Professional Pet Sitter or Free Pet Sitter: Which is the right choice for you?
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When it comes to finding a trustworthy pet sitter for your next vacation, there are two easy and reliable options to decide between: hiring a paid professional pet sitter, or finding a free pet sitter through house sitting platforms such as TrustedHousesitters. Each option has its unique characteristics and benefits, so let's delve into what sets them apart, compare the pros and cons, and discover which is best for you!
Defining a Professional Pet Sitter
A professional house sitter is a paid individual who prioritizes your pets and home above all else. As a paid service, their job is to ensure the well-being of your pets is their top priority. These professionals are typically insured, bonded, and highly experienced in their field. With their expertise, they can provide comprehensive pet and home care in a range of situations, including pets with behavioral or medical issues.
Defining a Free Pet Sitter
A free house sitter, such as one found through TrustedHousesitters, is not financially compensated for their services. Instead, house sitters are given a free stay in your home, offering them a budget-friendly way to enjoy the area you live in. This mutually beneficial exchange allows house sitters to enjoy new experiences and locations while providing reliable care for your home and beloved pets!
Jori and Austin house sitting in Bozeman, Montana with Jeter, Cooper, and Cassie!
Now that we have clearly defined the difference between a professional house sitter in comparison to a free house sitters, let's explore the pros and cons of each option. Considering the following benefits and drawbacks is crucial when deciding which pet care option is best for you!
Professional Pet Sitters Pros vs. Cons
Pros
Expertise: Professional pet sitters are trained and experienced in their field. Their knowledge allows them to adjust to individual pet personalities, administer medications, and identify potential hazards promptly.
Reliability: A professional pet sitter depends on a strong reputation for their business to succeed, so you can depend on them to follow through on their commitments.
Insurance and Bonding: Many professional pet sitters are bonded and insured, offering added protection for both the pet owner and the sitter.
Emergency Preparedness: Professional sitters are more likely to be prepared for emergencies and unexpected situations. They typically possess pet CPR and First aid training, and knowledge regarding common pet health issues and how to respond to them.
Consistency: If your pet needs consistency, you are more likely to have a repeat sitter if you establish care with a local professional.
Cons
Cost: Hiring a professional pet sitter can get expensive. Especially if you have multiple pets, or if your trip falls over a popular vacation time. In the United States, drop in visits average $25 for a 30 minute visit. If you are looking for a house sitter to stay overnight, this cost can range anywhere between $45-$150 a night.
Limited Availability: Since they need to juggle multiple clients, professional pet sitters tend to have a more limited schedule. Especially during peak vacation seasons or if you are looking for a sitter last minute.
Limited Emotional Bond: As professionals, some pet sitters may prioritize their job's responsibilities over forming a deep emotional bond with your pet, potentially resulting in a less personal connection.
Austin and Emmacat enjoying the beautiful view
Free Pet Sitters Pros vs. Cons
Pros
Cost Savings: Using a free pet sitter can save you thousands of dollars in pet care costs annually.
High-quality care: Free house sitters still offer high quality pet care services, and some may even possess expertise in the industry.
Reviewed and verified: Free pet sitters are reviewed and verified. By glimpsing their profile, you can gain insight into their experience, skills, and past reviews from other homeowners.
Full attention: Without other clients to juggle, free pet sitters are able to focus solely on your pets' specific needs and routines.
Flexible schedules: Free pet sitters plan their trips around your schedule, and tend to have more flexibility with their arrival and departure times. It can also be easier to find sitters at the last minute.
Develop personal relationships: Given the friendly nature of the exchange, there is opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with the people who house sit for you. We have made many lifelong friends through this exchange- both human and animal!
Cons
Limited Expertise: While free pet sitters are devoted pet lovers, they may not have the same level of training or expertise as professional pet sitters.
Lack of Insurance and Bonding: Free pet sitters are unlikely to have liability insurance or bonding, making it a bit riskier of an option in case of any accidents or incidents. However, certain house sit exchange websites may be able to provide this for you.
Availability: There is a risk that you may not be able to secure a house sitter for your dates, or that a sitter could cancel last minute.
Consistency: While there is opportunity to find repeat sitters to provide consistent care for your pets, it is less likely than if you were to hire a local professional.
Capacity: Since free house sitters place a high value on the ability to explore the area they are visiting, it’s important that your pet’s schedule allows your sitter to have free-time.
Jori with goats at one of our TrustedHousesitters farm sits
Professional or Free Sitter: Which is For You?
When deciding between professional house sitting and house sit exchanges, it all comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and the level of care your pets require.
If your pets need constant attention, have challenging behavior or medical issues, or if there are significant responsibilities involved, hiring a professional house sitter is likely the better option.
Alternatively, If your pets are relatively easy to care for, and you believe that your house sitter could still have ample free time to relax and enjoy your local area, a free exchange would be a good fit!
The last thing to consider is that while the ability to trust your sitter is a factor for both options, it is essential if you choose to go with a free house sitter. Trust is the concept in which the entire concept has been built upon. A strong and trusting relationship between house sitters and homeowners leads to improved communication, strengthened relationships, and a more positive overall experience. As experienced free house sitters, we can attest to the fact that without trust, the experience can be unpleasant for both parties. If trusting others is a challenge for you, it might be wiser to opt for a professional house sitter.
Final thoughts
Both professional house sitting and house sit exchanges offer their own unique benefits. Professional house sitters shine in their expertise and reliability, making them ideal for pets with complex requirements and owners who struggle to trust easily. On the other hand, hosting a free house sitter is an excellent budget-friendly option for you and your pets to still receive reliable and quality pet care!
Ultimately, the best choice depends on understanding your pets' specific needs and your own preferences. Armed with the information provided in this post, you can make an informed decision that ensures the well-being and happiness of your pets during your time away!
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