July 31, 2023
As summer approached, the age-old question of where to go for vacation started creeping into my mind. The allure of sunny destinations in Europe like Spain and Italy, with their beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, called out to me. However, the thought of crowded tourist hotspots left me feeling somewhat uneasy.
As I scrolled through pictures of idyllic destinations like Minorca, Ibiza, Capri, and Sicily, my eyes unexpectedly landed on a picture of a dog. This simple image triggered a poignant realization that summertime also brings with it an unfortunate increase in the abandonment of domestic pets—a reality that has always ripped my heart. In that moment, it struck me—what about pet-sitting? This could be the perfect way to experience Spain and Italy differently while making a positive impact.
By now, you may have heard of pet-sitting, but let me refresh your memory. Pet-sitting platforms offer opportunities for pet-sitters to stay in someone’s home while caring for their beloved pets and the house. Homeowners typically advertise their vacation dates, responsibilities and expectations, while pet sitters apply for the opportunity.
TrustedHousesitters: This platform offered a plethora of options, especially in Europe and the US, from rural areas to cities, to coastlines or mountains. I find the website also user-friendly with a map and a good presentation of each pet owner.
The annual subscription fee for access was reasonable: 119 EUR per year.
This is very not expensive as one night in a hotel can easily be 100 EUR in Europe/US.
If you use the code WAVESOFCHANGE, you have 25% off on the first annual subscription, click HERE.
MindMyHouse: While it has far more options, the competition is also less fierce. You may find more rural/countryside properties. The annual subscription cost is very affordable: 29 EUR per year.
I selected a pet sitting for 3 weeks in rural Andalusia, next to Montefrio with 2 dogs and 1 cat (MindMyHouse). I selected another pet-sitting of 1 week in Rome with 2 dogs (TrustHousitters). Both experiences were smooth, I had no issue.
Nurturing bonds: Being with animals during my travels made me feel less lonely and brought a sense of companionship. As I spend time with these adorable companions, it created a beautiful exchange of love and trust. And saying goodbye has not been an easy thing.
Sustainable travel: Pet sitting allows me to explore new places without contributing to over-tourism. By immersing myself in local communities, I minimize my ecological footprint and experience travel in a more responsible way.
Contributing to local communities : I felt a deeper connection with the country. Caring for these animals allowed me to actively contribute to support pet owners during their vacations, to meet local people. One of the most rewarding aspects of pet-sitting is the knowledge that I am playing a part in preventing animals from being abandoned during the vacation season.
Cultivating mindful living: I find myself more present and mindful. I savored each moment, embracing the simple joys of living like a local in another country. This sense of mindfulness transcends into other aspects of my life, leading to a deeper appreciation for every experience.
Authentic experiences: Staying in a home rather than a hotel made my experience less impersonal and more authentic, allowing me to truly immerse myself in the local culture.
Important considerations: While pet-sitting offers a myriad of rewards, it also comes with responsibilities. Ensuring the well-being of the pets and maintaining the home requires dedication and attention to detail. Additionally, understanding the personalities and habits of the pets is essential for a successful experience
As we are only half summer, I invite to you to consider pet-sitting as an avenue for mindful travel. Embrace new environments, immerse yourself in local communities and leave a lasting imprint of positivity wherever your journey takes you.
By participating in pet-sitting, you contribute to a kinder world for animals and humans alike, making a positive impact on the lives of those you encounter.
Best waves
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