Homesitters

read moreHomesitters is Britain's leading home and pet-sitting company, providing complete peace of mind for property owners and their insurers. Founded in September 1980, we have many years' of experience in looking after our clients' pets and most treasured possessions. The concept is simple: we provide a live-in service while you're away, so your home is secure and well-maintained and your pets enjoy companionship in familiar surroundings. We have an extensive network of homesitters across England, Wales and Scotland, all meticulously vetted and fully insured, and we provide 24/7 back-up throughout their stay.

read moreIf you are a pet owner, you are probably reluctant to use kennels, catteries or other boarding establishments. Vets advise that pets are creatures of habit, happiest and healthiest when life is comfortable and straightforward with no surprises. Cats and dogs in particular may worry when suitcases appear, associating them with separation and, worse, a trip to the cattery or kennels. A dog's natural instinct when a member of their pack goes away is to guard the territory until they return. Being separated from both the territory and the pack can result in significant separation anxiety, presenting in symptoms such as pining, loss of appetite, gnawing, kennel cough, diarrhoea and self-harming.

read moreAnyone can apply to work for Homesitters, but our employees do tend to share a number of characteristics.

read moreFor most cats, their owner going out is not a problem; they're used to it, and they know that the boss will be back soon. But bring out your suitcase, and your cat thinks "Oh dear - this doesn't look good." Cats and dogs, particularly, worry when suitcases appear because they associate them with a longer separation and - worse - being taken to catteries or kennels. Although most domestic cats appear to be very independent, they are territorial animals. They become very attached to their home environment and are naturally frightened of unfamiliar places and smells.