re gone!

This is how they help pet owners:

  • Professional sitters are trained and experienced to deal with all situations — they won’t panic in case of emergencies, i.e., taking an old cat to the vet!
  • They reduce travel trauma and stress.
  • Sitters love animals, and your pet will make a new friend!
  • They know how to properly feed and medicate (if necessary) your dogs, cats, and small animals.
  • A sitter eliminates the need to rely on untrained (and often unwilling) friends and family. And they won’t complain even if they have to look after your pet for many days!
  • They can also help out with the house sitting.
  • A dependable sitter will free your mind from constantly worrying about your pet and your house.

How To Find a Pet Sitter in the UK?

Hopefully, by now, you’re convinced that a pet sitter is the way to go!

But how can you find a pet sitter in London or elsewhere in the United Kingdom?

Here’s what we usually do:

  • Ask friends and family — it’s the simplest way to find a good sitter that’s trustworthy enough to stay over in your home!
  • Check local billboards and United Kingdom-based social media groups.
  • Use a pet care website (i.e., www.homesitters.co.uk) — super easy in big cities like London or Manchester!

Photo by Misha Walker on Unsplash

What To Look for in a Professional Sitter?

Don’t go out and hire random people to be your sitter!

Here’s a list of questions you should ask when interviewing potential candidates and deciding on the right one:

  • Do they have any professional training?
  • Are they insured?
  • Do they have a license from the local council? Sitters need one if they’ll be looking after your pet in their home and not yours.
  • Can the sitter provide you with a DBS check? Better safe than sorry if you’re planning to have house sitters stay over!
  • Does your pet get along well with them during the first visit?
  • Can you find or get your hands on some testimonials from their past clients?
  • And, of course, are they free during the days you’ll be away?

Only book a sitter if you’re happy with the answers you get to these questions!

What Do Pet Sitters Need To Know Before You Leave?

Preparing for your sitter to arrive should become a regular part of your travel routine.

We suggest pet owners prepare a little book or folder that contains all the most important information about their fluffy friend. This will make the sitter’s life easier and help save time in case there’s an emergency.

Remember to tell your pet sitter:

  • The details of your pet’s registered veterinary practice
  • Whether your pet has any medical conditions, dietary requirements, or allergies
  • All the details about your pet’s routines and preferred walking routes
  • Important information about your house (if they’re house-sitting)
  • Your pet’s feeding schedule and usual portion sizes
  • The name and number of an extra emergency contact that lives close to your house

Summing up Our Short Guide To Pet Sitters

You have all the knowledge to hire your first-ever pet sitter — forget about pet boarding!

Just follow our tips and pick a highly recommended sitter that has plenty of experience looking after animals!

Your pets will receive great care (just like this cat), and they won’t miss you quite as much…

And your days away from home will be stress-free!

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