House and pet sitting is a great way to travel, save money, and care for pets. But it’s not always as easy as it sounds. You need to build trust with homeowners and handle unexpected challenges. Knowing what to expect can make the experience smoother. In this blog, I’ll share key tips, pros and cons, and lessons from my own experience.
How I Found a New Way to Travel and Connect
I became a house and pet sitter by accident. At first, I was just looking for a way to travel without spending too much on accommodations. While searching for budget-friendly options, I found TrustedHousesitters and discovered house sitting. It seemed like the perfect way to explore new places while staying in cozy homes. Since I love animals, pet sitting felt like a natural fit.
At first, I wasn’t sure if it would work for me. I had no prior experience with official house and pet sitting, and I didn’t know if homeowners would trust me. But I created a profile, shared my love for animals, and applied for my first sit. It didn’t take long to get accepted, and once I did, I realized how much I enjoyed it. Caring for pets, staying in different homes, and connecting with homeowners turned out to be even more rewarding than I had expected.
Over time, house and pet sitting became more than just a way to save money. It turned into a lifestyle. I’ve met amazing homeowners, formed bonds with sweet pets, and stayed in places I never would have visited otherwise. It’s been a journey full of learning, surprises, and unforgettable experiences.
My First House and Pet Sitting Experience
My first house and pet sitting job was for a family with an elderly dog named Lexi. They were going on vacation and needed someone responsible to look after their home and pet. I was excited but also a little nervous. Would Lexi like me? What if something went wrong?
When I arrived, the homeowners gave me a tour and explained Lexi’s routine. She didn’t need any medication, but she shed—a lot. At first, she kept her distance and wasn’t too sure about me. She had recently lost her sister and was still grieving, so I gave her space and let her adjust at her own pace. Over the next few days, I took her on walks and slowly earned her trust. By the end of my stay, she followed me around like we had been friends forever.
That first house and pet sitting experience taught me a lot. I learned how to adjust to a new home, be patient with pets, and embrace the unexpected. Most of all, I realized how rewarding it was to care for animals while getting to experience new places. After Lexi, I knew I wanted to keep doing this.
What I Love About House and Pet Sitting
House and pet sitting has become more than just a way to travel—it’s something I truly enjoy. Every experience is different, and that’s what makes it exciting. From caring for sweet pets to staying in beautiful homes, there’s so much to love about this lifestyle.
One of the best parts is bonding with pets. I’ve had the chance to care for dogs, cats, and other animals, each with their own unique personality. Some pets take time to warm up, while others become instant cuddle buddies. It’s rewarding to gain their trust and provide them with comfort while their owners are away.
I also love the variety of homes I get to stay in. Each one has its own charm, from cozy apartments to spacious houses with stunning views. Living in different places has made me more adaptable and appreciative of simple comforts. Plus, I get to explore new cities without spending a fortune on accommodations.
Beyond the travel perks, house and pet sitting has taught me responsibility and patience. Caring for someone’s home and pet is a big responsibility, and I take that seriously. Whether it’s keeping a house tidy, following pet routines, or handling unexpected situations, I’ve learned valuable skills along the way.
Challenges of House and Pet Sitting
House and pet sitting is a great experience, but it comes with challenges. Every home is different, and adjusting to new spaces can take time. Some houses have strict rules, unusual appliances, or pets with specific routines. Learning everything quickly and making sure nothing goes wrong can feel overwhelming at first.
Caring for pets isn’t always easy. Some animals take time to warm up, while others have high energy or special needs. I’ve had pets that shed everywhere, needed extra patience, or felt anxious when their owners left. Handling these situations requires patience, understanding, and a love for animals.
Another challenge is the responsibility. Homeowners trust me to care for their space and their pets, so I have to be extra careful. A small mistake, like forgetting to lock a door or missing a pet’s meal time, can have big consequences. Despite these challenges, I’ve learned a lot, and each experience has made me a better house and pet sitter.
How to Get Started
1. Create a Strong Profile
Join a trusted platform like TrustedHousesitters. A great profile makes a big difference. Include:
- Your experience with pets and home care.
- Why homeowners can trust you.
- Photos of you with animals.
- References or reviews from past sits (if available).
2. Apply for Your First Sit
Landing your first house and pet sitting job takes patience. Start with short-term or local sits to build your reputation. When applying, make sure to:
- Write a friendly and professional message.
- Ask about pet routines and house rules.
- Show enthusiasm and reliability.
3. Be a Responsible Sitter
Once you get a sit, do your best to make a great impression:
- Treat the home with care and respect.
- Follow pet care instructions closely.
- Communicate with owners with regular updates.
If you do a great job, homeowners will want you back, and more opportunities will come your way!
Is House and Pet Sitting Right for You?
House and pet sitting is more than just free stays—it’s a chance to build trust, care for animals, and experience new places in a meaningful way. Each sit brings something different, from learning new pet routines to adapting to unique homes.
If you enjoy animals and are open to new experiences, this can be a rewarding adventure. With responsibility and a love for pets, you can turn house and pet sitting into more than just a way to travel—it can become a lifestyle filled with unforgettable moments.
