House Sitter vs Boarder: Which Is Right for Your Pet?
When life takes you away from home, choosing the right care for your dog, cat, or small pet matters. Whether it’s a weekend break or a longer holiday, your pet’s well-being is always top priority.
So, what’s the best option: hiring a house sitter or booking a boarder?
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the differences. I’ll share what I’ve seen work best for different types of pets and why house sitting may be the calmest, safest option for many. By the end, you’ll feel clearer, more confident, and better prepared to make the right choice for your pet.
What Is a House Sitter?
A house sitter stays in your home while you’re away. They care for your pets in their usual space, following your routines.
This is ideal for animals who thrive on familiarity. It works especially well for:
- Dogs who are shy, nervous, or sometimes reactive
- Cats who hate being moved
- Small pets or reptiles with sensitive environments
Why House Sitting Works So Well
- Familiar surroundings: Your pet stays where they feel safest.
- Same routines: Meals, walks, and play all happen on their normal schedule.
- No other animals: One-to-one attention, no social stress.
- Home security: Someone is also looking after your house.
Many pet owners I work with tell me their dog barely notices they’ve gone. That’s how relaxed they are.
What Is a Dog Boarder?
A dog boarder looks after your dog in their own home. Sometimes they care for multiple dogs at once.
It can work for outgoing, confident dogs who enjoy socialising and new environments.
What to Expect from a Boarder
- New surroundings: Your pet stays in someone else’s home.
- Group care: Often other dogs are present.
- Set routines: Activities and care are shared among pets.
- Licensed setup: They need a council licence to operate legally.
Some dogs love the stimulation. But for others, it can be overwhelming.
Why Licensing for Boarders Matters
In the UK, dog boarding is regulated. The local council must license anyone offering boarding in their own home.
That licence means:
- The home has passed safety and welfare checks
- Insurance is valid in case of an emergency
- The boarder follows strict care standards
Always ask to see the licence. If someone offers to board your dog without one, walk away.
House sitting, by contrast, doesn’t require a licence—because care happens in your home. But good insurance is still essential.
Key Differences: House Sitter vs Boarder
| Feature | House Sitter | Dog Boarder |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Your home | Their home |
| Other animals | No | Often yes |
| Licence needed | No | Yes |
| Insurance needed | Yes | Yes |
| Routine | Custom to your pet | Shared schedule |
| Ideal for | Nervous pets, cats, reptiles | Sociable, adaptable dogs |
When to Choose House Sitting
You should consider a house sitter if:
- Your dog is reactive, elderly, or easily stressed
- Your cat hates car rides or change
- Your rabbit or reptile needs a specific environment
- You want someone to keep an eye on your home too
From my own experience, dogs with separation anxiety settle faster with a sitter than they ever do in a kennel.
When a Boarder Might Work
Boarding can work if:
- Your dog is used to daycare or busy homes
- They’re confident and like being around other dogs
- You’ve checked that the border is licensed and insured
Some boarders offer great care—but it’s not the right fit for every dog.
What to Ask Before You Book
Whether you choose a sitter or boarder, ask:
- Are you licensed (if boarding)?
- Do you have public liability insurance?
- What’s your experience with pets like mine?
- Can I see references or reviews?
- What’s a typical day like in your care?
Good carers will welcome these questions.
Why I Specialise in House Sitting
I’ve worked with pets of all shapes and temperaments over the years. But it’s the awkward but awesome dogs who have my heart.
That’s why I offer one-to-one pet sitting in your home:
- I stick to your routines
- I don’t mix dogs from different households
- I keep things quiet, calm, and focused on your pet’s needs
- I’ve done first aid training and understand body language signals
It’s not just about walks and food—it’s about making sure your pet feels safe, respected, and relaxed while you’re away.
I also look after:
- Cats who like their own space
- Rabbits and guinea pigs who need gentle handling
- Reptiles who rely on specific care setups
Every visit includes basic home care too—watering plants, picking up post, switching lights.
Real Example: Benny the Nervous Spaniel
Benny had been to a boarder before and came back withdrawn and anxious. His owner tried house sitting instead.
I kept things calm and predictable. Walks happened at quiet times. His meals were served the way he liked them. I even sat on the floor at his level to build trust.
By day three, he greeted me with tail wags and brought me his toy.
His owner told me, “It’s like he didn’t even miss us.”
FAQs
Do house sitters need a licence?
No. Because care happens in your home, sitters aren’t required to hold a licence. But they should be insured.
How do I know if a boarder is licensed?
Ask to see their current council licence. If they can’t provide one, they’re not boarding legally.
What if my pet has medical needs?
House sitting is often better for pets who need close, consistent care. Always discuss medication routines with any carer.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Pet
Every pet is different. What works for one dog may not work for another. The most important thing is to choose care that suits your pet’s needs and personality.
If your dog thrives at home, becomes anxious with change, or requires extra attention, house sitting may be the best option.
If they love adventure and are well-socialised, a licensed boarder might suit them.
Either way, ask the right questions. And always check licences and insurance.
Let’s Chat
If you’re based in Finchley, Muswell Hill or nearby and looking for calm, reliable house sitting or dog walking, I’d love to help.
Fill out the form or send me a WhatsApp on 077 077 6 33 44
I specialise in the awkward but awesome ones—and treat them like family while you’re away.