Best Pet Sitting Apps: Find the Right One for Your Furry Friend

If you need someone to watch your pet while you’re at work or away for the weekend, a good pet sitting app can save you time and stress. You just open the app, set the dates, and match with a vetted sitter nearby. The best apps let you read reviews, see photos of the sitter’s home, and even chat before you book. That way you know you’re leaving your dog or cat with someone who’ll treat them like family.

What to Look for in a Pet Sitting App

First, check the vetting process. Apps that require background checks, pet‑first training, and proof of insurance give you more confidence. Second, look at the pricing model. Some apps charge a flat fee per visit, while others take a percentage of the sitter’s rate. Make sure the total cost matches your budget before you confirm anything.

Third, consider the communication tools. A built‑in chat, photo updates, and GPS tracking let you see what’s happening in real time. If the app sends you daily videos or messages, you’ll feel less anxious about leaving your pet.

Finally, think about the extra features. Some apps offer emergency vet support, dog‑walking add‑ons, or the ability to book multiple pets at once. Those perks can be handy if you have a busy household.

Top 3 Apps Reviewed

1. Rover – Rover is the most well‑known pet sitting platform. It has a huge network of sitters, so you can find help in almost any town. The app shows sitter ratings, hourly rates, and whether they provide overnight stays. Rover also offers a “Rover Guarantee” that covers accidental injuries, which adds peace of mind.

2. Wag! – Wag! focuses on dog walking but also provides in‑home sitting. The app’s real‑time GPS tracking is a standout feature; you can watch the walk live on your phone. Wag! screens sitters with background checks and offers a “Wag! Assurance” for pet safety.

3. PetBacker – PetBacker is a newer player, but it’s gaining traction because of its low fees and simple booking flow. Sitters create detailed profiles with photos of their homes, and you can filter by pet type, experience, and price. The app also lets you set up recurring bookings, which is great for regular dog‑walking schedules.

All three apps let you pay securely through the platform, store receipts, and leave reviews after each sit. Choose the one that matches your location, budget, and the level of detail you want in updates.

When you’re ready to book, start by entering your pet’s breed, age, and any special needs. That helps the app match you with sitters who have the right experience. Then, read at least three recent reviews and look at the sitter’s photos. A quick chat before the first visit can clear up any questions about feeding routines, medication, or playtime preferences.

Remember, the best app for you isn’t always the one with the most users. It’s the one that gives you confidence, clear communication, and a sitter who respects your pet’s routine. Try a short trial run—maybe a half‑day sitting—to see how comfortable you feel. If everything goes smoothly, you’ve found a reliable partner for future trips.

In short, pick an app that checks sitters thoroughly, offers transparent pricing, and keeps you in the loop with photos and messages. With the right tool, leaving your pet in someone else’s care becomes a breeze rather than a worry.