Pet boarding or pet sitter – Which is the best option for your pets?

When deciding between boarding your pet or hiring a pet sitter, there are several factors to consider.

When you just can’t travel together, whether you use a pet boarding house or hire a pet sitter mostly depends on your pet! But thinking about the differences and thinking about your pet’s preferences will likely make the best option clear.

Of course, where you live can also influence your decision. Hope you have a nice selection of pet sitters and pet boarding options in your area. Otherwise, additional creativity might be required.

The difference between pet boarding and a pet sitter

For years, the only option for pet owners who needed to board their pets was to leave them at the local kennel. But things have changed a lot! Now pet boarding is more like booking a vacation for your furry loved one at a fancy hotel.

Many pet boarding houses these days have comfortable beds, indoor/outdoor runs, and a variety of potential add-ons. Would your cat like a moment of cuddle? Want your pup to spend the day romping around with other dogs? Or maybe he would prefer to play one-on-one? How about a plush treat to occupy him before bedtime? And why not schedule a “spa day” at the end of his stay, so he comes back to you clean and clean? Everything is possible !

It used to be that pet owners who couldn’t leave their pets at the kennel had to beg (and bribe) their friends and family to stay with them. This is also a thing of the past, thanks to professional pet sitters!

Typically, you can choose to have your pet sitter stay with you while you’re away, or drop by to take care of your pets once or twice a day. Hiring a pet sitter allows you to personalize the care your pet receives. For example, if your cat likes to play with a particular toy, or if your dog just wants to chase his ball in the yard, a pet sitter can make it happen!

When pet boarding is better

Some pets do better in boarding, while others prefer to stay at home. It all depends on the animal.

Boarding might be a better choice if your pet is a young one. You’ll know he’s got plenty of bathroom breaks, exercise, and attention. And he will be able to socialize with other dogs, which is a great added benefit.

Boarding is also a better option if you have a very social animal that needs lots of stimulation to stay happy, suffers from separation anxiety, or becomes destructive when you’re away. People have always said “a tired puppy is a good puppy” for a reason! And with all the activity and attention your pet will receive at a boarding house, they may not even notice you’re gone.

Potential Disadvantages of Boarding Your Pet

With so many animals staying in the boarding, the environment can be too stimulating for sensitive or anxious pets. If your dog or cat tends to be anxious in new environments, boarding them may not be the best choice.

Boarded pets must receive certain vaccines. If your pet cannot receive these vaccines, a pet sitter might be a better option. In addition, although the animals are vaccinated before their visit, it is possible that they contract diseases in a pension.

Although kennel staff do their best to gauge the temperament of the animals in their care, fights can break out between animals when they are in the daycare or play areas, even with constant supervision. Therefore, boarding carries a risk of injury if your pet gets into a fight with another pet.

With so many pets in their care, it’s also possible for the pet’s food, toys, and other personal items to get mixed up. Although it rarely causes problems, there could be stomach upset following a change in food.

When pet sitting is better

If you have multiple pets, hiring a pet sitter might be a good choice for your family. Pets that are used to being together may feel more comfortable if they are not separated. And they’ll have each other for company, so they won’t feel so alone.

For cats that do their own thing, even when you’re home, hiring a pet sitter once or twice a day may be all you need.

And pets that prefer a quiet, familiar environment, don’t get along with other pets, or need special attention due to injury or age, may find it less stressful to stay home with. a pet sitter than boarding.

LEARN MORE ⇒ Three important steps to prepare for your pet sitter

Potential Disadvantages of a Pet Sitter

Since your pet sitter will be in your home, it’s important that your pets are okay with this. For animals that protect their space, a pet sitter may not be the best option.

If you want your pet sitter to spend the night, you will have to prepare their stay and clean up after they leave. You will also need to discuss the number of hours they will spend with your pets. And if they are allowed to have visitors in your home.

Finally, getting your pet sitter to stay with your pets can be tricky. Especially if you travel at popular times of the year or like to be spontaneous. Popular pet sitting professionals can be booked months in advance.

other considerations

Weather is another factor to consider when deciding between pet boarding or pet sitting. What if there’s a snowstorm and your babysitter can’t drive to your house? Do you have a backup plan, just in case?

The reputation of the person who will care for your pets is another consideration. Always do your homework. Ask people you know if they can recommend a boarding school or babysitter they trust. Then check review sites and social media to see what others are saying.

Whether you decide to hire a pet sitter or have your pets stay at a boarding house, you’ll enjoy your trip more knowing they’re in good hands.

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