Whether you're heading away for the weekend, off on holiday, or just working long hours, finding reliable pet sitting in Southampton can make all the difference. A good pet sitter gives you peace of mind — and keeps your pet happy, safe, and comfortable at home.
Here’s what to know if you’re thinking about booking a local sitter.
Why Choose Pet Sitting?
For many pets, staying at home is far less stressful than a kennel or cattery. They get to stick to their usual routine, sleep in their own bed, and avoid busy, unfamiliar environments. It's especially helpful for pets who are anxious, elderly, or need a bit of extra attention.
Benefits of a pet sitter:
- Your pet gets to stay in their familiar surroundings
- Avoid disruption to their routine
- Get regular updates while you're away
- Choose a more personal, tailored level of care
What to Look For in a Local Pet Sitter
Not sure where to start? Here's what to keep an eye out for when finding a pet sitter in Southampton:
- Experience with your type of pet — from dogs and cats to small animals like rabbits or guinea pigs.
- Insurance and DBS checks – always make sure your sitter has both for peace of mind.
- Knowledge of basic pet care and first aid - qualifications are key!
- Positive reviews or references from other pet owners. Don't be put off it looks like they're just starting out - support a new business and you could be rewarded with care tha'ts a cut above the rest.
- Clear communication and a willingness to meet before the booking.
Types of Pet Sitting Services
Depending on your pet's needs (and your schedule), you’ll find pet sitters usually offer a range of services:
- Drop-in visits – perfect for feeding, letting your dog out, or spending a bit of time with your cat or rabbits.
- Overnight stays – good for pets that have separation anxiety or need medication at night.
- Dog walking – many sitters offer this too!
- Small animal care – including rabbits, hamsters, reptiles, and birds.
Making the Experience Smoother
Once you’ve found a sitter, a little preparation goes a long way:
- Schedule a meet-and-greet so your sitter and pet can get familiar beforehand and see if you're a good fit together.
- Leave clear notes about feeding times, routines, medication, and quirks. Your sitter should ask all about this in your meet & greet.
- Provide contact details in case of emergency as well as a back-up in case you're unavailable.
- Stock up on food, litter, and other supplies that your sitter might need during their visits.
Finding Pet Sitters in Southampton
You’ve got a few good options locally:
- Pet sitting websites like Pawshake, or Rover
- Local Facebook groups or community boards
- Recommendations from your vet, dog walker, or groomer
- Independent local sitters with their own websites or social pages
- Google Maps can show great pet sitters nearby via an easy map view.
Pet sitters don't usually travel outside of their local area (and those that do may charge a premium to cover travel expenses), so look for someone nearby, especially if you’ll need regular visits or last-minute help!
Finding the right pet sitter can take a bit of time, but it's worth exploring your options. You’ll be able to head out knowing your pet is being looked after by someone reliable, caring, and close to home.
If you're based in Southampton and looking for a friendly, dependable sitter, feel free to reach out — we’re always happy to chat, answer questions, or see if we’re a good fit for your pet!