Disclaimer
Since it seems not everyone reads the full thread: We only send this guide after a personal video call with the homeowners. During that call, we explain the context and have a personal interaction, so people get to know us and understand how to interpret the tone and content. The guide is simply an additional piece of information – not something we drop cold. It’s really just meant to avoid misunderstandings and support a smooth experience for everyone involved. No need to dramatize it.
We’ve recently decided to start sending out a short guide to homeowners before each sit – basically a “Welcome Guide in reverse.” Not because we want to create extra work, but because it helps clarify mutual expectations early on and avoids awkward surprises.
TrustedHousesitters is often perceived as a platform where sitters provide a free service, but that doesn’t quite reflect the reality – it’s a mutual arrangement. As sitters, we also have needs and boundaries, and it should be completely normal to communicate them clearly.
I’m sharing our personal guide here – not as a fixed template, but as an example of what this could look like. It’s tailored to us, and of course others will want to add or remove certain points.
Maybe THS could consider building a simple feature in the platform where sitters can share a version of this officially – just like homeowners have their Welcome Guide. That would make it easier for both sides to understand: this isn’t a one-way service, it’s a shared agreement.
Guide follows below.
What We Need as Sitters to Do Our Best
TrustedHousesitters is based on trust and mutual understanding. When we move into someone else’s home to care for their pets and property – often for several weeks and without payment – we take on a great deal of responsibility.
To carry out this role responsibly and with joy, it’s essential that our own needs are heard and respected. This guide is designed to avoid misunderstandings and help both sides build a clear, fair and positive partnership right from the start.
We both work remotely, travel full-time, and bring a deep love for animals with us. Since we’re often on the move, we’ve chosen not to have pets of our own – but we pour all our love, energy and reliability into the pets we look after. For us, pet sitting is a wonderful way to combine our passions for animals, travel, and meaningful human connection.
We value the relationship with the homeowner just as much as with the pets. A good connection and mutual trust are essential to us – and we’re always happy to keep in touch during the sit to provide peace of mind. If this resonates with you, we’re likely a great match.
1. A Comfortable, Functional and Clean Home
We aim to care for your home and pets as if they were our own – and in return, we kindly ask for a space where we can feel comfortable, safe and at ease.
- The house should be clean, tidy and free of cobwebs. A hygienic space is essential, especially for longer stays.
- We are non-smokers and do not accept smoker households – not even “just on the balcony” or “only when guests come.”
- The fridge should be either empty or cleaned and organized before our arrival. Please do not leave spoiled or moldy food behind.
- If the sit is longer, we appreciate having a clean drawer or designated space for our belongings.
- All listed amenities should be functional. If something isn’t working, let us know before we arrive.
- We’re mindful of energy and resource use, but we do expect to be able to heat or cool the house to a comfortable level.
2. Space for Work and Rest
We both work remotely and often have video meetings at the same time. To avoid clashing calls and talking over each other, we ask for:
- Two quiet, separate workspaces with a table and chair.
- Reliable Wi-Fi with enough bandwidth – please test it before we arrive.
- A comfortable bed (ideally two if available – we sleep better separately, though it’s not a dealbreaker).
3. Clear Expectations Around Pet Care
We genuinely love animals and enjoy everything from long walks to cuddle time. That said, transparency is essential:
- We prefer active breeds with good recall and dogs that don’t pull on the leash – we enjoy off-leash walks when safe and permitted.
- We usually travel with our own car and have a dog mat in the back. Dogs who enjoy car rides are especially welcome – we love exploring new routes!
- Please inform us of feeding routines, medical needs, reactivity, separation anxiety, and whether the pet sleeps in our room.
- We do not sit pets with known aggression or biting history. If you’re unsure, talk to us about it in advance.
4. No Financial Outlay for Sitters
We provide our time and care for free – but we do not cover costs related to pet care or the household. Please:
- Ensure there’s enough pet food, litter and supplies for the entire stay.
- Do not expect us to front money for emergencies or regular items.
- If you’d like us to handle reimbursements, let us know in advance and leave either cash or set up an easy digital option.
5. Privacy and Boundaries
We value peace, privacy and mutual trust. During our stay:
- Please do not schedule maintenance workers, gardeners or cleaners unless previously discussed.
- Indoor cameras are strictly prohibited by THS. That includes Ring, Alexa, or similar smart devices with cameras or audio recording. If any are present, they must be fully disabled. If this is not the case, we will raise a member dispute and abandon the sit.
- Outdoor cameras should be disclosed before the sit.
- We love furry animals – but if it has eight legs and fur, I’m out!
6. Communication and Connection
We’re happy to stay in touch during the sit – just let us know your preference:
- Daily updates with photos?
- Quick check-ins every few days?
- Only in case of emergency?
We always offer a video call before confirming a sit, and we’ll make sure we can reach you by phone if something urgent arises.
We’re also flexible: If it helps, we’re happy to arrive the night before the sit or meet in advance to get to know you and your pets.
7. Contingency & Fairness
We’re committed and reliable, and we expect the same in return. That said:
- If the sit turns out to be significantly different than described (e.g. hygiene, safety, pet behavior), we reserve the right to end the sit early.
- TrustedHousesitters is not a service, no sitter is obligated to remain in unacceptable or misleading circumstances.
- Life happens. That’s why we believe both sides should have a backup plan and keep communication honest and open.
Final Note
We treat every sit with care and attention. We bond with animals and care for them with presence and love.
All we ask for is a space that feels like home while we make yours feel lived in and loved.
Let’s make it a win-win for everyone involved.
