They can also check your mail, water your house plants, check for frozen pipes in winter, turn lights on and off, as well as feed and water your pet. Some sitters will walk your dog or play with your cat, feed the goldfish, and more. However, if they only stay for one hour, your pet is alone for the other 23 hours. There is also a security consideration. Sometimes, when a stranger walks into a home, the pet will sneak out.
Escapes are rare, but heartbreaking, when they happen.
Be sure to hire someone you can trust and who has good references, as all of your valuables will be vulnerable to theft. It is a good idea to have the pet sitter visit your pet while you are home, well in advance of your trip, to see how they react to each other. This is a good option for your pet if you don't feel comfortable with a house sitter, or if one is not available. Do not board at a facility where dogs and cats occupy the same room, or where they are within earshot of each other. Cats become stressed easily, and the result is poor eating and grooming habits, and possibly illness.