Have you ever dreamed of staying in beautiful homes or traveling the world without worrying about accommodation costs?
Or perhaps you’re an animal lover looking for the perfect way to bond with with little furry companions while exploring new destinations?
Whatever the reason, house and pet sitting might just be the perfect gig for you!
By becoming a reputable house sitter or pet sitter, you open the door to exciting travel opportunities, save money on accommodations, and get the joy of caring for someone’s beloved pets while they’re away.
Whether you’re a digital nomad blending work and travel, a frequent traveler seeking budget-friendly options, or someone who just loves pets and new experiences, this guide will show you the easiest way to get started and become a pro.
Sign up to get 25% off your TrustedHousesitters membership using the code MARSZ25
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What is House and Pet Sitting?
House sitting and pet sitting is exactly what it sounds like—you look after someone’s home and/or their pets while they’re away.
This arrangement benefits both parties. Homeowners get peace of mind knowing their home and pets are in good hands, and sitters enjoy free lodging with the added bonus of adorable companionship.
Thanks to platforms like TrustedHousesitters (whom I use and LOVE), house sitting has grown in popularity.
It’s increasingly common among frequent travelers and digital nomads seeking cost-effective ways to live and work abroad, as well as pet parents who want loving care for their furry friend.
Benefits of House Sitting:
- Travel Cheaply: Save so much money on hotels and Airbnbs by staying in someone’s home for free.
- Get Your Pet Fix: Love animals but don’t have the bandwidth to own one? Pet sitting lets you enjoy cuddle time without a long-term commitment.
- Live Like a Local: Experience new cities and neighborhoods from an insider’s perspective, rather than staying in touristy areas.
What Makes a Great House or Pet Sitter?
Being a professional house sitter or pet sitter is about much more than just staying at someone’s home. It’s a role that requires trust, care, and attention to detail.
Qualities of a Great House/Pet Sitter
- Trustworthiness: Homeowners need to feel confident leaving their precious pets and homes in your hands. Always show integrity and honesty.
- Responsibility: You’re accountable for house rules, pet schedules, and upkeep. Treat their home as if it were your own.
- Flexibility: Adaptability goes a long way. You may have to tackle unexpected tasks or adjust to a pet’s unique needs.
- Love for Animals: Pet sitting means being an animal lover through and through. Providing compassionate care for pets is absolutely necessity.
Pro Tip: Always communicate clearly and proactively with homeowners to build trust and ensure a smooth experience.
How to Get Started in House and Pet Sitting
Getting started might sound overwhelming, but with the right tools and a little effort, it’s easier than you think.
Step 1: Research Reputable Platforms
- Sign up on popular house and pet sitting websites like TrustedHousesitters. This platform connects sitters with homeowners worldwide.
- I have been a member of TrustedHousesitters for years, and it has been a wonderful experience.
- Their website and app are very user-friendly, and it’s super easy to find house sits all over the world.
Sign up to get 25% off your TrustedHousesitters membership using the code MARSZ25
Step 2: Create a Standout Profile
Your profile is your first impression. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Add Clear Photos: Include high-quality pictures of yourself, ideally with pets. Show homeowners your animal-loving side!
- Highlight Your Experience: Mention any pet care or house sitting you’ve done before, even for friends or family. Having previous experience will majorly help you out.
- Showcase Skills: Are you great with senior pets? Can you handle finicky cats? Details like these can set you apart.
- Complete Needed Verifications: Your email address, phone number, and an official ID document will need to be verified. If you’re in the US, there is also a background/criminal record check.
Step 3: Build Solid References
Ask previous homeowners or friends you’ve helped to write you glowing references. If you’re just starting out, volunteer to pet sit for family or friends to build credibility.
Pro Tip: Ask for a picture of yourself with the pets you’ve helped out with. This will show potential homeowners your experience and trustworthiness.
Step 4: Decide on a Destination
Do you have a dream destination in mind, like New Zealand or Costa Rica? Or are you open to exploring new places? Your options are endless with house and pet sitting.
On TrustedHousesitters, you can find your ideal sit all with the few clicks of a button. Just search the area where you would like house-sitting assignments.
Then, put the dates you’re traveling and any other filters, like home type or animal preference.
Finally, you’ll get results that match your search query!
You also have the option of using the “save search” feature if no sits are available at that time. This is a great way to be one of the first people notified when something matches your specific search.
The saved search feature has helped me so many times–I’ve been able to get some really good, last-minute house sits this way!
Step 5: Craft a Winning Application
When applying for house sits, send an engaging and personalized message. Reference specific details from the homeowner’s listing, use the pet(s)’s name, and explain why you’re the perfect person for the job.
Also, be patient, as it may take time to land your first sit.
Navigating the House and Pet Sitting Experience
Congratulations—you’ve landed your first sit! Now it’s time to prepare for an unforgettable experience.
Communication is Key
- Before the sit, clarify expectations with the homeowner. Discuss house rules, pet schedules, and emergency protocols.
- Keep homeowners updated during the sit with photos and videos of happy pets and reassuring messages.
- After the sit, thank the homeowners and leave a review on the website about your experience. They will also leave a review about you that will be shown on your profile.
Remember: Communication is key to building trust and establishing a lasting relationship with homeowners!
Pack Smart
Whether it’s your first or fiftieth house sit, having the essentials is crucial:
- Comfortable clothing for lounging and pet walks.
- Notepad for jotting down house-specific instructions.
- Phone charger, toiletries, and any necessary medications.
- Any pet essentials the homeowner may have forgotten to leave behind (backups never hurt).
Prepare for the Unexpected
No house sit is 100% smooth, so be ready to adapt. For example:
- The dog might get sick—stay calm and know the vet’s contact info.
- You may have a power outage—know where the candles and flashlights are.
- Mishaps like broken appliances can happen—immediately inform the homeowner and help find a solution.
I remember at a previous house sit I had in Dallas, the homeowner’s plumbing went haywire!
She was on a plane at that time and had limited cell phone service, so she gave me the number of a family member to call to come fix it. Talk about an eventful day!
The key? Stay relaxed, resourceful, and communicative.
Remember: Always inform the homeowner of any issues and work together to find solutions. A little flexibility and positivity go a long way!
Enjoy Your Time
House and pet sitting is an opportunity to experience new places, make furry friends, and create lasting memories. So, take time for yourself too!
- Explore the local area during downtime. Find hidden gems like parks, cafes, or hiking trails.
- Wind down at night with a good book or movie in your cozy temporary home.
- Take plenty of photos and videos to cherish the memories.
- Make time for self-care, whether that’s a hot shower or a yoga session in the living room.
As much as you’re house sitting to take care of someone else’s home and pets, don’t forget to take care of yourself too.
It’s important to find a balance between your responsibilities and enjoying your time in a new place.
After all, that’s what makes house sitting such a unique and rewarding experience!
The Financial Side of House and Pet Sitting
While many house sitting opportunities are unpaid, they typically provide free accommodation—a massive win for travelers looking to save money.
Setting Rates for Paid Sits
Once experienced, you can start charging for certain services, particularly pet care. Rates often depend on responsibilities like administering medication or extensive house maintenance.
Of course, you can’t charge homeowners when using platforms like TrustedHousesitters, but if you want to start your own side hustle or full-fledged house and petting business, more power to you!
Pro Tip: Check local norms and competitive rates for your area to price yourself appropriately.
How Much Can You Save?
Imagine this: A week-long hotel stay in London could cost upwards of $1,500. House sitting, on the other hand? That same week is free, minus a few hours spent taking care of pets.
Your Next Step Towards Becoming a Pro House Sitter
House sitting isn’t just a money-saving hack—it’s a lifestyle filled with opportunities for meaningful connections, travel, and, of course, adorable pets.
If you’re ready to get started, sign up on TrustedHousesitters today using this link and add the code MARSZ25 at checkout to get 25% off your first year.
This is the first step to free lodging, exciting travels, and pet-filled adventures!
With the right attitude (and a love for animals), you could soon become the best professional house sitter with your calendar filled with cool locations you’ll be traveling to. Happy sitting! 🐾
Peace, love, and good vibrations.
