When it comes to caring for your beloved pet, who you trust makes all the difference. Professional pet sitting is a growing and respected industry in Canada. According to Pet Sitters International’s 2023 survey, the average annual revenue for Canadian professional pet sitters reached CAD $91,909 in 2022, surpassing both pre-pandemic levels and the national average income.Â
While it might seem convenient to leave your pet with a family member, friend, or hobby sitter, there are substantial advantages to hiring a professional pet sitter in Canada. From specialized training to accountability and peace of mind, professionals offer a level of care and reliability that informal arrangements often lack.Â
This article explores the key reasons why Canadian pet parents should consider hiring a qualified professional over a hobby sitter or someone they know casually.
Understanding the Difference
Before diving into the benefits of professional pet care, it’s important to define the difference between the three options:
- Professional Pet Sitters: Individuals or companies that offer insured, bonded, and trained services. They treat pet care as a business and often hold certifications, contracts, and adhere to structured policies.
- Hobby Sitters: Individuals who occasionally care for pets as a side gig, without formal training, insurance, or long-term commitment.
- Family/Friends: People in your circle who may offer to care for your pets as a favor, usually without compensation or preparation.
1. Training and Experience
Professional Pet Sitters
Professional pet sitters are often trained in pet behavior, first aid, and emergency protocols. Many are certified through organizations such as Pet Sitters International (PSI) or Pet First Aid by Walks ‘N’ Wags. Their experience allows them to recognize subtle signs of illness, handle emergencies calmly, and provide care tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
Hobby Sitters or Family/Friends
While well-intentioned, hobby sitters or relatives typically lack formal training. They may not know how to respond to a medical emergency or how to manage pets with anxiety, reactivity, or health conditions. Their experience is usually limited to their pets, which may not prepare them for unexpected scenarios.
Why it matters: When your pet’s health and safety are at stake, training and experience can be the difference between a smooth visit and a stressful (or even dangerous) situation.
2. Reliability and Accountability
Professional Pet Sitters
Professionals treat pet care as a career, not a casual task. They are bound by contracts, have backup plans in place, and often use scheduling software or apps that confirm check-ins and updates. You can expect regular communication, transparency, and a clear agreement on services and fees. Many professionals are members of professional organizations, like Canadian Pet Care Professionals, and are required to agree to and uphold a code of ethics.Â
Hobby Sitters or Family/Friends
Informal caregivers may cancel at the last minute, forget tasks, or struggle to maintain a consistent schedule. Without a contract, there is no accountability in the event of something going wrong, and disputes can create tension in personal relationships.
Why it matters: Your peace of mind depends on knowing your sitter will show up, follow instructions, and keep you informed. Professionalism ensures that.
3. Insurance and Liability
Professional Pet Sitters
Most professional pet sitters in Canada carry liability insurance and are bonded. This protects both you and the sitter in case of accidents, injuries, property damage, or lost pets. Some also offer service guarantees and provide veterinary release forms for emergency situations.
Hobby Sitters or Family/Friends
It is unlikely that a hobby sitter or relative has insurance. If your pet gets hurt, escapes, or causes damage while in their care, you may be financially and emotionally responsible.
Why it matters: Insurance provides a safety net. If an accident happens, you’ll be covered – and that’s a huge relief.
4. Tailored Care and Consistency
Professional Pet Sitters
A professional will take the time to get to know your pet’s personality, routine, medical needs, and preferences. They often offer meet-and-greets, provide pet journals or updates, and maintain consistent routines, which is especially important for pets who thrive on structure.
Hobby Sitters or Family/Friends
While friends and relatives love your pet, they may not follow routines as closely or understand how disruptions can affect your animal. Hobby sitters may have limited availability and change plans without considering your pet’s needs.
Why it matters: Pets feel secure when their daily schedule and environment remain predictable. Professionals maintain that consistency.
5. Emergency Preparedness
Professional Pet Sitters
Professionals know what to do if your pet becomes ill or injured. They have emergency contacts, vet releases, and transportation plans ready. Some even carry first-aid kits and know how to administer medications or injections.
Hobby Sitters or Family/Friends
In emergencies, informal sitters may panic or hesitate. Without preparation or experience, they might delay necessary action or be unsure of what steps to take.
Why it matters: Fast, informed responses in emergencies can save lives. Training and planning are non-negotiable.
6. Legal Protections and Contracts
Professional Pet Sitters
You’ll sign a service agreement that outlines expectations, responsibilities, cancellation policies, and emergency procedures. These contracts protect both parties and ensure clear communication from the start.
Hobby Sitters or Family/Friends
Without contracts, misunderstandings can occur. If something goes wrong – a missed medication, a damaged item, a late visit – you may have little recourse and strained relationships.
Why it matters: Clear agreements prevent conflict and offer mutual protection.
7. Supporting a Local Business
Hiring a professional pet sitter also means supporting a small, often female-led business in your community. These professionals invest in education, tools, insurance, and local networks to enhance their capabilities and expertise. When you choose them over hobby sitters or favours, you’re contributing to the local economy and helping a committed entrepreneur succeed.
Why it matters: Supporting qualified, dedicated professionals helps elevate standards across the pet care industry.
When the Unexpected Happens
Pets are unpredictable. Even the most well-behaved animal can develop sudden illness, separation anxiety, or behavioural changes when their humans leave. A professional pet sitter is prepared for those moments and can step in with calm, confident care.
Case Example: A professional pet sitter notices a dog limping during a visit. Recognizing the early signs of a paw injury, they clean the wound, alert the pet parent, and take the dog to the vet if needed – all while keeping detailed records. A hobby sitter might miss the signs or delay action.
Why Choosing a Professional Pet Sitter Is the Smartest Move
Entrusting your pet to someone while you’re away is a big decision. While family, friends, or hobby sitters may seem convenient, they can’t match the reliability, training, and accountability of a professional pet sitter. In Canada, pet care professionals who are “Verified Pro” are held to high standards, and that translates into better care for your animal and greater peace of mind for you. Find a Verified Pro near you in the CPCP Verified PRO Directory.
When your pet’s well-being is at stake, don’t settle for “good enough.” Choose a trained, insured, and passionate professional who sees pet sitting as more than just a job. Your pet deserves it. And so do you!
Author: Erika Godwin
Erika Godwin is the President of Barketing Solutions and the Co-Founder and CMO of ProPet Software, and Co-Founder of Canadian Pet Care Professionals (CPCP).