I’m a pet parent and often have long weekends away. What is the shortest reasonable length of time to request a sitter?
It’s not a regular thing, maybe once a month.
It depends on so many things.
Some sitters look for short local sits to built their reviews. Others look for a ‘filler’ inbetween longer sits. Some look for a change of scenery for a few days.
It would depend on how desirable your listing is, where you are, number of pets etc.
I would add that since the introduction of booking fees the shorter sits may be harder to fill.
On top of sitters paying their membership they are now expected to pay £9 for each sit regardless of length.
Currently Premium members are exempt.
I look for shorter sits within one hour to 5 hours drive time from me. I like three full days there to explore. So if the host says arrive at 9am and it’s only a two hour drive then a 4 day sit is fine for me. I am very busy in my retirement community in a new state than I lived in most of my life. Even an hour away is completely different here. I see overnight sits which I see as ridiculous to even post. But maybe some people have a free night between sits so it works for them. Post what you need and see the response. You can always adjust the listing if no response.
Hi @Steviefr,
Welcome to the forum!
That’s a good idea.
If there is some flexibility, you could also say that in your listing. For example if you can somehow add an extra night at either end or if you are open to some overlap.
Good luck!
My sit this weekend (ie in 4 days time) was cancelled last night. I’m a full time sitter so I’m scrambling to find another sit as Airbnbs and hotels are typically more expensive on a Friday and Saturday nights if you haven’t booked in advance. I’ll be looking for THS sits right up until the day before!
If you’ve in a desirable location or nice house, you might also get local sitters apply who want a change in environment and can easily get to your place.
Post your sit!
edit - although it’s not unreasonable to post your short sits last minute, be prepared with a back up (Rover or friends/family/neighbours) for your petcare
I am an example of that stated by Twitcher.
I have been willing & quite often looked forward to shorter sits nearer to home. Sadly, this will nolonger be the case after my renewal & the payment of a booking fee.
You can still do short sits, just don’t confirm them officially