Leaving pets behind when you travel is the hardest part of planning a trip. You want them safe, happy, and cared for. It’s the classic dilemma: do you opt for the familiar comfort of a home pet sitter, or the structured environment of a kennel? For some owners, the choice is obvious. For others, it’s a tug-of-war between peace of mind and practicalities.

The truth is, there isn’t a single “right” answer. It depends on your pet’s personality, your comfort level as an owner, and how long you’ll be away. The question of home pet sitting vs kennels isn’t just about cost or convenience. It’s about what makes sense for your furry friend, and for you.

This blog breaks down the two options, compares their pros and cons, and offers some tips to make the right choice for your best friend.

Understanding House Sitting

House sitting is simple. A trusted sitter stays in your home while you’re away. They look after your pets, keep your house secure, and make sure everything runs as if you never left. Happy House Sitters make this easier by connecting pet owners with vetted sitters who offer free services in exchange for accommodation.

From a pet’s perspective, the benefits are pretty clear. They get to stay in their familiar environment. No strange smells, no new cages, no sudden change in routine. If your dog loves sleeping on the couch at night, they can keep doing that. If your cat likes being fed at 7:15 on the dot, that won’t suddenly shift to 9:30. The reduced stress can be a game changer, especially for pets that are older or more anxious. They also receive one-on-one, personalised attention, which is great for pets with medical needs that require close monitoring.

For owners, there’s comfort too. Your house doesn’t sit empty, which adds a layer of security. Plants get watered, bins go out, and lights switch on. You come back to a home that looks lived in, not one that’s been sitting vacant.

When does house sitting work best? Generally, if you’re going away for longer stretches or have pets that dislike change, it’s the gentler choice. A nervous rescue dog, for instance, may cope far better with a sitter than with a loud, busy kennel.

Understanding Kennels

Kennels, on the other hand, are a long-standing option. These are professional facilities designed to board multiple animals at once, with trained staff taking care of your pets. 

Kennels do have their advantages. The environment is designed for socialisation of animals, with secure runs and dedicated play areas. Some pets, especially social dogs, actually enjoy being around others and interacting with new companions. The trained staff maintains a strict, structured routine for feeding, exercise, and cleaning, which can provide a sense of stability. 

From the owner’s perspective, kennels are easy to book and often conveniently located. In some cases, they may also be cheaper than organising a sitter, though this varies.

When are kennels more suitable? If your pet is highly social, loves stimulation, or if you’re just going away for a short weekend, a kennel might make sense. Some owners also feel reassured knowing there are professionals around multiple animals, almost like a safety net.

Home Pet Sitting vs Kennels: Key Comparisons

When you compare the two options, it’s not about which is universally better, but rather which is better for you.

Comfort and environment

This is the biggest difference. Home is a known, safe haven. A kennel is a new, and often noisy, environment with unfamiliar smells. For a nervous pet, this distinction is everything.

Personalised care

Sitters give one-on-one attention. Your pet isn’t just one among twenty; they’re the only focus. In kennels, while the staff do care, their attention is divided among many animals. That said, the structured schedule can be beneficial for some pets.

Stress levels

Most pets experience less stress when staying home. But certain dogs thrive on the bustle of a kennel. So, it depends.

Health and safety

At home, a sitter keeps an eye on your pet’s specific needs. Kennels, on the other hand, have professional supervision and are used to handling emergencies. There’s security in both, though in different ways.

Cost

Kennel fees vary widely, especially if you opt for extras like larger runs or additional playtime. Additionally, they charge per pet, which can be expensive if you’ve multiple pets. House sitting can be done for multiple pets at the same time. When choosing someone through Happy House Sitters, it is done free in exchange for accommodation. 

Is House Sitting Better Than Kennels?

This is the question many owners circle back to: Is house sitting better than kennels? The answer? Sometimes yes, sometimes no.

House sitting wins if your pet hates disruption, thrives on routine, or needs that one-on-one care. It prioritises comfort and reduces anxiety, which is a strong point for anxious or older pets and those on medication. 

If your pet loves being social and you’re only going away for a few days, a reputable kennel can be a fine choice. 

The answer really depends on your pet’s temperament. A senior cat probably won’t love a kennel stay. While a bouncy Labrador might return home happily exhausted from playtime.

Tips for Choosing the Right Option

Still unsure? A few guiding questions can help.

  • Think about your pet’s personality. Are they sociable or more withdrawn? Confident or anxious?
  • Consider your travel length. A weekend away is different from a three-week overseas holiday.
  • Do your homework. If you’re considering a sitter, check their references and experience. For kennels, read reviews, visit the facility, and see how staff interact with the animals.
  • Health needs. Factor in medication schedules, mobility issues, or dietary restrictions. Some require individualised attention, while others can be managed well by kennel staff.

At the end of the day, you know your pet best. Trust that instinct.

Conclusion

The choice between home pet sitting vs kennels isn’t always clear-cut. It boils down to prioritising your pet’s emotional well-being and doing what suits them best. Some are comfortable in their own home with a sitter taking care of them, while others might actually enjoy the company of others in kennels.

Whatever you decide, think less about what’s “better” in theory and more about what’s right for your specific pet. That’s where your peace of mind lies.

If you’re leaning towards house sitting, Happy House Sitters makes it easy. We connect pet owners with reliable, vetted sitters across Australia. Browse our listings today and find someone you can trust to care for your pets and your home while you’re away.