When you’re going away for a trip or need to spend long hours outside the house, one of the biggest concerns for any pet owner is ensuring your furry friend is cared for while you’re gone. For years, pet boarding was considered the default solution. Many pet owners would drop their pets off at boarding facilities or kennels, hoping they would be comfortable and well taken care of. However, more people today are turning to pet sitting as a better alternative, and for good reason.
Pet sitting gives a less stressful environment for your pets, because instead of adjusting to a new place, unfamiliar smells, and the company of other animals, your pet can stay in the comfort of their own home, receiving one-on-one attention from a trusted sitter.
Still not sure how to choose the best option for your pet? Check out all the reasons why pet sitting is way better than pet boarding!
Pet Sitter Will Give All the Attention to Your Pet
At boarding facilities, staff are often responsible for several animals at the same time. As a result, your pet might not receive the level of individual care and attention they’re used to. By hiring a pet sitter, you don’t have to worry that your pet will get neglected. The sitter will only take care of your furry friend, and thus your pet will become the centre of attention. Whether it’s belly rubs, playtime, or medication at specific times, a pet sitter can cater to your pet’s unique needs. This personalized care not only ensures that your pet is physically looked after but also that they get emotional companionship, which is just as important for their overall well-being.
Less Stress for Your Pet
Animals are creatures of habit, and they feel most secure when surrounded by familiar smells, sights, and sounds. When pets are boarded, they are placed in an unfamiliar environment with new routines and often with many other animals.
This sudden change can be overwhelming, especially for pets that are anxious, older, or have never spent time away from home. Pet sitting, on the other hand, allows your pet to remain in a space they know and love. Their daily routine is preserved, from feeding times to walks and even favorite sleeping spots, which helps them feel calm and secure while you're away.
Reduced Risk of Illness
Boarding facilities, even the cleanest ones, can expose your pet to other animals that may carry diseases, parasites, or infections. Kennel cough, fleas, and stomach bugs are common concerns in shared environments. If your pet has a weaker immune system, this risk can be even higher.
By hiring a pet sitter instead, you can reduce this risk entirely, since your pet stays in a controlled and familiar space without contact with other animals. This keeps them healthier and gives you one less thing to worry about while you’re away.
Way More Convenience
Getting your pet ready for a boarding stay often involves packing food, toys, bedding, and possibly even transporting them long distances. If your pet gets anxious in the car or has trouble adjusting to new environments, this can be a stressful process for both of you. But now with pet sitting, all these hassles will be removed.
You don’t need to drop your pet off or pick it up at specific times. Instead, a pet sitter can come to your home, giving you the flexibility to leave and return without extra travel arrangements. Not only is this great for you, but for pets with strict routines or special needs, pet sitting is a far more convenient and stress-free option!
Better Communication
Most professional pet sitters today offer regular updates, photos, and even video check-ins, so you can see how your pet is doing in real time. This offers peace of mind, especially if you are the kind of pet parents who often get worried while you’re away. When you board your pet, it may be harder to get personal updates unless you call and ask.
When you hire a pet sitter, you will be able to contact them anytime to get real-time updates on what your pet is currently doing. This will keep you in the loop, and thus you can rest easy knowing that your pet is in safe hands. If anything unusual comes up, your sitter is already in your home and can act quickly or contact you.
Safe and Secure Environment
When caring for your pet, the pet sitter will visit your home regularly, and thus it can also help maintain your home’s safety while you’re away. Having someone regularly enter your home can deter potential break-ins. This adds another layer of security and helps you come back to a house that’s just as you left it.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
All these reasons highlight why pet sitting is a great choice to consider the next time you need to leave your pet at home.
Choosing pet sitting over boarding is not just about convenience—it’s about giving your pet the best care possible while you're away. It reduces stress, supports their physical and emotional well-being, and allows you to enjoy your time apart with confidence and peace of mind.
At Luce, our certified pet sitters are trained to provide compassionate, reliable care tailored to your pet’s needs. We offer flexible scheduling to match your lifestyle, thus your pet can stay happy at home, and you can focus on your day without worry.
Book a trusted pet sitter from Luce today!
