Choosing Pet Care: Kennel vs. Professional In-Home Sitter vs. Hobby Sitter

Amanda
Dec 15, 2024
3 min read

Are you planning a trip or tackling a busy schedule this holiday season? Your pet’s care is a top priority, and with so many options available, it’s important to understand what’s best for your furry friend. Let’s break down the differences between a kennel, a professional in-home sitter, and a hobby sitter - and why On Point Pet Sitting might be the perfect fit for you.

Kennels

What They Offer: Kennels, also known as boarding facilities, provide a structured environment where pets stay while their owners are away.

Pros:

Social opportunities for pets who enjoy interacting with others.
Facilities are typically secure and designed for pet safety.

Cons:

Often aren't staffed 24/7.
Stressful environments for pets who prefer quiet or personal space.
Strict schedules for feeding, playtime, and bathroom breaks.
Increased risk of illness, such as kennel cough, even in well-maintained facilities.
Less personalized care and limited one-on-one interaction.

Professional In-Home Sitters

What They Offer: Professional sitters like me at On Point Pet Sitting offer personalized, attentive care tailored to your pet’s unique needs. I provide services directly in your home or through my overnight care, drop-ins, or walks.

Pros:

Your pets stays in their familiar environment, reducing stress and anxiety.
A variety of services is often offered, from GPS-tracked walks with enrichment activities to administering medications and feeding schedules.
Safety and expertise are always at the forefront. Especially with certifications in pet first aid, fear-free practices, and 15+ years of experience (including nearly 3 in veterinary care).
Regular communication is able to be provided to help you feel connected and at ease with leaving your pets.
As a dedicated professional, I care for every pet as if they were my own, adding a human touch to my services.

Cons:

Professional care can cost more than hobby sitters or kennels, but the value is unmatched.
Trust is essential when allowing someone into your home, which is why I’m insured, registered, and background checked for your peace of mind.

Hobby Sitters

What They Offer: Hobby sitters are individuals who watch pets occasionally as a side gig.

Pros:

Generally more affordable.
May have flexibility in their schedule.

Cons:

Lack of formal training or insurance can lead to safety risks.
Limited experience with behavior issues or medical needs.
Inconsistent availability.
May not provide reports, photos, or updates about your pet’s care.

On Point Pet Sitting: The Professional Difference

When you choose On Point Pet Sitting, your pet gets the gold standard of care. With a fear-free approach and my commitment to the Alberta Force Free Alliance, your pet’s emotional well-being is always a priority.

Choosing the Right Care for Your Pet

Consider Your Pet’s Personality: A high-energy pup may benefit from structured kennel socialization, while a shy cat might thrive in its own home with a professional sitter.
Safety First: Trained professionals ensure that accidents, illnesses, or emergencies are handled quickly and effectively.
Communication: At On Point Pet Sitting, I provide regular updates, so you’re never left wondering how your pet is doing.

Why On Point Pet Sitting?

I understand how important your pets are because I’m a pet mom myself, with a house full of fur babies—my dog Jäger, my two cats, plus our newest addition, Tikka. I’ve built my business to give pets the care they deserve, whether it’s a long walk, a cozy cuddle, or medical care for senior animals.

Kennels

What They Offer: Kennels, also known as boarding facilities, provide a structured environment where pets stay while their owners are away.

Pros:

Social opportunities for pets who enjoy interacting with others.

Facilities are typically secure and designed for pet safety.

Cons:

Often aren't staffed 24/7.

Stressful environments for pets who prefer quiet or personal space.

Strict schedules for feeding, playtime, and bathroom breaks.

Increased risk of illness, such as kennel cough, even in well-maintained facilities.

Less personalized care and limited one-on-one interaction.

Professional In-Home Sitters

What They Offer: Professional sitters like me at On Point Pet Sitting offer personalized, attentive care tailored to your pet’s unique needs. I provide services directly in your home or through my overnight care, drop-ins, or walks.

Pros:

Your pets stays in their familiar environment, reducing stress and anxiety.

A variety of services is often offered, from GPS-tracked walks with enrichment activities to administering medications and feeding schedules.

Safety and expertise are always at the forefront. Especially with certifications in pet first aid, fear-free practices, and 15+ years of experience (including nearly 3 in veterinary care).

Regular communication is able to be provided to help you feel connected and at ease with leaving your pets.

As a dedicated professional, I care for every pet as if they were my own, adding a human touch to my services.

Cons:

Professional care can cost more than hobby sitters or kennels, but the value is unmatched.

Trust is essential when allowing someone into your home, which is why I’m insured, registered, and background checked for your peace of mind.

Hobby Sitters

What They Offer: Hobby sitters are individuals who watch pets occasionally as a side gig.

Pros:

Generally more affordable.

May have flexibility in their schedule.

Cons:

Lack of formal training or insurance can lead to safety risks.

Limited experience with behavior issues or medical needs.

Inconsistent availability.

May not provide reports, photos, or updates about your pet’s care.

On Point Pet Sitting: The Professional Difference

When you choose On Point Pet Sitting, your pet gets the gold standard of care. With a fear-free approach and my commitment to the Alberta Force Free Alliance, your pet’s emotional well-being is always a priority.

Choosing the Right Care for Your Pet

Consider Your Pet’s Personality: A high-energy pup may benefit from structured kennel socialization, while a shy cat might thrive in its own home with a professional sitter.

Safety First: Trained professionals ensure that accidents, illnesses, or emergencies are handled quickly and effectively.

Communication: At On Point Pet Sitting, I provide regular updates, so you’re never left wondering how your pet is doing.

Why On Point Pet Sitting?

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