Choosing care for your dog or cat while you’re away can feel confusing. Terms like pet sitting, home boarding, and kennels are often used interchangeably — but they actually mean very different things. Understanding the difference helps you pick the option that keeps your pet safe, happy, and stress-free.
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.
Home boarding is when your pet stays at a licensed sitter’s home rather than yours. This can include overnight stays or full-day care (similar to daycare). In the UK, all home boarders must be licensed by their local council, ensuring that:
The home meets safety and hygiene standards
Emergency procedures are in place
Pets are appropriately vaccinated and cared for
The number of animals is manageable
Pros of Boarding:
Pets stay in a carer’s home rather than kennels – more homely and personal.
Can work well for dogs who enjoy being part of a family environment.
Usually fewer pets than a kennel setting, meaning more attention per animal.
Cons of Boarding:
Pets still leave their familiar surroundings, which can cause stress for some.
Not always suited to cats or pets that prefer their own territory.
Your pet may need to get along with other animals in the boarder’s home.
Standards and experience can vary – not all boarders are licensed or equally qualified.
Best for: Pets who are comfortable in a new home environment and enjoy social interaction with other animals.
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.
When deciding between pet sitting, home boarding, or commercial boarding, consider:
Your Pet’s Personality: Do they thrive in new environments or prefer home comforts?
Length of Care Needed: Short visits, daycare, or overnight stays?
Health and Special Needs: Medication, diet, or behavioural support may influence your choice.
Socialisation Needs: Some pets enjoy interaction with other dogs, while others need individual attention.
Budget & Convenience: Compare services, but prioritise quality of care over cost alone.
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.
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.
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