Last Updated on October 31, 2023 by Fumipets
Dog Boarding vs. Pet Sitting: Which is Right for Your Pup?
Vacations are already here, and you are all excited about your trip. What about your pet dog? Have you prepared for its stay? If not, we will help you choose between pet sitting and boarding. If you are from Canada, you must have heard of dog daycare downtown Toronto and want to avail of its services. But is your pet ready for sitting or boarding? Let us figure it out.
What is Pet Boarding?
Pet boarding is like a hotel where all the pets are provided with bedding and basic amenities by professional staff. It is a safe place to leave your pet when traveling. But, to stay in pet boarding, the pet has to be comfortable to stay away from home.
What is Pet Sitting?
Pet Sitting is a service provided by professionals to take care of your pet at your home when you are away. The service is suitable when you have to go away for a few days.
Pet Boarding Vs. Pet Sitting?
Pet boarding and sitting are two different facilities you can avail for your dog when you go on vacation. Let us try and understand their differences to help you choose the right option for you.
Socialization: If you choose pet boarding for your dog, your dog will be happy because it will have the company of other dogs to mix up and spend time with. It will be a socialization time for your dog. It will make friends, boyfriend or girlfriend, and would be happy.
Pet sitting services, however, don’t offer this socialization facility, as your pet will be taken care of by a professional who will come over to your place to look after your dog. So, the only person your dog might interact with is the pet sitter.
Safety: Pet boarding service providers ensure the safety of every pet. Each pet is provided their own space that no other pet can enter. Each pet is provided with a dedicated small space to relax. These accommodations can vary from kennels to private rooms. You will have to check for the area of the space provided before renting one for your dog.
On the other hand, your dog is safe at home with your pet sitter, but it still has doors to escape. If your dog doesn’t mix well with the sitter, it may run away or cause problems that may put the dog’s safety at risk. Your dog is safe at home as long as you are with him.
Costing: If costing is on your mind, you may look up different dog boarding service providers and dog sitters for pricing. The result could be a mix. Some dog boarders may charge more, while some dog sitters may charge more. It is the service you must consider when hiring a sitter or a boarding. Don’t go for low-priced services. Hire a service that is most suitable for your dog.
Homesickness: If your dog loves to be around the house and can’t sleep anywhere beside its bed, dog boarding can be a devastating choice. When choosing between dog boarding and sitting, consider the comfort of your dog. You don’t want to return home to find your dog depressed. So think of its happiness before boarding.
Personal Attention: Dog boarding service providers have many pets to care for, so personal attention to your dog is nearly impossible. They will look after your dog in a group and ensure the safety and availability of basic amenities.
The dog sitter, however, will have only your dog to take care of. You can expect personal attention from him. Your dog will have a human company to play with and be happy with. The sitter will ensure the dog has eaten properly, is sleeping adequately, and is clean and happy.
Conclusion:
Staying away from your pet can be a painful experience. If you can’t bring your dog on vacation, you can ensure its comfort and happiness by availing the right services. A pet sitter is suitable for pets who are difficult to adjust outside their home and need special attention. Pet boarding is suitable for pets with the experience of staying away from home with other pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between dog boarding and pet sitting?
Dog boarding typically involves leaving your dog at a dedicated facility, such as a kennel or doggy daycare, while pet sitting entails hiring a pet sitter to care for your dog in your own home. The key distinction is the location where your dog will be looked after.
Which option is better for my dog’s comfort and well-being?
The choice between dog boarding and pet sitting depends on your dog’s personality and needs. If your dog is social and enjoys the company of other dogs, boarding might be suitable. However, if your dog is anxious or prefers a familiar environment, pet sitting in your home could be a better choice.
Are there specific situations where one option is more advantageous than the other?
Yes, there are situations where one option may be more advantageous. For instance, if your dog has separation anxiety, pet sitting might reduce their stress. On the other hand, if your dog is highly active and enjoys playing with other dogs, a boarding facility with ample space and social interactions could be a better fit.
What should I consider when choosing a dog boarding facility or a pet sitter?
When selecting a boarding facility, consider factors like cleanliness, staff qualifications, and the social environment. When choosing a pet sitter, look for a reputable and experienced professional, and ensure they have excellent references. In both cases, consider your dog’s specific needs and preferences.
Is one option more cost-effective than the other?
The cost of dog boarding and pet sitting can vary depending on location, services provided, and the duration of care. Generally, dog boarding facilities might offer different pricing tiers, while pet sitting may involve hourly or daily rates. It’s essential to compare costs and services to determine which option aligns better with your budget and your dog’s needs.
