Pet Sitting in the UAE
I need a pet sitter in the UAE
Whether you’re a cat parent or a dog parent in the UAE, the chances are at some point, you will need someone you trust to take care of your fur kids when you’re busy. Pet sitters offer flexibility from daily house visits, the occasional drop in, or stay in your home when you travel. I caught up with the award winning Happy Tails Petsitting Dubai to find out more about pet sitting and why people are choosing sitters over boarding their pets.
What’s the difference between a pet sitter and a boarding facility?
The main difference between a pet sitter and a boarding facility lies in where the pet stays and the level of care provided.
A pet sitter comes to your home to care for your pet while you’re travelling, at work, or are out of the house for long periods of time throughout the day. This service often includes feeding, walking ( if needed ), playtime and some basic grooming. The pet stays in the comfort of their own environment, which can reduce stress and anxiety for many animals.
Pet boarding involved taking your pet to a facility where they stay overnight ( or during the day )for an extended period of time. While boarding facilities can offer socialisation with other pets and are staffed by professionals, some pets may feel anxious, overwhelmed or uncomfortable being away from their home and family.
What does a typical day in the life of a pet sitter look like?
A typical day in the life of a pet sitter can be quite busy and varied. My day usually starts early, especially in the warner months. The pet sitter often begins by taking dogs for their morning walks. This can involve multiple stops at different homes with cats and dogs, allowing each pet to enjoy care and attention. For the doggies who have pawrents travelling, we visit them first thing in the morning and last visit at night. For our doggies with hard working pawrents in the office all day, we pop in during lunch time for some playtime and snacks, or have a nice walk ( only in winter time ). Our cats are often more flexible, so we plan those after our dog walks.
What do you enjoy the most about pet sitting?
For me, it’s the perfect combination of several things; I absolutely love being around pets, getting to walk them, taking care of them, and cuddling them all day. It’s incredibly satisfying. I cherish the daily contact with pet owners too! Keeping them updated about their furry friends creates beautiful bonds, and some clients have even become really good friends. I’m so grateful for these connections.
What can a pet parent expect to pay a pet sitter?
The price per visit starts at 95AED and varies depending on location and number of pets that need care. For an overnight stay, the price begins at 300AED.
How do pet parents know if pet sitting is right for their fur kids?
It all depends on your pet’s individual needs and personalities. Many pets are most comfortable staying in their own home environment, where they can stick to their regular routines. Even dogs that enjoy day care often prefer the familiarity and comfort of sleeping at home, rather than a small room at a facility. Observing how your pet reacts to changes in their environment and routine can help you decide if in-home pet sitting is the best option for them.
What’s the strangest pet you’ve cared for?
I don’t consider any pets strange, but when we receive an enquiry for a pet we’re not experienced in such as snakes, we’re always honest about it. In such cases, we refer pet parents to someone who specialises in reptiles. This ensures that the pet receives the best possible care from someone knowledgeable.
What safety protocols do you have in place when a pet is in your care?
We prioritise safety by implementing several protocols. Initially, we have a first meeting or ( video ) call to go over all the details about the pets and their home. New clients are required to read and fill out documentation that includes all medical history, and we also collect the veterinary contact information to ensure we are fully informed before visits start.
For pets with a medical history or older pets, we recommend installing a small camera, allowing clients to keep an eye on their pets, especially when we aren’t there. Additionally, I have completed a CPR course for dogs, though I have thankfully never needed to use it in my five years with Happy Tails.
What made you start your pet sitting business?
I really love animals and so it was both a personal and heartfelt decision to commence this journey! Transitioning from a corporate environment to a more fulfilling career in the pet industry is a significant change, especially after becoming a parent. My background in rescuing cats and dogs started in 2009 in Belgium and continued in Dubai in 2015. Volunteering in shelters all over Thailand has provided me with valuable experience and a deep understanding of animal behaviour and health, which definitely benefits both me and the pets I care for.
What advice would you give to a pet parent looking for a pet sitter?
Always hire a licensed company and don’t hesitate to ask for their license. Set up a call, video chat, or a personal meeting and ask plenty of questions – don’t be shy! Take your time and ensure you feel completely at ease and have all the answers you need. Only when you feel comfortable with the pet sitter and their approach should you hire them. Ask friends and colleagues for recommendations and read online reviews to find your best partner.
What do you like about Where My Paws At?
What don’t I like about Where My Paws At! It was founded by a lady out of love for pets, it’s effective and efficient, and it has already reunited so many pets and pawrents in such a short time. I’m grateful it started; it’s exactly what we needed here in the UAE.
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Keeping Your Pets Safer in the UAE
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