Trusted Housesitters vs Sittercity

Taking care of our furry friends is always a priority. And when you're at home, you know you're giving your pet the best possible care. But what about when you're away? Some trips are too long for doggie car rides or too stressful for homebody kitties. So, when you enjoy your relaxing getaway, you want to know that your four-legged family members are safe, happy, and cared for with the same love that you show them yourself. That's where professional pet sitters come in.

Finding a pet sitter these days isn't the same as hoping someone in your neighborhood can stop by and check on Mr. Whiskers. Professional pet sitters are their own growing industry, and there are over 35,000 different pet sitters around the US. According to recent statistics, 99% of all pet sitters independently own their business, so you will be working with one sitter rather than trusting your home to multiple people.

There are many different types of pet sitters out there, including those who have experience with particular kinds of pets. You will often find sitters for common pets like dogs or cats, but there are some specialists for other exotic pets or even farm animals if you've got a few. Some pet sitters have additional training as well, like certifications in animal behavior or first aid. This is especially helpful if you have a pet with a medical condition like feline diabetes or IBD that may require more in-depth care than an average pet.

Hiring a pet sitter should be seamless. That's why there are tons of sites out there that allow professional pet sitters to list their services and make it much easier for you to sift through the list of specialists and fees for pet sitters in your area. Database-style sites are one of the top ways to hire an individual pet sitter that fits your furry family member's needs. This way, you can compare pet sitters side by side, and find the best selection without picking through Google listings or cold-calling numbers you find in ads.

But if you're not sure where you and your pet can find the best fit, don't worry - we've done the digging for you. Here are a few factors that can help you make your final decision:

• Cost. When you're picking a pet sitter, looking at hourly or daily costs is important. You need to add your pet sitter to your existing travel budget, so keep an eye on the rate to make sure you get the best deal for the services listed.
• Trust. Does the pet sitter offer easy communication and clear details for prices, skills, and certifications? Does the pet sitter display years of experience and testimonials for his or her skills? Make sure to look for details on your chosen pet sitter to feel secure with the individual in your home and around your beloved pet.
• Pet variety. If you're a household with multiple pets, variety can be a major factor in your decision. You'll need to look for versatile pet sitters that offer multiple pet types or skills for exotic pets too.
• Reputation. As always, make sure you check out a pet sitter site to be sure the pet sitter listings are legit. Researching your chosen pet sitter platform on third-party review sites like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau can help you be sure you are selecting the right pet sitter for your home and pet safety.

To help you find the best care so you can enjoy your next vacation worry-free, Top Consumer Reviews has researched and ranked the most popular pet sitters available today. This way, you can fly, drive, or sail with the knowledge that your precious four-legged friend is cared for, played with, and not lonely back at home. And you can rest easy knowing your cat, dog, bunny or beyond is safe at home waiting to cuddle you when you get back!