The Challenges of Pet Sitting vs Boarding: Best Advice

Which is better, pet sitting vs boarding pets? When pet owners need to be away from home, whether it’s for a vacation, work trip, or other commitments, they often face this tough decision.

Pet sitting and boarding are two options for pet owners when they are away from home. Pet sitting involves hiring a trusted individual to stay in the owner’s home and care for the pets, while boarding involves taking the pets to a specialized facility.

In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of both pet sitting and boarding, helping pet owners make an informed choice that best suits the needs of their furry companions and provides peace of mind during their absence.

Pet Sitting

Pros of Pet Sitting:

Familiar environment:

Pet sitting can reduce stress and anxiety by providing them with a familiar environment and regular sleeping spots, toys, and routines, which can help maintain a sense of security and comfort.

Additionally, pets are less likely to develop separation anxiety when they are in a place they know and feel safe.

Routine maintenance:

Pet sitters play a crucial role in maintaining the regular routines and schedules of pets. They ensure pets are fed, exercised, and given medications, and they provide additional services such as grooming, brushing, and cleaning up.

This attention to detail helps to keep pets healthy. They can follow specific instructions provided by the pet owners, ensuring that the pets’ care is personalized and tailored to their individual needs.

Personalized attention:

House-sat pets receive one-on-one attention and care from the sitter, which can help alleviate boredom, anxiety, and loneliness and ensure the pets are emotionally content during the owner’s absence.

 

 

Unlike in a boarding facility where staff members have multiple pets to attend to, pet sitters can devote their time and energy solely to the pets they are looking after.

Home security:

Pet sitters provide an added layer of home security by monitoring the house, keeping an eye on the surroundings, and collecting mail, newspapers, and packages.

Moreover, their presence can give the house a lived-in appearance, deterring criminals who often target unoccupied properties. This provides peace of mind to pet owners while they are away.

Pet care consistency:

House sitting minimizes the risk of contracting diseases or infections by allowing pets to stay within their own environment, and pet sitters can maintain their hygiene and follow owner instructions.

This ensures that the pets’ care remains consistent and in line with the owner’s preferences and instructions, minimizing any disruptions to their routine.

Cons of Pet Sitting:

Limited availability:

It is important to plan and book pet sitters well in advance to ensure availability and allow sufficient time for the selection process. The process of searching for and vetting potential pet sitters can be time-consuming and requires careful consideration.

Additionally, popular pet sitters may have a busy schedule, making it difficult to secure their services during peak travel seasons or holidays.

Dependency on individuals:

It is important to communicate expectations with potential pet sitters to ensure they understand the pet’s needs and any specific requirements.

Pet sitters are human beings, and their reliability and commitment can vary. While most pet sitters are responsible and dedicated, there is always a small risk of encountering someone who may not fulfill their obligations or may not meet the expectations set by the pet owner.

Cost:

Pet sitting services could be expensive due to personalized care, additional responsibilities, and the exclusivity of their services. It is important to discuss and agree on all financial aspects upfront to avoid misunderstandings.

The intrusion of privacy:

Choose a reputable and trustworthy pet sitter with positive reviews and clear communication to ensure both parties are comfortable and respectful of each other’s privacy.

Allowing someone to live in your home means giving them access to your personal space, which may not be suitable for everyone. While most pet sitters are respectful and discreet, some pet owners may feel uncomfortable with the idea of someone else occupying their living space, using their facilities, or having access to their personal belongings.

Boarding Pets

We know you want to choose the best boarding facility for your pet. Here, we’ll examine both their benefits and drawbacks. 

Pros of Boarding:

Socialization:

Boarding pets provides valuable opportunities for socialization, which can help develop social skills and become more comfortable around other animals.

 

 

Boarding facilities often have dedicated play areas or group activities where pets can engage in supervised social interactions. Socialization can enhance their overall well-being and prevent issues like excessive barking, aggression, or separation anxiety.

Expert care:

Professional boarding facilities have trained staff who are knowledgeable about animal behaviour, nutrition, and health care, offering peace of mind to pet owners.

Boarding facilities are equipped to handle emergencies and provide immediate medical assistance if needed. They often have on-call veterinarians or established relationships with nearby animal clinics.

Controlled environment:

Boarding facilities provide a safe and hygienic environment for pets, with secure enclosures, fences, and ventilation systems.

No dependency on individuals:

Boarding facilities provide consistent care from trained staff members, ensuring pets receive regular feeding, exercise, and attention as per their needs.

Pet owners can have peace of mind knowing that their pets will be cared for regardless of any individual’s schedule, availability, or personal circumstances.

Convenience:

Boarding facilities are convenient for pet owners who travel frequently or have last-minute plans, offering flexible drop-off and pick-up hours and additional services.

They are available in many locations, making it easier to find a suitable facility near your home or travel destination.

Cons of Boarding:

Stressful environment:

It is important to assess your pet’s personality and temperament before opting for boarding to avoid increased stress and discomfort.

The presence of unfamiliar animals, different smells, and the absence of their usual surroundings can contribute to heightened anxiety in some pets.

Limited personal attention:

Boarding facilities may not be able to cater to each pet’s unique preferences or requirements, which can be a drawback for pets used to a high level of personal attention.

While boarding facilities strive to provide care for all pets, the individual attention each pet receives may be less compared to what they would receive in a home setting with a dedicated pet sitter.

Increased risk of illness:

It is important to ensure that your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date in a boarding facility to minimize the risk of infectious diseases or parasites.

Being near other animals in a boarding facility can increase the risk of infectious diseases or parasites, despite the facility’s best efforts to maintain hygiene. Despite strict cleanliness protocols, there is always a possibility of exposure to contagious illnesses.

Cost:

When it comes to pet sitting vs boarding, boarding fees can be a significant factor for pet owners, so it’s important to understand the pricing structure and consider the quality of care provided.

 

 

Fees can add up, especially for longer stays or for multiple pets. By 2031, the market for pet boarding will increase from its current $20 billion value to $36 billion. That’s money you paid into this industry to board your pet!

Boarding facilities charge for the services they provide, including food, accommodation, and staff care. Additional services such as grooming or specialized medical attention may incur extra costs.

Potential Mismatch:

Some boarding facilities may have restrictions on accepting certain breeds, aggressive dogs, or pets with complex medical requirements.

Choosing the right boarding facility that suits your pet’s personality and requirements is crucial to ensure their comfort, safety, and well-being during their stay.

Conclusion

Pet owners should weigh the pros and cons of pet sitting vs boarding when choosing pet care while away. They should consider their pet’s temperament, specific needs, and comfort level, and ensure the trustworthiness and reliability of the caretaker or facility.

Pet sitting offers the benefits of a familiar environment, personalized attention, maintenance of routines, home security, and consistency of pet care. On the other hand, boarding provides socialization opportunities, expert care, a controlled environment, convenience, and independence from individual availability.

Which is your preferred option and how has it worked out for you? Share in the comment section below – because sharing is caring.