If you're planning a vacation, then you might be wondering, 'How much does a pet sitter cost?' There are different types of pet sitters; some only work with companion animals like cats or dogs. Others may offer extended care to livestock, horses, birds, or exotic pets.
I'm a qualified dog behaviorist and have provided housesitting for some of my clients' pups. It's far less stressful for a pet to stay in the comfort of their own home, even with a pet sitter they do not know. Hiring a pet sitter can also be less expensive than boarding if you have multiple pets.
If you only plan to be away for a day and want to ensure your fur kid gets fed on time, the best automatic pet feeders can provide peace of mind.
To find out how much pet sitting costs and what you should look for in the person, keep on reading.
What is a pet sitter?
A pet sitter cares for your fur baby in your home. They look after clients' pets when they are on vacation, working long hours, traveling for business, in the hospital, or are too unwell to take care of their pets.
A pet sitter feeds your fur kid and ensures a fresh supply of water. They will play with or walk your pet, clean up after them, administer necessary medication, and give cuddles on tap.
A pet sitter may also take care of household chores like taking in the post and newspapers; their presence adds security to your home. You might also want to invest in one of the best pet cameras for extra safety.
A pet sitter may stay overnight or visit your pets if you are away from home for an extended period.
The advantages of hiring a pet sitter are:
- Your pet is not left alone for long periods
- You can maintain regular feeding times
- Your pet is cared for in their own home
- Extra security for the home
The disadvantage of hiring a pet sitter is the expense. However, compared to boarding fees and their service, a pet sitter gives you peace of mind knowing your pet is playing and sleeping at home and not alone in a kennel or cattery.
There's also the added concern of ensuring the pet sitter you hire is experienced and responsible and will care for your pet as lovingly as you do.
How much does a pet sitter cost?
Pet sitting costs vary from state to state and depend on whether you use a professional service or hire a local person. Other factors include services needed, your location, the type of pet, how many, and the level of care they need.
Daily visits to your pet could cost between $10 to $60 per visit. Pet sitters may charge an hourly fee of $12+ or a daily rate of $30+.
House sitting fees range from $50 to $100+ per night. Also, check if the pet sitter charges a fee for taking your pet to the vet in an emergency. Whatever service you choose, clarifying fees for every eventuality is essential.
How to choose a pet sitter
You're trusting your pets with someone you may not know, so choosing the best pet sitter for your fur babies is vital. Here are some things you'll want to consider:
- Level of experience: Does the pet sitter have previous experience with your type of pet? How long have they been pet sitting, and do they have up-to-date testimonials?
- Qualifications: Pet sitters don’t need qualifications, but something like pet behavior or training certification means your sitter has in-depth knowledge.
- Pet first aid certification: Your pet sitter should have a pet first aid qualification to care for your pet in an emergency.
- Background checks: If you use a professional pet sitting service, all pet sitters will have had a background check.
- Insurance: Ask for evidence of insurance coverage.
- Is the pet sitter licensed? Some states require pet sitters to have a license.
- Is the pet sitter happy to meet with you? A face-to-face meeting is preferable so the sitter can meet you and your pets in your home.
- Connecting with your pet: Does your fluffy friend like the pet sitter, and does the person connect with your pet?
- Do they work alongside a vet? Private pet sitters often work on referrals from a vet.
- What level of care do they offer? For example, if you have multiple dogs with different exercise needs, is the sitter prepared to walk them separately? Discuss fees for additional services.
Questions to ask your pet sitter
- What experience do you have with looking after [insert type of pet]?
- Can I contact you while I am away to get check-ins?
- Do you have enough time to care for my pet?
- What made you start working as a pet sitter?
- What do you love about [insert type of pet]?
- Do you have insurance/qualifications?
- Do you have a current pet first aid certificate?
- What would you do if my pet did [insert behavior]?
- Do you have any testimonials from happy customers?
- Do you have any funny stories about pets you've spent time with?
- How much notice would you need if I had to stay away longer than planned?
Not everyone has an outgoing personality. Some people are more comfortable with animals than humans. However, in this meeting, look for empathy, warmth and a genuine love of animals. Additionally, remember that your pet gets a vote, too!
If you're unsure whether you need a pet sitter, check out our features: How long can you leave a dog alone, and how long can you leave a cat alone?
