When pet parents leave their furry loved ones home while away, whether for work, vacation, or some other reason, someone will have to tend to their needs. Obviously, dogs need to eat, go out for potty breaks, and need exercise. Sometimes, they need additional care as well.

Thankfully, there are several options for providing pet care when pet parents can't be there. The individual needs of you and your dog, and the length of your absence, will ultimately help you determine if a dog walker or pet sitter is right for you.

It is easy to choose between a pet sitter and a dog walker once you understand what each service will include. A dog walker, for example, provides your furry friend the chance to get outside and do their business, as well as get the much-needed exercise that they deserve.

This article will break down the key differences between a dog walker and a pet sitter in Greenville, SC, and help you determine which one is right for you and your furry friend.

What's a dog walker?

While you are away, especially for shorter periods, and your doggie is pretty independent, they will likely only need regular potty breaks and daily exercise. In this case, you probably should consider hiring a professional dog walker. Dog walkers will visit your home and walk your dog while you're away. Typically, a walk will last a half-hour. If necessary, most dog walkers allow you to schedule multiple daily visits based on the dog's needs.

Here are some of the most common advantages of hiring a professional dog walker:

• Hiring a dog walker is typically more affordable than hiring a pet sitter
• Your dog will get the regular exercise and potty breaks that they need
• Professional dog walkers are licensed and insured, giving you peace of mind that your dog is in being well cared for
• Dog walkers typically work on a set schedule that matches the particular needs of your pup  

At Happy Paws, we offer daily traditional pet services, which include a 30-minute dog walk and drop-in. With this service, the dog walker will spend 30 minutes with your dog, check their food and water, play, and take walks. It is an excellent option for anyone who works long hours or goes away on a day or weekend trip.

What's a Pet Sitter?

Pet sitters come to your house and care for your pet while you are away from home. Pet sitters typically offer long-term services meaning they stay for more extended periods than a dog walker would. Sometimes, the pet sitter will stay overnight with your dog. Having a pet sitter come to your home is usually better than boarding your dog. When your dog stays in familiar surroundings, they are much less likely to be stressed out by the ordeal. After all, being without their human companion for an extended period is stressful enough.

Your pet sitter will feed your dog, pet them, play with them, and help them to avoid separation anxiety while you are away. When a pet sitter comes into your home, your four-legged gets their full attention, and the sitter addresses their every need.

A pet sitter is the go-to choice if your dog suffers from separation anxiety, has any mental or physical conditions, or simply needs a little extra human attention. Pet sitters are also the best option when leaving puppies home alone. Puppies typically need additional care, attention, and more frequent potty breaks.

Like dog walkers, pet sitters should be hired based on experience and background. You should only choose licensed and insured pet sitters. This is crucial because unforeseen circumstances can arise when you leave your dog for extended periods. You need a pet sitter who has the experience necessary to handle unexpected situations.

Here are some of the most common advantages of hiring a professional pet sitter: 

• Pet sitters offer a more personalized level of care
• Pet sitters give your dog their full attention for extended periods so that they won't get lonely
• Pet sitters afford you the ability to check in more often and make sure that your dog is okay
• Pet sitters will sometimes perform other tasks such as watering plants and fetching the mail  

Long-term services from Happy Paws can include overnight stays. Overnights not only include our pet sitter staying with the dog throughout the night but staying on top of regular daily routines that your dog needs to stay on schedule while you are away. We will also water plants and make sure that your house does not look unoccupied while you are away.

Greenville, SC Dog Walker vs.Pet Sitter: Which One is Better For You?

Hiring a dog walker might be less expensive than hiring a pet sitter, but if you're leaving home for an extended period, you should consider hiring a pet sitter. Ultimately, the decision of whether to hire a dog walker or a pet sitter will depend on your pet's needs. Each option has its advantages.

Whichever one you choose, however, make sure that the person you are entrusting with the care of your pet is trained and educated in responding to any emergency that presents itself while you are away.