Are you going out of town and unable to bring your pet? Whether for a day, a week, or a month, your beloved family member will need care, and finding someone you trust can leave you confident and reassured during your trip. Most people will choose between pet sitting and pet boarding. Both can be viable options, but the best choice for you will depend on your specific situation, goals, and your pet’s temperament.
Pet sitting and pet boarding are similar in some ways, but they differ in important areas that could significantly impact your pet. Understanding the difference is important for keeping your furry friend healthy and happy while you are gone.
Here are a few angles to consider that will help you make an informed decision.
Pet Sitting: What to Expect
If you are considering pet sitting, you will need to allow someone to enter your home. A pet sitter comes to you, rather than you bringing your pet to them. Not everyone is comfortable with letting a person into their house while they are not present, but for others, the reassurance that their pet is safe at home where they are most comfortable is invaluable. Many people prefer pet sitters because:
- The pet can stay at home, where they feel safe and calm
- There is no need to stress about drop-off and pick-up times or rules
- No other dogs will hassle or bully your pet
- They can sleep whenever they want and wherever they are most comfortable
- They can follow a food schedule you choose
- Pet sitting is often more affordable than other options
- Your home looks like someone is still there, which can deter home invaders while you are gone
These elements make pet sitting appealing to many people, which is why people typically opt for this choice. However, to understand the full picture, you should also know what goes into pet boarding.
What Pet Boarding Looks Like
If you board your animal, you will be taking them to a separate facility where they will stay until you return. Pet boarding centers have multiple staff members who are in charge of monitoring your dog daily and keeping them on a regular schedule. You can rest assured that a reputable boarding location has policies and precautions in place to protect the animals under their care. They have vaccine requirements to prevent the spread of diseases and high fences to keep pups from escaping.
People who prefer pet boarding usually do so because:
Their pet likes structure- They want to make sure someone is nearby at all times
- Their dog loves to socialize with other dogs
- They cannot trust their pet at home alone and do not want to keep them in a crate all day between visits from the sitter
- It does not require anyone to come into your home
If boarding is something you may want to consider, you will need to find a facility near you that addresses your specific needs.
Which One Is Better?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer for the question of whether boarding or hiring a pet sitter is best. In the end, many people prefer not to go with boarding facilities due to a variety of concerns and considerations:
- Boarding can be more expensive, especially if you are gone for long periods
- Dogs can become stressed at a boarding facility, whether due to the new and unfamiliar environment or the consistent exposure to other loud, rowdy, or overly social pets
- Injuries are more common because pets might get into disagreements
- Your pet might develop harmful behaviors, such as compulsive licking or chewing on oneself, as a method to cope with the stress of boarding (or as a response to the boarding facility itself, such as irritation from the type of floor cleaner used)
- Other pets, new food, and more variables can leave your pet ill
- Transporting your pet can be a hassle
- If your trip is delayed, you will need to worry about missing your scheduled pick-up time
When you are considering whether pet sitting or pet boarding is right in your situation, think about your pet’s temperament. Are they social or withdrawn? Nervous or outgoing? Also consider their routines. If they struggle to thrive with a highly structured life, boarding may not be right for them. The good news is that a pet sitter can be a flexible and affordable choice!
Try a Pet Sitter to Experiment with Options
If you are considering pet sitting, understand that the team you choose matters. Great pet sitters are trained in pet CPR, can administer medications, and will work directly with you to create a visitation plan that meets your pet’s needs. You get to set the feeding schedule, and your dog can enjoy customized playtime with their favorite toys.
Contact Paw Pals to see how we can provide options for your pet to have the time of their life while you are away!
