Gone are the days of vacationing pet owners underpaying neighborhood teenagers to watch their dogs and cats while they’re away. Now, they increasingly rely on an entirely different source for their pet care needs: their smartphone. Like nearly everything else these days, there’s an app for that! Pet sitting apps make the task of finding reliable dog walkers and cat cuddlers as simple and secure as possible. As you make your summer vacation plans, you might be wondering if downloading a pet sitting app could make your life a little easier. To help you out, we’ve rounded up reviews of what we think are the 10 best pet sitting apps available this year. After you read our thoughts, stick around for an in-depth guide to help you compare the apps and pick the one that best fits your needs.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2023
Image Product Details
Best Overall
Wag!
Available in all 50 states
Choose your own caregiver
All caregivers background-checked
Check iOS App
Best Value
Rover
Detailed search parameters
Large database of caregivers
All sitters are background checked
Check iOS App
Premium Choice
Trusted House Sitters
No fee for the actual pet sitter
Easy to use and search for jobs or sitters
Unlimited pet sits are covered with the annual fee
Check Website
PetBacker
Services available in 50 countries
Good for last-minute pet sitting needs
Simplifies the hiring process by matching you with 5 potential sitters
Check iOS App
Fetch
Simplified hiring process
Last-minute pet sitting coverage is available
All caregivers background-checked, bonded, and insured
Check iOS App
The 10 Best Pet Sitting Apps
- Wag! – Best Overall
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Walking, sitting, boarding, training
Background checks: Yes
Our choice for the best overall pet-sitting app is Wag!, which offers access to more than 150,000 caregivers spread throughout all 50 states. Wag is known first as a dog walking app, but it offers much more as well. This app also allows you to look for a pet sitter who will come to your home or board your pet in theirs if you prefer. You can even arrange for drop-off and pick-up services. Wag performs extensive background checks on all caregivers on their site, including evaluating their ability to interact with pets. Each caregiver has a detailed profile for you to browse, including any special skills, experience level, and reviews from previous clients. The Wag app allows you to GPS track your pet on their walks, communicate directly with the caregiver, and offers 24/7 support to users. Wag insures all their services for even more peace of mind. However, you must pay for services with a credit or debit card to access support and insurance. Although Wag pet sitters are available in over 4,600 cities, pet parents in less populated areas may have trouble finding a caregiver. Pros
All caregivers background-checked
Available in all 50 states
Choose your own caregiver
Cons
Must pay with a card to access support and insurance
It may be hard to find care in less populated areas
- Rover – Best Value
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Walking, sitting, boarding, daycare, drop-in visits
Background checks: Yes
Our choice for the best pet sitting app for the money is Rover, which has one of the largest networks of pet caregivers of any service, including international locations. Rover offers multiple services besides pet sitting, including daycare and boarding options at the caregiver’s home. When searching Rover’s database for pet sitters, you can be very detailed in your parameters, including whether the caregiver has pets or children in their home and if they have a fenced yard. These extra details really make it easier to find a good match for your pet. For security, Rover performs background checks on all caregivers, offers 24/7 support, and provides a guarantee to cover vet care or property damage should something unexpected occur, with some exceptions. The Rover app allows you to handle all aspects of booking a pet sitter, from browsing available profiles, arranging a Meet and Greet, and processing payment. In fact, you are only allowed to pay through the app, with no cash or check options available. Pros
Detailed search parameters
All sitters are background checked
Large database of caregivers
Cons
No cash or check payments are available
Some exceptions to coverage guarantee
- Trusted House Sitters – Premium Choice
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting
Background checks: Yes
If you love to travel and live in a place others love to travel to, then Trusted House Sitters could be the perfect app for you. This app connects people who need pet sitters with animal lovers who are willing to care for their fur babies in exchange for a free place to stay and the chance to experience a new location. You’ll pay an annual membership fee for access to the database and app, but you don’t pay for the pet sitters themselves. They just get free lodging in (hopefully) a cool spot they can explore when they aren’t cuddling your kitty or walking your dog. As you can imagine, this app is most useful for people who live in cities, tourist destinations, or other sought-after vacation spots. The app requires background checks and allows you to review profiles and interview prospective caregivers to find the right match. It also offers a combined membership if you need petsitting services but want to offer them as well for your own vacation. Many users find this app simple to understand, with an excellent search function. However, a few glitches, such as inconsistent notifications, have been noted. Pros
Unlimited pet sits are covered with the annual fee
No fee for the actual pet sitter
Easy to use and search for jobs or sitters
Cons
Not as useful if you live somewhere people don’t like to visit
The app can be glitchy, especially with notifications
- PetBacker
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, boarding, walking, daycare, pet taxi, grooming, training, photography, veterinarian
Background checks: No
If you don’t have time to browse through dozens of potential pet sitter profiles, the Petbacker app may be the one to help you out. This app is also a good option for international pet owners, with caregivers available in 50 countries. Petbacker helps you find not only pet sitters but nearly any other pet-related service you might need. Start by filling out a simple request form, and the app will match you with up to 5 potential caregivers in your area. From there, you can view profiles, receive quotes, and arrange a Meet and Greet to decide on the right sitter. You do have to pay a deposit for the Meet and Greet, however. And if none of the 5 options work out, you’ll need to request more. Petbacker does not perform background checks but maintains strict hiring standards for caregivers on their site, reportedly only accepting 30% of the employment applications they receive. All services are insured for extra peace of mind. Users noted that the app was especially good for finding last-minute pet sitters. Pros
Services available in 50 countries
Simplifies the hiring process by matching you with 5 potential sitters
Good for last-minute pet sitting needs
Cons
No background checks
Must pay a deposit for Meet and Greet
- Fetch
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, boarding, walking, daycare, pet taxi, medicine administration
Background checks: Yes
Fetch is a nationwide pet care service with independent, local franchise locations. Services are scheduled through the local franchises, so there’s no need to search through profiles. Once you contact Fetch, they will match you with two sitters, a primary and a backup, and schedule a free in-home consultation. If you like your new sitter (s), they’re permanently assigned to you, saving you the hassle of connecting with a new caregiver each time. All Fetch caregivers must pass a background check and be bonded and insured. Besides pet sitting, Fetch offers some unique services such as pet medication administration visits and wedding day services–dropping off and picking up your pet to take part in your nuptials! You probably won’t have as many available caregivers to choose from with Fetch, and you don’t have as much say in the screening process beyond saying yay or nay to the options given to you. Fetch is especially good at covering last-minute pet sitting needs, however. Pros
Simplified hiring process
Last-minute pet sitting coverage is available
All caregivers background-checked, bonded, and insured
Cons
Not a nationwide database, local franchises only
Less control over who to hire since they’re chosen by the service
- Meowtel
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, drop-in visits
Background checks: Yes
If you’re exclusively a cat owner and like the idea of a pet sitting service geared specifically toward our feline friends, Meowtel might be just what you’re looking for! This app has an extremely thorough hiring process, requiring potential cat sitters to pass a background check, supply references, and receive coaching to ensure they know what they’re doing. You have the option to search for cat sitters in your area on your own, or the app support specialist can do it for you. The sitters will review your information and accept if they feel they are a good fit, at which point you can set up a Meet and Greet. All cat sitters are bonded and insured and will send photos and videos of your kitty while you are away. Although new cat sitters are added regularly, Meowtel caregivers are not available in every state and are primarily concentrated around cities. Rural and small-town cat owners may be out of luck. Most users reported positive experiences with this app and their cat sitters. Pros
Entirely cat-focused
Very thorough hiring and vetting process
Easy to use the app
Cons
Not available in all 50 states
Most sitters located near cities
- Camp BowWow
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, daycare, boarding
Background checks: Yes
Camp Bow Wow primarily functions as a doggy daycare and boarding location. However, many locations also offer pet sitting, including overnight stays, not just for dogs but other types of pets as well. The Camp Bow Wow app is a good option for dog owners who want doggy daycare, with pet sitting available when they travel. Because both services are provided by the camp, chances are your pup’s pet sitter will be a counselor they’re already familiar with. Camp Bow Wow requires staff to pass a background check and be trained in pet first aid and CPR. All services are also insured and bonded. For times your dog is cared for at a Camp Bow Wow location, the app allows you to access webcams to view your pup during their stay. Not every Camp Bow Wow offers pet sitting. In addition, locations are most concentrated in cities, primarily in the eastern half of the United States. Pros
Sitters trained in pet first aid and CPR
A good option for those who need daycare along with pet sitting services
Cons
Not every location offers pet sitting
Types of pets cared for also vary by location
- Sitter City
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Pet services vary by sitter, babysitting, senior care
Background checks: On request
Sitter City is primarily a human babysitter-finding app, powered by the daycare and preschool chain Bright Horizons. However, it also features pet care providers. With Sitter City, you post your own job details–such as the number of pets, when you need care, and any special needs. Local pet caregivers will then contact you directly to apply for the job. Sitter City will provide basic or enhanced background checks for individual sitters upon request and for an additional fee. Each caregiver has a detailed profile to review, including pricing, services offered, and availability. You can communicate with sitters directly through the app. Sitter City is the best of both worlds for pet and kid parents, allowing them to arrange care for all their charges in one location. It has a fairly extensive network of pet caregivers, not just concentrated in more populated areas. Pros
A good option for pet owners who also have kids
A nationwide network of caregivers, even in less populated areas
Very detailed profiles are available
Cons
Background checks require an extra fee
Pet sitting services vary by the caregiver, no way to predict what’s available in your area
- Care
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Pet services vary by sitter, babysitting, senior care, housekeeping, tutoring
Background checks: Yes, for pet sitters, on request for other personnel
Care is another app geared primarily toward finding human helpers that’s even more versatile than Sitter City, allowing you to search for caregivers, but also tutors, and housecleaners. Like Sitter City, Care also maintains a database of petsitters, over 50,000 according to their website. The app functions similarly to Sitter City, where you create your own job posting. You can receive contacts from potential sitters or browse through profiles and message them yourself. The Care app is not a good option if you have a last-minute pet sitting need, as it may take potential sitters several days to respond to a message. Care does require petsitters to fill out a yearly background check, but it’s pretty basic, and they still recommend performing additional vetting on potential caregivers. Pros
Good for people who need other help besides petsitters
Nationwide database
You can contact and evaluate caregivers yourself
Cons
Not suitable for last-minute pet sitting needs
Additional background checks recommended
- Thumbtack
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Pet services vary by sitter, all types of professionals
Background checks: Not specified, likely varies by provider
Thumbtack is designed to help you connect with service professionals of all types, including petsitters. Unlike the other apps on our list, the providers listed are primarily professional pet caregivers. While that means you’ll likely find pet sitters who are insured, bonded, experienced, and offer background checks, you may end up paying more for services as well. Thumbtack has a large database of professionals, covering all 50 states. Get started by entering your zip code and browsing through profiles of available petsitters. Depending on your specific needs, it could take some time and negotiation before you settle on the right pet sitter fit. Pros
All types of service professionals are available
Ability to negotiate on terms and prices
Cons
Background checks are not guaranteed
Professionals may be more expensive
How To Choose a Pet Sitting App As you can see, you have quite a few options when it comes to deciding on a pet sitting app. Because you don’t want to leave your beloved pet with just anyone, it’s vital that you feel comfortable with whoever you choose. To help you decide between the apps available, we’ve narrowed down some key points to consider.
How Strict Are Their Hiring Policies? Starting with trustworthy, reliable employees is key for any app trying to appeal to anxious pet parents. There’s a reason we made whether an app requires background checks one of our highlighted metrics for each review. Background checks won’t necessarily tell you how good someone is with animals, but it’s an easy way to offer peace of mind about a stranger who will be spending time in your home. If an app doesn’t require background checks, look at what other steps they take to ensure the reliability of their caregivers. For your own peace of mind, you may choose to run your own background check, whether the app does as well. How Detailed Are the Petsitter Profiles? Most of the apps we reviewed require you to check out petsitter’s profiles to determine if you want to take the next step and contact them. You’ll save yourself some time if you can quickly rule a sitter in or out based on the information on their profile. For example, can you view reviews from previous clients? Do you prefer a petsitter with previous veterinary experience for a pet with special medical needs? What special skills or certifications does the pet sitter have? Are they even available on the dates you need them? Are You Able to Meet the Petsitter In-Person Before Hiring Them? It doesn’t matter how good someone looks on paper if you or your pet doesn’t click with them. Most of the apps we reviewed offer the option for Meet and Greets, although some require you to pay a deposit first. If you’re using Trusted HouseSitters, however, your prospective caregiver most likely won’t be local. In that case, you’ll need to decide if a virtual meet-up will suffice or come up with another way to feel comfortable choosing them. Does The App Offer Insurance or Guarantees? No matter how careful you and the pet sitter are, some pets have a knack for getting into trouble. Accidents happen, whether it involves your pet or something breaking around your house. Whether or not the pet sitter is at fault, you’ll likely feel better knowing there is a solution. Look for apps and pet sitters who are insured and bonded or offer guarantees to cover vet care or damages. Even with these assurances, it’s still a good idea to get a pet insurance policy for your animal. Better safe than sorry, as they say.
See also: 10 Best Apps for Cats: Top Choices for Modern Cat Raising
Conclusion As our best overall pet-sitting app, Wag offers peace of mind with its extensive background checks and rigorous hiring process combined with an easy-to-use app. Our best value app, Rover, offers one of the largest databases of caretakers, spread across the entire U.S. and even internationally. In all the hustle and bustle of planning your vacation, don’t forget to plan for your pets. Hopefully, our reviews of the top pet sitting apps will help you quickly mark that task off your pre-vacation checklist. Next stop: relaxation! See also: Are Dog Walking Apps Safe? Should They Be Trusted?
Featured Image Credit: Megan Betteridge, Shutterstock
Gone are the days of vacationing pet owners underpaying neighborhood teenagers to watch their dogs and cats while they’re away. Now, they increasingly rely on an entirely different source for their pet care needs: their smartphone. Like nearly everything else these days, there’s an app for that! Pet sitting apps make the task of finding reliable dog walkers and cat cuddlers as simple and secure as possible. As you make your summer vacation plans, you might be wondering if downloading a pet sitting app could make your life a little easier. To help you out, we’ve rounded up reviews of what we think are the 10 best pet sitting apps available this year. After you read our thoughts, stick around for an in-depth guide to help you compare the apps and pick the one that best fits your needs.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2023
Image Product Details
Best Overall
Wag!
Available in all 50 states
Choose your own caregiver
All caregivers background-checked
Check iOS App
Best Value
Rover
Detailed search parameters
Large database of caregivers
All sitters are background checked
Check iOS App
Premium Choice
Trusted House Sitters
No fee for the actual pet sitter
Easy to use and search for jobs or sitters
Unlimited pet sits are covered with the annual fee
Check Website
PetBacker
Services available in 50 countries
Good for last-minute pet sitting needs
Simplifies the hiring process by matching you with 5 potential sitters
Check iOS App
Fetch
Simplified hiring process
Last-minute pet sitting coverage is available
All caregivers background-checked, bonded, and insured
Check iOS App
The 10 Best Pet Sitting Apps
- Wag! – Best Overall
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Walking, sitting, boarding, training
Background checks: Yes
Our choice for the best overall pet-sitting app is Wag!, which offers access to more than 150,000 caregivers spread throughout all 50 states. Wag is known first as a dog walking app, but it offers much more as well. This app also allows you to look for a pet sitter who will come to your home or board your pet in theirs if you prefer. You can even arrange for drop-off and pick-up services.
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Walking, sitting, boarding, training
Background checks: Yes
Get the iOS App Here
Get Android App Here
Wag performs extensive background checks on all caregivers on their site, including evaluating their ability to interact with pets. Each caregiver has a detailed profile for you to browse, including any special skills, experience level, and reviews from previous clients. The Wag app allows you to GPS track your pet on their walks, communicate directly with the caregiver, and offers 24/7 support to users. Wag insures all their services for even more peace of mind. However, you must pay for services with a credit or debit card to access support and insurance.
Although Wag pet sitters are available in over 4,600 cities, pet parents in less populated areas may have trouble finding a caregiver.
Pros
All caregivers background-checked
Available in all 50 states
Choose your own caregiver
Cons
Must pay with a card to access support and insurance
It may be hard to find care in less populated areas
- Rover – Best Value
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Walking, sitting, boarding, daycare, drop-in visits
Background checks: Yes
Our choice for the best pet sitting app for the money is Rover, which has one of the largest networks of pet caregivers of any service, including international locations. Rover offers multiple services besides pet sitting, including daycare and boarding options at the caregiver’s home. When searching Rover’s database for pet sitters, you can be very detailed in your parameters, including whether the caregiver has pets or children in their home and if they have a fenced yard. These extra details really make it easier to find a good match for your pet.
All caregivers background-checked
Available in all 50 states
Choose your own caregiver
- All caregivers background-checked
- Available in all 50 states
- Choose your own caregiver
Must pay with a card to access support and insurance
It may be hard to find care in less populated areas
- Must pay with a card to access support and insurance
- It may be hard to find care in less populated areas
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Walking, sitting, boarding, daycare, drop-in visits
Background checks: Yes
For security, Rover performs background checks on all caregivers, offers 24/7 support, and provides a guarantee to cover vet care or property damage should something unexpected occur, with some exceptions. The Rover app allows you to handle all aspects of booking a pet sitter, from browsing available profiles, arranging a Meet and Greet, and processing payment. In fact, you are only allowed to pay through the app, with no cash or check options available.
Pros
Detailed search parameters
All sitters are background checked
Large database of caregivers
Cons
No cash or check payments are available
Some exceptions to coverage guarantee
- Trusted House Sitters – Premium Choice
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting
Background checks: Yes
If you love to travel and live in a place others love to travel to, then Trusted House Sitters could be the perfect app for you. This app connects people who need pet sitters with animal lovers who are willing to care for their fur babies in exchange for a free place to stay and the chance to experience a new location. You’ll pay an annual membership fee for access to the database and app, but you don’t pay for the pet sitters themselves. They just get free lodging in (hopefully) a cool spot they can explore when they aren’t cuddling your kitty or walking your dog.
Detailed search parameters
All sitters are background checked
Large database of caregivers
- Detailed search parameters
- All sitters are background checked
- Large database of caregivers
No cash or check payments are available
Some exceptions to coverage guarantee
- No cash or check payments are available
- Some exceptions to coverage guarantee
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting
Background checks: Yes
As you can imagine, this app is most useful for people who live in cities, tourist destinations, or other sought-after vacation spots. The app requires background checks and allows you to review profiles and interview prospective caregivers to find the right match. It also offers a combined membership if you need petsitting services but want to offer them as well for your own vacation. Many users find this app simple to understand, with an excellent search function. However, a few glitches, such as inconsistent notifications, have been noted.
Pros
Unlimited pet sits are covered with the annual fee
No fee for the actual pet sitter
Easy to use and search for jobs or sitters
Cons
Not as useful if you live somewhere people don’t like to visit
The app can be glitchy, especially with notifications
- PetBacker
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, boarding, walking, daycare, pet taxi, grooming, training, photography, veterinarian
Background checks: No
If you don’t have time to browse through dozens of potential pet sitter profiles, the Petbacker app may be the one to help you out. This app is also a good option for international pet owners, with caregivers available in 50 countries. Petbacker helps you find not only pet sitters but nearly any other pet-related service you might need. Start by filling out a simple request form, and the app will match you with up to 5 potential caregivers in your area. From there, you can view profiles, receive quotes, and arrange a Meet and Greet to decide on the right sitter.
Unlimited pet sits are covered with the annual fee
No fee for the actual pet sitter
Easy to use and search for jobs or sitters
- Unlimited pet sits are covered with the annual fee
- No fee for the actual pet sitter
- Easy to use and search for jobs or sitters
Not as useful if you live somewhere people don’t like to visit
The app can be glitchy, especially with notifications
- Not as useful if you live somewhere people don’t like to visit
- The app can be glitchy, especially with notifications
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, boarding, walking, daycare, pet taxi, grooming, training, photography, veterinarian
Background checks: No
You do have to pay a deposit for the Meet and Greet, however. And if none of the 5 options work out, you’ll need to request more. Petbacker does not perform background checks but maintains strict hiring standards for caregivers on their site, reportedly only accepting 30% of the employment applications they receive. All services are insured for extra peace of mind. Users noted that the app was especially good for finding last-minute pet sitters.
Pros
Services available in 50 countries
Simplifies the hiring process by matching you with 5 potential sitters
Good for last-minute pet sitting needs
Cons
No background checks
Must pay a deposit for Meet and Greet
- Fetch
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, boarding, walking, daycare, pet taxi, medicine administration
Background checks: Yes
Fetch is a nationwide pet care service with independent, local franchise locations. Services are scheduled through the local franchises, so there’s no need to search through profiles. Once you contact Fetch, they will match you with two sitters, a primary and a backup, and schedule a free in-home consultation. If you like your new sitter (s), they’re permanently assigned to you, saving you the hassle of connecting with a new caregiver each time. All Fetch caregivers must pass a background check and be bonded and insured.
Services available in 50 countries
Simplifies the hiring process by matching you with 5 potential sitters
Good for last-minute pet sitting needs
- Services available in 50 countries
- Simplifies the hiring process by matching you with 5 potential sitters
- Good for last-minute pet sitting needs
No background checks
Must pay a deposit for Meet and Greet
- No background checks
- Must pay a deposit for Meet and Greet
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, boarding, walking, daycare, pet taxi, medicine administration
Background checks: Yes
Besides pet sitting, Fetch offers some unique services such as pet medication administration visits and wedding day services–dropping off and picking up your pet to take part in your nuptials! You probably won’t have as many available caregivers to choose from with Fetch, and you don’t have as much say in the screening process beyond saying yay or nay to the options given to you. Fetch is especially good at covering last-minute pet sitting needs, however.
Pros
Simplified hiring process
Last-minute pet sitting coverage is available
All caregivers background-checked, bonded, and insured
Cons
Not a nationwide database, local franchises only
Less control over who to hire since they’re chosen by the service
- Meowtel
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, drop-in visits
Background checks: Yes
If you’re exclusively a cat owner and like the idea of a pet sitting service geared specifically toward our feline friends, Meowtel might be just what you’re looking for! This app has an extremely thorough hiring process, requiring potential cat sitters to pass a background check, supply references, and receive coaching to ensure they know what they’re doing. You have the option to search for cat sitters in your area on your own, or the app support specialist can do it for you. The sitters will review your information and accept if they feel they are a good fit, at which point you can set up a Meet and Greet.
Simplified hiring process
Last-minute pet sitting coverage is available
All caregivers background-checked, bonded, and insured
- Simplified hiring process
- Last-minute pet sitting coverage is available
- All caregivers background-checked, bonded, and insured
Not a nationwide database, local franchises only
Less control over who to hire since they’re chosen by the service
- Not a nationwide database, local franchises only
- Less control over who to hire since they’re chosen by the service
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, drop-in visits
Background checks: Yes
All cat sitters are bonded and insured and will send photos and videos of your kitty while you are away. Although new cat sitters are added regularly, Meowtel caregivers are not available in every state and are primarily concentrated around cities. Rural and small-town cat owners may be out of luck. Most users reported positive experiences with this app and their cat sitters.
Pros
Entirely cat-focused
Very thorough hiring and vetting process
Easy to use the app
Cons
Not available in all 50 states
Most sitters located near cities
- Camp BowWow
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, daycare, boarding
Background checks: Yes
Camp Bow Wow primarily functions as a doggy daycare and boarding location. However, many locations also offer pet sitting, including overnight stays, not just for dogs but other types of pets as well. The Camp Bow Wow app is a good option for dog owners who want doggy daycare, with pet sitting available when they travel. Because both services are provided by the camp, chances are your pup’s pet sitter will be a counselor they’re already familiar with.
Entirely cat-focused
Very thorough hiring and vetting process
Easy to use the app
- Entirely cat-focused
- Very thorough hiring and vetting process
- Easy to use the app
Not available in all 50 states
Most sitters located near cities
- Not available in all 50 states
- Most sitters located near cities
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Sitting, daycare, boarding
Background checks: Yes
Camp Bow Wow requires staff to pass a background check and be trained in pet first aid and CPR. All services are also insured and bonded. For times your dog is cared for at a Camp Bow Wow location, the app allows you to access webcams to view your pup during their stay. Not every Camp Bow Wow offers pet sitting. In addition, locations are most concentrated in cities, primarily in the eastern half of the United States.
Pros
Sitters trained in pet first aid and CPR
A good option for those who need daycare along with pet sitting services
Cons
Not every location offers pet sitting
Types of pets cared for also vary by location
- Sitter City
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Pet services vary by sitter, babysitting, senior care
Background checks: On request
Sitter City is primarily a human babysitter-finding app, powered by the daycare and preschool chain Bright Horizons. However, it also features pet care providers. With Sitter City, you post your own job details–such as the number of pets, when you need care, and any special needs. Local pet caregivers will then contact you directly to apply for the job. Sitter City will provide basic or enhanced background checks for individual sitters upon request and for an additional fee. Each caregiver has a detailed profile to review, including pricing, services offered, and availability. You can communicate with sitters directly through the app.
Sitters trained in pet first aid and CPR
A good option for those who need daycare along with pet sitting services
- Sitters trained in pet first aid and CPR
- A good option for those who need daycare along with pet sitting services
Not every location offers pet sitting
Types of pets cared for also vary by location
- Not every location offers pet sitting
- Types of pets cared for also vary by location
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Pet services vary by sitter, babysitting, senior care
Background checks: On request
Sitter City is the best of both worlds for pet and kid parents, allowing them to arrange care for all their charges in one location. It has a fairly extensive network of pet caregivers, not just concentrated in more populated areas.
Pros
A good option for pet owners who also have kids
A nationwide network of caregivers, even in less populated areas
Very detailed profiles are available
Cons
Background checks require an extra fee
Pet sitting services vary by the caregiver, no way to predict what’s available in your area
- Care
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Pet services vary by sitter, babysitting, senior care, housekeeping, tutoring
Background checks: Yes, for pet sitters, on request for other personnel
Care is another app geared primarily toward finding human helpers that’s even more versatile than Sitter City, allowing you to search for caregivers, but also tutors, and housecleaners. Like Sitter City, Care also maintains a database of petsitters, over 50,000 according to their website. The app functions similarly to Sitter City, where you create your own job posting. You can receive contacts from potential sitters or browse through profiles and message them yourself. The Care app is not a good option if you have a last-minute pet sitting need, as it may take potential sitters several days to respond to a message.
A good option for pet owners who also have kids
A nationwide network of caregivers, even in less populated areas
Very detailed profiles are available
- A good option for pet owners who also have kids
- A nationwide network of caregivers, even in less populated areas
- Very detailed profiles are available
Background checks require an extra fee
Pet sitting services vary by the caregiver, no way to predict what’s available in your area
- Background checks require an extra fee
- Pet sitting services vary by the caregiver, no way to predict what’s available in your area
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Pet services vary by sitter, babysitting, senior care, housekeeping, tutoring
Background checks: Yes, for pet sitters, on request for other personnel
Care does require petsitters to fill out a yearly background check, but it’s pretty basic, and they still recommend performing additional vetting on potential caregivers.
Pros
Good for people who need other help besides petsitters
Nationwide database
You can contact and evaluate caregivers yourself
Cons
Not suitable for last-minute pet sitting needs
Additional background checks recommended
- Thumbtack
Get the iOS App Here Get Android App Here
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Pet services vary by sitter, all types of professionals
Background checks: Not specified, likely varies by provider
Thumbtack is designed to help you connect with service professionals of all types, including petsitters. Unlike the other apps on our list, the providers listed are primarily professional pet caregivers. While that means you’ll likely find pet sitters who are insured, bonded, experienced, and offer background checks, you may end up paying more for services as well. Thumbtack has a large database of professionals, covering all 50 states.
Good for people who need other help besides petsitters
Nationwide database
You can contact and evaluate caregivers yourself
- Good for people who need other help besides petsitters
- Nationwide database
- You can contact and evaluate caregivers yourself
Not suitable for last-minute pet sitting needs
Additional background checks recommended
- Not suitable for last-minute pet sitting needs
- Additional background checks recommended
Available for: IOS, Android
Services available: Pet services vary by sitter, all types of professionals
Background checks: Not specified, likely varies by provider
Get started by entering your zip code and browsing through profiles of available petsitters. Depending on your specific needs, it could take some time and negotiation before you settle on the right pet sitter fit.
Pros
All types of service professionals are available
Ability to negotiate on terms and prices
Cons
Background checks are not guaranteed
Professionals may be more expensive
All types of service professionals are available
Ability to negotiate on terms and prices
- All types of service professionals are available
- Ability to negotiate on terms and prices
Background checks are not guaranteed
Professionals may be more expensive
- Background checks are not guaranteed
- Professionals may be more expensive
How To Choose a Pet Sitting App
As you can see, you have quite a few options when it comes to deciding on a pet sitting app. Because you don’t want to leave your beloved pet with just anyone, it’s vital that you feel comfortable with whoever you choose. To help you decide between the apps available, we’ve narrowed down some key points to consider.
How Strict Are Their Hiring Policies?
Starting with trustworthy, reliable employees is key for any app trying to appeal to anxious pet parents. There’s a reason we made whether an app requires background checks one of our highlighted metrics for each review. Background checks won’t necessarily tell you how good someone is with animals, but it’s an easy way to offer peace of mind about a stranger who will be spending time in your home. If an app doesn’t require background checks, look at what other steps they take to ensure the reliability of their caregivers. For your own peace of mind, you may choose to run your own background check, whether the app does as well.
How Detailed Are the Petsitter Profiles?
Most of the apps we reviewed require you to check out petsitter’s profiles to determine if you want to take the next step and contact them. You’ll save yourself some time if you can quickly rule a sitter in or out based on the information on their profile. For example, can you view reviews from previous clients? Do you prefer a petsitter with previous veterinary experience for a pet with special medical needs? What special skills or certifications does the pet sitter have? Are they even available on the dates you need them?
Are You Able to Meet the Petsitter In-Person Before Hiring Them?
It doesn’t matter how good someone looks on paper if you or your pet doesn’t click with them. Most of the apps we reviewed offer the option for Meet and Greets, although some require you to pay a deposit first. If you’re using Trusted HouseSitters, however, your prospective caregiver most likely won’t be local. In that case, you’ll need to decide if a virtual meet-up will suffice or come up with another way to feel comfortable choosing them.
Does The App Offer Insurance or Guarantees?
No matter how careful you and the pet sitter are, some pets have a knack for getting into trouble. Accidents happen, whether it involves your pet or something breaking around your house. Whether or not the pet sitter is at fault, you’ll likely feel better knowing there is a solution. Look for apps and pet sitters who are insured and bonded or offer guarantees to cover vet care or damages. Even with these assurances, it’s still a good idea to get a pet insurance policy for your animal. Better safe than sorry, as they say.
- See also: 10 Best Apps for Cats: Top Choices for Modern Cat Raising
Conclusion
As our best overall pet-sitting app, Wag offers peace of mind with its extensive background checks and rigorous hiring process combined with an easy-to-use app. Our best value app, Rover, offers one of the largest databases of caretakers, spread across the entire U.S. and even internationally. In all the hustle and bustle of planning your vacation, don’t forget to plan for your pets. Hopefully, our reviews of the top pet sitting apps will help you quickly mark that task off your pre-vacation checklist. Next stop: relaxation!
See also: Are Dog Walking Apps Safe? Should They Be Trusted?
Featured Image Credit: Megan Betteridge, Shutterstock
