Glossary
Pet sitter
A person who looks after a dog in the owner's home, with drop-in visits or overnight stays, so the dog stays in a familiar setting.
Also called: pet sitting, dog sitter, house sitter, in-home pet care, drop-in visit, overnight sitter, pet sitting service
A pet sitter cares for your dog in your own home while you are away. Some come in for visits of 30 minutes to feed, walk and play, and others stay overnight. The dog stays with its own bed, routine and smells, which helps dogs that dislike kennels, older dogs, and homes with more than one pet.
When choosing a sitter, ask for references and proof of insurance, and think about a bonded sitter, who is covered if something goes missing. Pet sitting groups such as Pet Sitters International offer training and certification, but it is voluntary and not required by law. Meet the sitter and the dog together, write down feeding times, medicine, vet and emergency contacts and house rules, and leave a signed note allowing treatment.
A dog walker only does the walk, and dog boarding takes the dog to another place.
Last reviewed November 8, 2026