Free Pet Sitting: Alternative Solutions for Your Holidays

TOITCHEZMOI

Going on holiday is exciting… but leaving your pet behind can be heartbreaking. After all, they’re part of the family, and you want the very best for them.

And when friends, neighbours, or relatives aren’t available, it can quickly become stressful. The good news? There are now simple, reliable — and sometimes even free — solutions to care for your pet while you’re away.

Here are the best options to travel with peace of mind, knowing your furry friend is in good hands.

1. Home visits: keeping familiar routines

Some pets are deeply attached to their environment. With home pet sitting, your companion stays in their own space and keeps their habits.

A pet sitter visits regularly to feed, play, walk, and provide reassuring company.

  • Cost: €5 to €25 per visit
  • Ideal for reducing stress
  • Flexible schedule

2. Host families: a home away from home

Your pet stays with a caring host family, enjoying constant companionship in a warm environment. Perfect for sociable animals.

Always take time to connect with the host beforehand — your pet’s comfort matters.

  • Cost: €5 to €30 per day
  • Family atmosphere
  • Check the environment in advance

3. Boarding kennels: professional care

Boarding facilities offer structured, professional care with daily supervision and trained staff.

A reliable option, especially for longer stays.

  • Cost: €8 to €20 per day
  • Professional supervision
  • Daily care

Good to know: if you choose paid pet care, make sure the provider has the proper certifications and insurance.

4. Pet care exchange: community-based support

A simple and free solution: you look after someone else’s pet while they’re away, and they do the same for you.

5. Pet sitting in exchange for accommodation: a win-win solution

What if someone could care for your pet… while staying in your home?

This is exactly how housing in exchange for services works: a trusted person stays in your home for free in return for taking care of your pet and property.

Benefits include:

  • Your pet stays in a familiar environment
  • Your home is occupied and secure
  • No cost for pet care
  • A meaningful human exchange

For extra peace of mind, check out our safety guide.

You can also explore home sitting, a great option for longer absences.

Because they rely on you

Every summer, thousands of pets are abandoned simply because no care solution was found.

Planning ahead means protecting your pet’s wellbeing and leaving with complete peace of mind.

Take action

Looking for a simple, human and cost-effective solution?

Create your free listing and find someone you trust to care for your pet.