Summer holidays should be a time for rest, adventure and a well-earned break. But for pet owners, they can also bring a wave of worry when going way.
You’ve probably heard the questions, or even asked them yourself:
“Who’ll care for the dog while we’re away?”
“Will the cat cope in a kennel?”
“How can we keep our pets safe in the heat?”
The answer for you and your pet may be to find A trusted pet sitter.
Why Summer Is a High-Risk Season
Each year, the RSPCA reports a significant increase in pet neglect and abandonment during the summer months. In 2024, the British Veterinary Association revealed that heatstroke cases in dogs spiked fivefold during extreme weather, with one in four cases proving fatal.
It’s a heartbreaking reality: as families travel, some pets are left behind or given up altogether due to lack of care options. Many however will consider leaving friends or a professional pet-sitter at the helm who can be flexible, give tailored attention and in-home care to reduce stress and keep pets in their familiar environment.
3 Key Tips for Booking a Pet Sitter This Summer
To make the most of a pet sitter’s support during your break, keep these essentials in mind:
1. Plan Ahead. Summer Gets Busy
Pet sitters are in high demand during the holidays. To avoid last-minute stress:
- Book early and confirm availability well in advance.
- Arrange a meet-and-greet to build trust between your pet and the sitter.
- If needed, you can use platforms such as Rover or Trusted Housesitters to find local sitters who offer last-minute care options – but preparation is always best.
2. Leave a Summer Guide
Help your sitter deliver the best care by providing:
- Cooling tips tailored to your pet that seem to help them
- Any heat-related health concerns (especially for flat-faced breeds or older pets).
- Clear feeding, walking, and medication instructions.
3. Stay Connected While You’re Away
A good sitter will keep you updated with:
- Daily photos and notes on your pet’s behaviour and routine (your pet doesn’t have its own phone, unfortunately).
- Alerts if anything seems out of the ordinary.
- Walk tracking and feeding updates
A Simple Choice with a Big Impact
Choosing your sitter isn’t just about convenience, it’s about compassion. It’s about making sure your pet is safe and happy while you enjoy your summer, and about supporting a wider network of care that includes shelters, and the communities they serve.
This summer, a little planning goes a long way.
Support the RSPCA by preventing the need for their intervention in the first place.
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