How to choose the right pet sitter
Updated 12 November 2026
Leaving your pet with someone new is a big step. The good news: a few minutes of reading and one honest conversation tell you most of what you need to know. Here is what to look for.
1. Start with what your pet needs
Before you compare sitters, write down what matters for your pet. An energetic young dog needs long walks and space. An older cat may be happiest staying at home with someone dropping by. A dog that doesn’t get on with other dogs needs a sitter who only takes one pet at a time.
- Which service: overnight at the sitter’s, the sitter at your home, day care, walks or short visits?
- Medication, special food or a fixed routine?
- How your pet gets on with children, other dogs and cats
2. Read the profile closely
A good profile tells you who the sitter is, how they live and how they look after animals. Look at the photos of the home and the garden, and at the details: is there a private garden, someone at home all day, no cages, a vet nearby? On SnudeRo you can filter on these when you search.
Check that the sitter offers your service for your kind of pet. Prices are set per service and per pet, so the price on the profile tells you what your stay will cost.
3. Read the reviews, all of them
Reviews can only be written by owners who have booked and paid through SnudeRo. Read the newest ones first, and look for details that match your pet: other large dogs, other nervous cats, other long stays. A new sitter without reviews can still be a great choice. Then the conversation matters even more.
4. Ask questions before you book
Use the chat to ask anything before you decide. Good questions are:
- What does a normal day look like for a guest?
- Where does my pet sleep, and is it ever left alone? For how long?
- Are there other animals or children in the home during the stay?
- What do you do if my pet gets ill or hurt?
- Can you send photos or updates while I’m away?
5. Meet before the stay
If you can, meet the sitter with your pet before the first booking. Sitters who offer it for free show “Free meet & greet” on their profile. You see the home, and your pet gets to know the place and the person. If something feels wrong, it’s fine to say no thanks.
6. Book, and stay in touch
On SnudeRo you send a booking request, and you only pay (online, by card) once the sitter has accepted. Cancel at least 7 days before the start and you get everything back; up to 12 hours before, you get 50% back. During the stay you can keep in touch in the chat, and afterwards you can leave a review that helps the next owner.