1. What is House Sitting?
Many people wonder how they can afford to travel the world. The answer is straightforward: with house sitting. But what exactly is house sitting?
House sitting involves one or more individuals (the house sitters) residing in and taking care of a home while the owner (the homeowner) is away, often on holiday. Consider it a form of babysitting, but for homes instead of children.
Every house sit is distinct. Some homeowners provide their car and even offer food. Homeowners experience peace of mind while away, avoiding kennel fees for their pets, and house sitters enjoy rent-free living in, more often than not, luxurious accommodations. It’s an advantageous scenario for everyone involved.
Why Would Someone Want a House Sitter?
While babysitting makes sense, why would a house need oversight? It’s not as if a house can get itself into trouble. Nevertheless, when homeowners are away for an extended period, several things can go awry:
- The fuses blow, leading to a defrosted freezer and unwanted damage.
- Plants require watering, and lawns need mowing.
- Homes may develop mould or mildew.
- Letterboxes can overflow with mail.
However, one of the most significant risks is the threat of burglars. Homeowners need their homes to appear lived-in. While not every empty house will be targeted, house sitters serve another critical purpose: they are also pet sitters.
2. Who Are Pet Sitters?
Continuing our theme, pet sitting worldwide refers to individuals (pet sitters) residing with and caring for a pet while its owner (the pet owner) is away. Essentially, it combines house sitting with pet care.
Why Would Anyone Want a Pet Sitter?
Generally, friends or relatives would be ideal to help—best friends or family members can feed pets while owners are away. However, numerous reasons might prevent homeowners from relying on them:
- They don’t want to impose on friends or family.
- Friends or family may be traveling too.
- Responsibility levels may vary among friends and relatives.
- Geographical distance can be a factor, especially for expats.
- Friends or relatives may feel overwhelmed by certain pets, especially exotic or high-energy animals.
In many cases, pet owners find that kennels are not a suitable option. Here are some reasons why they may avoid these facilities:
- Kennels can be costly, while house sitters offer their services for free.
- Kennels may not be ideal for pets, compromising their wellbeing.
- Some pets may not be accepted at kennels, particularly if they require specialized care.
Ultimately, the primary reason pet owners choose house sitters is that pets feel more comfortable in their own homes. This comfort allows for routine maintenance without disruption and ensures pets remain in familiar surroundings.
3. Why Do House Sitters Choose This Lifestyle?
Why would anyone choose to be a house sitter? There are numerous motives behind this decision.
One of the most attractive reasons is the ability to live rent and bill-free. Individuals can maintain their jobs without worrying about accommodation costs.
Moreover, house sitting allows individuals to experience various locations globally, free of rental obligations and utility expenses.
What Exactly Does a House Sitter Do?
House sitters typically have three main responsibilities:
- Care for the Animals: This includes feeding, providing water, and taking dogs for walks, if necessary.
- Care for the House: This involves locking the house at night, cleaning dishes after use, and managing temperature controls.
- Care for the Garden: Responsibilities may include watering plants and harvesting fruits when appropriate.
Each house-sitting assignment can vary in specifics. Some pets may require minimal care, while others need more attention. Regardless, the workload is typically less than alternative options such as work-exchange programs.
What Kind of Pets Do Pet Sitters Look After?
Pet sitters can look after a variety of animals based on their comfort levels. Many start with cats and dogs, then may take on more responsibilities with other species like fish, chickens, sheep, or even horses.
House Sitting Worldwide
House sitting can take place anywhere globally. For many travelers, the allure lies in the ability to house sit while exploring various countries. However, it can also be a way for individuals to discover their own regions while maintaining regular employment.
Conclusion
House sitting presents a unique opportunity for both homeowners and house sitters, allowing for profitable arrangements that benefit all parties involved. It’s an ideal method for those looking to travel affordably while ensuring pets remain happy and secure at home.
If you have questions or wish to learn more about house sitting, feel free to reach out through social media or leave a comment below!