Dog Sitting vs Boarding vs Kennels: Which Is Best for Your Dog or Cat?

What is Pet Sitting?

Pet sitting is when someone comes to your home to care for your pet. Visits can be short, full-day, or overnight, depending on your pet’s needs. Pet sitters typically:

• Feed and water your pet

• Take dogs for walks or play with them

• Give medication, empty litter trays etc

• Provide companionship and reassurance

Pros of Pet Sitting:

• Pets stay in their own home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and smells – less stress and disruption.

• One-to-one care tailored exactly to your pet’s needs and routines (walks, feeding, cuddles, medication).

• Perfect for multi-pet households – cats, dogs, or smaller pets can stay together rather than being separated as they would be in kennels.

• Home security included – someone is there to collect post, keep lights on, and provide a lived-in feel.

• Often more flexible – sitters can combine overnight stays, drop-ins, or extended visits.

Cons of Pet Sitting:

• Availability may be limited in peak seasons (sitters get booked up quickly).

• Some pets may miss the social interaction of other animals they’d get in group settings.

• Cost can be higher than boarding & kennels, especially for longer stays.

Best for: Pets who are happiest in their own home, benefit from one-to-one attention, and can stay with other household animals, while giving owners peace of mind and flexible care.

What is Commercial Boarding / Kennels?

Kennel facilities are larger operations designed to care for multiple pets. These can be privately run, or operated by organisations like the RSPCA, and require licensing. Facilities may offer:

• Daycare and overnight boarding

• Structured exercise and play areas

• Staff trained in pet care and safety

Pros of Kennels:

• Often cheaper than sitting or boarding.

• Availability is usually higher, especially in peak times.

• Some kennels offer on-site vets or specialist facilities.

Cons of Kennels:

• Pets are housed in an unfamiliar environment, which can be stressful.

• Less individual attention due to higher numbers of animals.

• Cats, dogs, or different pets are usually separated.

• May feel more like a “facility” than a home.

Best for: Pets who are sociable, adaptable to new environments, and comfortable in a structured, professional facility.

A Note on Terminology

A common source of confusion is the term pet sitting. True pet sitting means care in your own home. If your dog stays in the sitter’s home, that’s home boarding — which in the UK requires a licence. Always clarify which service is being offered so you know your pet is in the right environment.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose pet sitting, home boarding, or kennels, the right option depends on your pet’s personality and needs. Take time to research, meet sitters, and visit facilities. The more informed you are, the happier and safer your pet will be while you’re away.