During the holidays, it can be hard to find a reliable pet sitter, especially at the last minute. It happens to the best of us—plans change suddenly, and you find yourself needing a pet sitter on short notice. I’ve been on the receiving end of this on more than a few occasions. Whether it’s a last-minute work trip, a family emergency, or an unexpected event, the stress of leaving your pet behind can be overwhelming. But not to worry, there are plenty of ways to find reliable care for your furry friend, even when time is tight. The following are just a few ideas that I could come up with. I welcome any additional ideas from the pet loving public.
Local Facebook Groups:
A great place to begin your search for a last-minute pet sitter is through local community groups on Facebook. Many neighborhoods have dedicated groups where pet care services are posted or where locals share recommendations. These groups are a valuable resource for finding a reliable sitter who may be available on short notice. Just search for pet care or neighborhood-specific groups in your area, and you’re likely to find several options. If you’re unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to ask for suggestions—most people are eager to assist a fellow pet lover in need.
Friends and Family:
If you’re like me and not really into the whole social media thing, try reaching out to friends or family members. This may be one of the most comforting options for last-minute pet sitting. Not only are they often willing to help, but they’re also already familiar with your pet, which can ease your worries about their comfort and safety. Whether it’s a brother who loves your dog or a friend who’s a fellow pet parent, family and friends can be a great safety net. Of course, it’s best to ask ahead of time, but if you knew you needed a pet sitter ahead of time, then this article would be of no use to you. However, in an emergency, they might be more willing to lend a hand if you’re in a tight spot.
Neighbors:
Neighbors can often be a hidden gem when it comes to last-minute pet care. If you live in a pet-friendly community, you might have neighbors who already have pets and would be happy to help out. You do know your neighbors, don’t you? Since they live close by, it’s easy for them to pop in for quick visits or walks. Plus, there’s the added benefit of knowing they’re familiar with the area and can be there quickly if needed. A neighbor might even be willing to check on your pet while you’re gone, which can be a huge relief when you’re short on time. I’m really referring to dogs in this case. Cats can pretty much take care of themselves as long as they have food and water, and a place to poop!
Commercial Pet Sitters, Boarding, and Walkers:
If you’re in a real bind and can’t find any alternatives, professional pet sitters or commercial boarding services may be your only choice. Again, we’re talking about last- minute pet sitting, and around the holidays, they may already be booked solid! Many pet care companies, including sitters and dog walkers, offer last-minute bookings, especially if you’re flexible with your schedule. When contacting them and they don’t have any spots open, let them know to contact you in case of a cancellation. It’s rare, but it does happen.
Pooper Scooper Services:
Now, for the crux of this article and what got me thinking about it. For those who need a quick check-in without the full pet-sitting service, try your pooper scooper service. If you don’t use one, find one in your area and see if they offer pet sitting services. While their main focus is cleaning up after your pet, many companies will also check in on your pet or even take them for a short walk during a visit. These services can be incredibly helpful in a pinch, as they tend to be available on short notice and are usually easy to book last-minute.
That’s how I personally got started. A scooping client was in a pinch for a last-minute pet sitter and there were no available options. But, since I already knew their dogs and I was going there 3 times a week already to scoop poop, it was a no brainer to say yes to pet sitting. Not only did their dogs get fed and watered all week, they didn’t have to worry about the poop. Not all pet sitters will pick up dog poop. I have no idea why!
Conclusion:
When you’re in need of a last-minute pet sitter, the good news is that there are plenty of options available, from trusted friends and family to professional services. While it’s always ideal to plan ahead, sometimes life throws you a curveball. Keep these options in mind, and remember that your pet’s well-being is the top priority. With a little creativity and some local resources, you can always find someone who will love and care for your pet while you’re away.
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