Housesitting is a fantastic opportunity.
When your a house sitter you spend time in areas you may never normally see while saving on accommodation.
Add to that some animal cuddles, and you have a very pleasant travel experience indeed.
But what if you are traveling with your own furry friend?
There are some house-sitting sites that allow you to filter for assignments that allow you to bring your animals. I have put together a list of those sites below
Table of Contents
Sites That Allow You to Filter For Pet-Friendly Sits
The sites below allow you to filter for assignments where the homeowner is comfortable for you to bring your own animals (within reason) I highly doubt you’re bringing your own horse!
This video will show you how to apply the filter to find pet-friendly sits on Aussie House Sitters – see the video
This video will show you how to apply the filter to find pet-friendly sits on House Sitters America – see the video
This video will show you how to apply the filter to find pet-friendly sits on Mindahome – see the video
This video will show you how to apply the filter to find pet-friendly sits on Happy House Sitters – see the video
This video will show you how to apply the filter to find pet-friendly sits on Kiwi House Sitters – see the video
Why House Sit?
With animals becoming much-loved family members, the demand for pet and house sitters is only increasing.
Families often have a menagerie of animals and the cost of boarding the beloved animals can be hefty.
Accommodation in exchange for pet and home care is an attractive solution.
In return, families can enjoy their own holiday safe in the knowledge their home and pets are well cared for. Having someone in the home gives great peace of mind while away.
But what if you have your own beloved furry sidekick? Is it possible to bring them along with you to share the adventure?
House Sitting With Your Own Pets
As a pet owner, you are often a sought-after commodity. After all, if your own pet is alive, loved, and happy there’s a fair chance you can look after someone else’s pet well.
But of course, that means leaving your own furry loved one behind for an extended period of time.
The best-case scenario is taking your pet along with you to your proposed pet sitting. This brings its own challenges along with it.
Is It Difficult Finding A Sit With My Pet?
Finding a house sit that can also accommodate the sitter’s pet can be challenging. But not impossible. While the choice of sits may be limited, there are still lots out there.
Add the fact you have your own pet in your sitting profile. That way the information is immediately available. Include as much detail as possible about your pet.
Preparing For A Sit
Always be upfront when applying. Ensure the homeowners are fully aware to save any awkward surprises when you arrive at your sit.
If you can arrange a meet and greet between animals before committing, all the better. Some animals can be quite territorial in their own home.
The last thing you want is to stress the pet you are caring for. You can also let them know your pet sitting rates at this meeting.
Stick close to home for the first couple of sits. That way you can arrange a meeting, or organize alternative care for your own pet if it falls apart.
Repeat sits are also a great alternative. If you’ve taken your pet and there are no issues, you know that everyone is comfortable in the environment.
Before we arrive at any sit we always send our printable pet sitting questions. This ensures the homeowner has time to answer them before we arrvie.
Potential Pitfalls
The most obvious pitfall will be any conflict between the various animals.
Try to have them interact before you commit to the sit. Meet on neutral territory and not in their home space. Keep a close watch on them while they are together, especially during meal times.
The next consideration is the safety of your own pet. Being away from its own environment may be upsetting, even if it has you for company.
Will you be able to give your own pet enough attention, while looking after someone else’s? Will jealousy become an issue?
Conflict Resolution
It’s always best to have a plan in place for any potential conflicts. An alternative plan gives peace of mind, should any issues arise during your time there.
It’s difficult to know how animals will interact. They may be best buddies, tolerate each other, or fight…well, like cats and dogs.
Obviously, if your own furry friend is a little feisty, taking it on a pet sit wouldn’t be the greatest idea. Be honest and upfront with your own pet’s limits. If they have a fear of cats or large dogs, stick to house sits that don’t have either.
Are there spaces you can separate the animals if problems arise? If you need to leave the home, can the animals be secured separately?
What About International Sits?
So you’ve set off on your international travel adventure with your fur buddy in tow.
The most important thing is to be aware of the laws surrounding the movement of pets across the world.
Traveling with pets to foreign shores can be an expensive exercise. Most will need a pet passport and rabies vaccination at the least. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, and Hawaii have strict quarantine rules.
Most counties are embracing the idea of pet and house sits, but very few offer the option to bring your own animals. An international house sit is a great way to see the world.
But options can be limited for those traveling with their own pets.
As an animal lover, traveling with your own pet can be a wonderful experience.
With some careful research, planning, and experience, it is certainly a doable prospect.
Author: Britt
I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.
The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.
I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.
Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.
I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!
You can read more about Jay and me here!
Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.
