Pet sitting vs boarding: Which is the best for your pet?

As pet parents, taking care of our furry, scaly, or feathered mates is not just a choice, but a legal responsibility. In Queensland, for example, there are laws for pet owners that require them to provide the right food, a safe place to stay, and attentive care for their pets. 

So, when you’re heading off on your next adventure and can’t bring your mate along, the big decision becomes: pet boarding vs pet sitting, which is the right choice? Each pet care service has its own distinct advantages, and deciding between these services ultimately comes down to what’s best for paw pal and what works for you. We’re here to help you make the best choice, so let’s dive in and explore!

What is pet sitting?

Pet sitter playing with a dog. (Source: iStock)

Pet sitting is a service when a sitter comes to your residence to care for your pet while you’re away. This lets your pet stay in their own home. Surrounded by the things that they’re already accustomed to, this helps reduce stress, especially for those with separation anxiety. 

The routine stays consistent, whether it's feeding times, daily walks, or other special needs, ensuring that your pet feels safe and secure. Pet sitters offer flexibility, providing care for short visits or extended stays, tailoring their attention to your pet’s specific needs. For many pet parents, it’s a great way to feel at ease knowing their furry mate is being looked after at home.

What is pet boarding?

Cat housed at a pet boarding facility. (Source: iStock)

Pet boarding is an excellent option for pet parents who want their furry companions to stay in a safe, professional environment while you’re away. At a boarding facility, such as a kennel, cattery, or luxury pet hotel, your pet will be well looked after, with staff available to cater to their needs. 

This service is particularly great for pets that enjoy exploring new surroundings and socialising with other pets, as many boarding facilities offer communal play areas where pets can interact. With options ranging from standard accommodations to more grand amenities like grooming, playtime, and even spa services, boarding facilities are designed to keep pets comfortable and entertained. 

Additionally, boarding is a popular choice for those who prefer not to have someone in their home while knowing that their pets are in capable hands.

Pet boarding vs pet sitting: Which is the best choice for your furry friend?

When it comes to pet boarding vs pet sitting, choosing the right option for your cat or dog depends on a range of factors. From planning a day trip to being away for several months, it’s important to think about what will work best for your furry mate. 

While this guide focuses on cat care and dog care, much of the advice can apply to other pets as well. Let’s dive into the key points to consider:

In terms of the environment

Dog napping peacefully in a park. (Source: iStock)

For pets that struggle with separation anxiety or take time to adapt to new environments, pet sitting is ideal, as it allows them to remain in the comfort of their own home with a sitter ensuring their wellbeing. Pets will still have access to their favourite spots, like their cosy bed, the couch they love to nap on, or their familiar toys, providing them with a sense of security and normalcy. 

However, if your pet enjoys exploring new spaces and socialising, pet boarding, whether for cat boarding or dog boarding, in a kennel, cattery, or even a luxury pet hotel might be the better option. These places offer comfortable individual spaces with communal spaces where pets can interact, helping them build social skills. With trained staff available around the clock, boarding facilities ensure pets receive care, attention, and an enriching environment that can reduce anxiety while you’re away.

In terms of care and supervision

When it comes to pet sitting and pet boarding, the level of care and supervision differs significantly. 

In a pet boarding facility, dog care and cat care are often provided in a structured environment, with set routines and a staff-to-pet ratio, meaning your pet may share attention with others. Additionally, for short trips, pet boarding is usually convenient. 

But if your pet thrives on individual attention or has specific care needs, opting for a pet sitter is ideal. A cat or dog carer in a pet sitting setup offers more one-on-one attention, tailoring to your pet’s specific needs and routine in the comfort of their home. If your pet has unique requirements or isn’t up to date on vaccinations, a pet sitter is the better choice. 

In terms of pet socialisation

Cats participating in a virtual meeting. (Source: iStock)

A study by McEvoy et al. suggests that early socialisation for pets helps prevent behavioural issues later in life. So, if you want to teach your dog early social skills, pet boarding is an excellent option.

Pets that enjoy being around other pets might love cat or dog boarding facilities, where they can socialise in communal areas. Places like pet daycare even offer play sessions, ensuring your furry friend stays active and engaged while you’re away. 

But if your pet isn’t used to socialisation or long outdoor stays, pet sitting is your best bet. It’s also the ideal choice if your pet prefers a calm environment or struggles with unfamiliar animals or people. Your cat sitter or dog sitter can give them a variety of activities such as taking them for short walks to nearby parks, or to the many pet-friendly venues around. 

In terms of training

Pet boarding in terms of training is often more specialised. Boarding facilities, especially premium options like pet hotels, usually have experienced staff and may even include training sessions as part of their services. 

For pet sitting, you can give instructions if your pet knows basic commands to maintain consistency. Female dogs as compared to male dogs, being more docile, might do well with dog sitting, particularly if in heat. 

For cat care, sitters focus on routine and comfort rather than training, which is perfect for keeping your feline happy in familiar surroundings. Male cats unlike female cats are typically more social, but unneutered males can be aggressive, making pet sitting the calmer choice.

In terms of medical emergencies

Administering medicine to a dog. (Source: iStock)

Pet sitters, with their one-on-one attention to your pet, often build a strong bond with your pet and are quick to spot any changes in behaviour, health, or mood. It’s common for pet sitters to have the local vet’s contact information on hand, and it's wise to have a detailed chat with your sitter before you leave, particularly if your pet has a trusted vet or any ongoing medical needs.

For pet boarding, part of the steeper price tag covers the fact that they’re generally better prepared for medical emergencies. They typically have protocols in place and many high-end facilities are equipped with staff trained in first aid. Some top-tier boarding facilities even have vets on-site, giving you extra peace of mind.

In terms of cost

For those wondering how much to charge for dog sitting or cat sitting, it can depend on factors like the type and number of pets, length of stay, travel, and extra services such as walking or special diets. 

For dogs, the dog sitter cost typically runs between $15 to $100 per hour, varying by state. Meanwhile, the dog boarding cost varies depending on the type of facility: 

• Dog kennel: $25 - $50

• Dog hotel: $46 - $90 

• In-home dog boarding/dog sitter: $38 - $65

• VIP/luxury suite: $60 - $120

The cat sitter cost is often lower, ranging from $20-30 per hour, varying by state. But any extras such as grooming, training, or emergency medication can further drive up the price. Here’s the average cat-sitting cost per duration: 

• 1 hour: $20 - $30

• 1 day: $40 to $50

• 1 night: $45 to $75

• 1 week: Starts at $300

• 1 month: Starts at $1,200

By comparison, the typical cost for a cat boarding specialist ranges from $162 to $486. Some pet boarders may charge additional fees for services such as food, training, grooming, and administering medication.

Find trusted pet sitters and boarders on Airtasker 

Ultimately, whether you choose a pet boarder or a reliable cat or dog watcher, both will make sure your pet’s energy and happiness are in good hands while you’re away. And if you’re planning a holiday, it’s a good idea to book your pet care early as slots can book up faster than you think. 

Just pop a task on Airtasker, and you’ll soon hear from local pet sitters and boarders who’ll guide your pet on an adventure of their own. You’ll also have peace of mind with constant communication with your sitter or boarder, plus the freedom to choose the right care based on reviews and ratings.