Types of service
- Solo or group dog walks
- Drop-in visits for cats and small pets: feeding, litter and company
- House sitting: the sitter stays in your home with your pets
- Home boarding: your dog stays in the sitter’s home
- Dog day care: at a centre or a carer’s home
What to check
- Insurance covering public liability and care, custody and control of your pet, and key cover if they hold your keys.
- Background checks: a DBS check in the UK, or a background check in the US.
- Licences: in England, home boarders and dog day care need a council licence. Dog walkers don’t, but some councils limit how many dogs one person can walk in public spaces.
- Pet first aid training and an emergency plan, including your vet’s details.
- Professional membership: in the US, groups such as NAPPS and Pet Sitters International offer membership and training.
Questions to ask at a meet-and-greet
- How many dogs do you walk at once, and do you walk them on or off lead?
- How do you transport dogs, and are they secured in the vehicle?
- Will the same person visit each time?
- How do you send updates, and what happens if you’re ill?
- Can I see your insurance certificate and any licence?
Last updated: 13 October 2026
