Guides

Pet sitting guides

Plain, sourced answers for anyone leaving a dog or cat with someone else.

Dog sitter walking a happy dog on a leash in a sunny park

How much to pay a dog sitter in 2026

How much to pay a dog sitter in 2026: average rates for drop-ins, walks, overnights and boarding, cat sitter prices, extra fees and how much to tip.

Dog left alone at home, sitting by the door and waiting for its owner

How long can a dog be left alone?

How long can a dog be left alone? Vet and charity guidance by age, from puppies to seniors, plus signs your dog is stressed and simple ways to help.

Gray tabby cat left alone at home, sitting on a sunny window sill

How long can a cat be left alone?

How long can a cat be left alone? Expert guidance for adult cats, kittens and seniors, why daily check-ins matter, and what to do when you travel.

Pet sitter checklist written in a spiral notebook with a marker

The pet sitter checklist: 25 things to leave your sitter

A printable pet sitter checklist for dogs and cats: feeding, meds, routines, emergency contacts and house notes. What to leave your sitter before you go.

White lily flower, a type of true lily that is toxic to cats

Are lilies toxic to cats?

Are lilies toxic to cats? Yes. Even a little pollen can cause kidney failure. Which lilies are dangerous, the symptoms, and why speed matters.