Frequently Asked Questions

I have been animal and house sitting for over fifteen years. During this time, I have taken care of various properties, including apartments, houses, and small holdings. I have also taken care of many different types of pets, from dogs and cats to birds and reptiles as well horses and small farm animals such as poultry, sheep, goats and pigs. 

Yes, I am certified in pet first aid and CPR. For equestrians, I am BHS qualified with a life time experience of looking after my own and other people’s horses. I also have experience administering medication to pets and can follow specialized care plans for senior pets or pets with special needs. 

I respect and follow all house rules set by the homeowner. I also understand the importance of privacy and will not invite guests or use any personal items without permission. Your home and belongings will be treated with the utmost care and respect.

My prices are fully inclusive for the agreed period of care — there are no hidden fees. The only time additional charges might apply is if you request extra services outside of our original agreement (for example, additional visits, grooming, specialist tasks, or travel beyond my usual service area).

In the unlikely event of an emergency (for example, if your pet needs urgent veterinary treatment), you would be responsible for any costs incurred. I will always try to contact you — or your nominated emergency contact — before any decisions are made, but your pet’s wellbeing will always be my priority. 

I always recommend that clients keep their usual home and contents insurance in place while I’m staying in their property. It’s also a good idea to make sure any valuables are covered against accidental damage, just as you normally would.

Animals Great and Small is fully insured with public liability cover of up to £5,000,000. This means you’re protected in the unlikely event of any accidental damage or injury caused by my negligence. Please note, though, that this doesn’t include normal wear and tear or damage due to breakdown.

Some home insurance policies have rules about how long a property can be left unoccupied, which is another reason having a house sitter can be helpful — it often means your cover stays valid while you’re away. It’s always worth double-checking your policy before you travel, just to be sure you’re fully covered for the whole time you’re gone.

My service is focused solely on caring for animals and looking after your home. I’m not insured or qualified to provide care for children or vulnerable adults, so I’m unable to offer that as part of my service. If you require those kinds of arrangements, I recommend using a dedicated care provider alongside my pet and house sitting service.

Because I only take sits where I can dedicate the time and attention your animals needs. I don’t treat this as a quick stop-in, a free holiday or a side hobby — it’s what I do, and I treat every animal as if they were my own.

Some pet sitting services cover just the basics — a quick visit, an overnight stay, or just “checking in.” When you book me, I am exclusive to you for that period, I am not popping in to other clients to check in or exercise their animals, you’re booking someone who takes the time to really be present for your animals. For example, if your dog needs medication at a specific time or your horse is on a strict turnout schedule or diet, I’ll follow it to the letter so you can relax knowing they’re in good hands.

There are lots of different options when it comes to pet and house sitting — from people who do it as a favour or hobby to fully professional services like mine. All of them can suit different situations and budgets.

Animals Great and Small is a professional, insured service, which means you can trust that I’ll be there when I say I will, follow your animals’ routines carefully, and look after your home with the same care and attention I give my own. My pricing reflects not just the time I spend in your home, but also the peace of mind that comes with knowing everything is being handled reliably and responsibly.

For many people, that reassurance — and knowing their animals are in experienced hands — is well worth the investment.

If there’s ever a medical or safety emergency involving your pets or property, I’ll contact you (or your nominated emergency contact) straight away. If needed, I’ll also contact your vet or relevant services without delay. Your pet’s wellbeing and your home’s safety will always be my top priority.

I’m always happy to provide updates while you’re away — whether that’s daily messages, photos, or a quick check-in every few days. We’ll discuss what works best for you before your trip, so you can relax knowing your pets and home are in safe hands.

Bookings are often made several weeks, months or even a year ahead, especially for special occasions, during school holidays and summer. We recommend getting in touch as soon as you know your dates so we can reserve your slot.

Yes. We always like to meet you and your animals before a first booking. It’s a relaxed visit to get to know each other, go through routines, and make sure everyone feels comfortable. 

If your return is delayed, please let us know as soon as possible. We’ll continue caring for your animals until you’re home. Additional days are simply charged at the normal daily rate.

A 25% deposit is required to secure your booking. The balance is due 14 days before the start of the sit. Bookings aren’t confirmed until the deposit has been received. You can see further info on pricing here

I’ll always contact you first whenever possible, but if immediate care is needed, I’ll take your pet to your registered vet (as authorised in your Veterinary Release Form). You remain responsible for any veterinary costs.

Please make sure there’s enough food, medication, cleaning supplies, and any special equipment for the full duration of your trip. We will also need your completed Animal & Owner Information Sheet and Veterinary Release Form before the sit begins.