How Much To Pay A Friend For Dog Sitting?

how much to pay a friend for dog sitting
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Pet sitting can be expensive, and if your friend has agreed to watch your pup for you – that’s great! BUT, you should make sure that you’re not taking advantage of their time. If it’s more than a one-off deal, you should pay them something for the time they’ve spent doing it.

So, how much should you pay a friend for dog sitting? $20 per day is what most people agree is fair. However, if you’re not sure, it may be best to talk to them about it and see what they think.

Overnight dog sitter rates will generally run you $45-$95 per night if you hire a professional pet sitter, and potentially even a bit more if you were to go with kennel or pet boarding facility.

Just remember that your friend is doing you a big favor, and making it so your pet does not have to go to a boarding facility where they may be stressed out by other dogs and unfamiliar people.

So, even if they don’t want to accept any money from you, you can offer something else. Perhaps offer to take them to a nice dinner, or give them a gift card to a place you know they like.

What To Do Before You Leave Your Pup With A Friend or Family Member!

Before you leave to go on your trip, make sure everything is in order. Here’s a checklist of what you should make sure you have taken care of before you leave.

  • Make sure vaccinations are up to date

Before you drop off your pup, make sure their vaccinations are up to date. You should also leave paperwork with them in the event that it’s needed. Don’t forget their flea medications too!

  • Leave the phone number for your vet

Give them your vet’s phone number in case something happens. Let your vet know your dog will be staying with a friend, and if an emergency does occur, you can pay over the phone with a credit card.

  • Leave your mobile AND number of where you’re staying

Your friend probably has your mobile number already, but leave the hotel number too! Especially if you are out of the country where you might end up having issues being reached.

  • Leave them a spare house key

Leave a spare house key for your friend. Even if the dog stays at their house, they may need it if you’ve forgotten to bring something, or if you need them to check on the house while you’re gone.

  • Make sure you send enough dog food

It would be more ideal if your friend did not have to go out and get more food, as that’s just another chore for them. So, try to leave enough food that they won’t have to. However, if that’s not feasible, leave enough money that they can buy more dog food without dipping into their own pockets while you’re gone.

  • Leave written instructions if your dog needs special care

If your dog requires special care for something, such as taking medication, write down the instructions! Make sure there is a reminder so if your friend forgets they can reference it and make sure they’ve got it right.

  • Inform your friend about any potential behavioral issues!

If your dog aggressive towards other dogs? Do they have a habit of trying to sneak out the door? Are they an escape artist that pulls out of their leash? Your friend needs to know all of this to keep your dog safe and to avoid a stressful disaster.

  • Pack the essentials

Make sure to pack food and water bowls, leash, kennel, dog bed, favorite toys, etc. Whatever your dog needs on the day-to-day should be in their bag and ready for your friend.

  • Send a comfort item

If you’re worried about your dog getting depressed while you’re gone, sending something that smells like you can help. Sending a long a shirt or blanket with your scent on it can be comforting to them until you return.

Michelle Rei
Michelle Rei
Michelle is a pet parent turned amateur pet product researcher. After adopting a fur baby with digestive issues caused by bad pet food, she's poured hundreds of hours into research to find the best of the best to help him and other pets live happier and healthier lives.
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