If you have a pet, planning a holiday often starts with one important question:
Who will look after my pet while I’m away?
For many people, arranging pet care can be one of the biggest barriers to travelling. Kennels and catteries aren’t the right fit for every animal, and asking friends or family isn’t always possible.
That’s one reason why so many pet owners love HomeExchange.
A Community That Understands Pets
More than 65,000 HomeExchange members have selected “Pets to care for” on their profile, showing just how many pet owners are part of the community.
Because so many members have pets of their own, they understand how important it is to keep animals happy, comfortable and settled while their owners are away. This shared understanding often makes it easier to find exchange partners who are happy to follow a pet’s routine and give them the care and attention they deserve.
Why Staying at Home Can Be Better for Pets
Many pets feel happiest in familiar surroundings.
Instead of adjusting to a new environment, they can stay in the comfort of their own home, sleep in their usual spot and stick to their normal routine.
For many owners, knowing their pet is relaxed at home makes it much easier to relax and enjoy their own holiday.
More Than Just Feeding the Cat
Pet care during a HomeExchange is about more than providing food and water.
Exchange guests often enjoy spending time with the animals they meet. Whether it’s taking a dog for a daily walk, playing with a cat in the evening or caring for chickens in the garden, many members see it as one of the highlights of experiencing everyday life in a new place.
Some even say that the pets they meet become one of their favourite memories from the exchange!
Finding the Right Exchange
If you’re hoping your guests will care for your pet, it’s important to mention this in your listing and discuss it before confirming the exchange.
Be sure to explain:
- Feeding routines
- Walking schedules
- Medication, if needed
- Favourite toys or sleeping spots
- Your vet’s contact details
- Any little quirks that make your pet unique
Good communication helps everyone feel confident before the exchange begins.
A Win-Win for Hosts, Guests and Pets
HomeExchange offers something that many other types of accommodation can’t.
Hosts can travel knowing their pets are staying in the place they know best, while guests get to enjoy the company of an animal and experience daily life like a local.
It’s one of the many reasons pet owners say HomeExchange has transformed the way they travel.
Tell Us About Your Pet Exchange!
Has a HomeExchange guest looked after your pet while you were away? Or have you enjoyed spending time with a host’s cat, dog or other animal during an exchange?
Share your favourite story below—we’d love to hear how pets have made your HomeExchange experience even more memorable.