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3 min read
Edited ByAlina BradfordFor over 12 years, SafeWise has conducted independent research and testing to write unbiased, human reviews (not robots). Read our methodology.
A 12-year multimedia reporter, Katie tests and reviews security and smart home tech. She’s also featured on outlets like AARP, Forbes, and TechGuySmartBuy.
They may sit in your suitcase or give you the puppy eyes while you pack, but all pet owners know that eventually, they'll have to travel without their furry friends.
But just because you're out of town, doesn't mean they have to be home alone. In-home pet sitters, pop-in visits, cameras, and boarding services are all helpful options for keeping your pet fed and happy while you're away.
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Vet bills are expensive, but pet insurance can help you, your pet-sitter, and your pet in an emergency.
We recommend Lemonade pet health insurance; it's one of the most affordable options available, with customizable policies starting at $10/mo.
While friends, family, and neighbors are generally the cheapest option for pet care while you're on vacation, they might not always be available (or as reliable).
However, professional pet sitters can do more for your furry friend in an emergency. This kind of in-home pet sitting keeps your dog or cat in familiar surroundings, letting the care come to them.
If your pet is a senior or has special needs, this option is worth considering. Professional dog sitters generally ask for higher rates than your loved ones will, but they’re qualified and more experienced with tasks like giving medication or leash training.
Care.com and the Rover dog-sitting app can connect you to pet sitters in your area. These caretakers undergo careful screening to qualify, so you know your pet’s paws are in good hands.
In-home boarding combines the best perks of pet sitting and traditional boarding.
Instead of leaving your pets at home, an in-home boarding professional can watch your furry friend at their home. You’ll have to bring your pets to their location, but they get all the comforts of staying at a house while you’re away.
Like kennel owners, in-home boarders require a license and qualifications to charge for their services. So you can feel satisfied knowing your pets will get exercise, medications, food, and water during your trip.
In-home boarding for dogs is more common, but you can find these same services for cats, birds, fish, and other small pets.
The cost for pet-sitters can vary, but we conducted a quick search on Rover.com and saw that services like dog walking, house sitting, and in-home care tend to range between $25 and $60 per day.
What experience do you have with pets like mine?
Are you insured and bonded?
Can you provide references or reviews?
What does your daily care routine include?
How will you update me while I'm away (texts, photos, etc.)?
If an in-home dog sitter isn’t the best option while you’re on vacation, you can board your pet at a kennel with other pups.
Research to find the most reliable pet boarding services in your area. The best dog-boarding services have puppy play areas for your best friend to meet other dogs and stay entertained while you’re away.
You can also board cats when you leave on vacation, but their enclosure are not as social as the dog areas.
Websites like Care.com can connect you with local kennels and boarders in your area.
Is the facility licensed and clean?
Are staff available overnight or 24/7?
What are the vaccination requirements?
Can you bring your pet’s food, toys, and bedding?
Do they offer playtime, walks, or extra services?
Here are some more important considerations, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
A quick search on our end showed prices for local kennels range between $25 and $100 per day for dog boarding. Factors like pets' medical needs, the length of their stay, and area prices can affect this price, too.
Whether you’re in a different state or a different time zone, pet cameras let you see your furry friend whenever you miss them.
Pet cameras are sufficient on their own if you’re away for short periods, but they pair well with pet-sitting services. If you don’t know your drop-in pet sitter well, you can see your pet and their sitter through the camera.
The best pet cameras have treat dispensers, two-way talk, and other extras to keep your pets entertained. We especially like the Furbo 360° Dog Camera.
Some pet cams can connect to your security system or act as a security camera while you’re away. Check our picks for the best security systems for pet owners.
Be prepared before you leave for your vacation. Leave your vet’s contact information and your pet’s medication schedule with your pet sitter.
If you have a pet with medical issues, we recommend asking a trusted person to stay on your property or hiring a pet sitter to care for your pet in their own home while you’re away.
Sure, but you’ll need to give them clear instructions depending on the difficulty level of administering the medication. That’s why we suggest a qualified, experienced pet sitter instead of a friend or family member.
Paw-sitively. Most services that cater to dogs can also help cat owners. Rover, for example, can connect you with pet sitters, in-home boarding, and in-home care for cats.
On average, pet sitters can cost anywhere from $89 to $278 per day. That said, prices change depending on where you live, how long you’ll be gone, and how many animals you have.
If you decide to take your pet on vacation with you, it’s smart to check out the pet policy at your hotel before leaving.
We like Bring Fido for finding pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, and even vacation activities your pup can enjoy too.
For most pets, especially cats or older dogs, an in-home pet sitter is the least disruptive and most comforting option. For active or social dogs, a reputable boarding facility or pet hotel may be ideal.
It depends! Ultimately, in-home pet sitting is generally the more comfortable and personalized option, while kennel boarding may work well for energetic pets who enjoy activity and interaction. The best choice depends on your pet’s personality, health, and how they handle being away from you.
Product | Best for | Price | Standout feature | Learn more | Read review |
| Affordable pet insurance | Starting at $10/mo. | Deductible: $100–$500 (annual) | Get quote | Read review | |
| Affordable GPS pet tracker | Starting at $49.00 | Collars for cats and dogs | View on Tractive | Read review | |
| Best pet camera | $210.00 | Motion and bark sensor Treat dispenser | View on Amazon | Read review | |
| Best pet-friendly security system | Monitoring starts at $39.99/mo. | Adjustable motion sensitivity | View Packages | Read review | |
| Best dog harness | $54.95 | Reflective; 4-point adjustment | View on Amazon | Read review | |
| Best pet gate | $44.99 | Cat door | View on Amazon | Read review |
Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.
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