pet babysitter — As a pet owner, separation anxiety is a common concern when travel plans arise, making the idea of a pet babysitter increasingly appealing. With suitcases packed and travel itineraries in hand, many pet parents find themselves looking for reliable care for their furry companions.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
- In case of emergencies, Keeppet collaborates with Click to Vet for tele-veterinary support, monitoring every reservation closely to ensure the well-being of the pets.
- For more information, visit [email protected] or www.keeppet.com.
The rise of pet-sitting services across Europe reflects this growing need. From in-home visits that keep pets in their familiar surroundings to specialised hotels, the options are expanding. Online platforms are simplifying the process of connecting with trustworthy sitters, often providing insurance to give pet owners peace of mind.
In Cyprus, the pet-sitting market is gaining traction, with Keeppet leading the charge. This innovative platform operates on a straightforward philosophy: pets deserve a home-like experience, akin to “babysitting for pets.” As the demand for alternatives to traditional kennels and catteries grows, Keeppet is poised to make its mark.
“Pets today are true members of our families,” remarks Keeppet’s co-owner Natassa Liapaki. “When we’re away, we want the absolute best for them: cuddles from pet-loving people, a cosy home environment, and 100 per cent personalised care – not a cold cage surrounded by stressed animals.”
Recently launched in Cyprus, Keeppet builds on a decade of successful pet babysitting experience from Greece, where it is the country’s first and largest platform of its kind. The service connects pet owners with “keepers” who provide various services including pet sitting, dog walking, house visits, and day care. These services can be delivered in the pet’s home or the keeper’s, offering flexibility and convenience.
Pet owners can easily browse detailed profiles of each keeper, submit booking requests, and receive confirmation within a day. A meet-and-greet is arranged to ensure that both the pet and the owner feel comfortable. If circumstances change, cancellations and full refunds are available, and payments are only processed after services are rendered, complemented by regular updates through photos and videos.
Despite the convenience of technology, Natassa has noticed that many pet owners in Cyprus still rely heavily on personal connections for pet care. “Many prefer to leave their pets with family or friends,” she shares, acknowledging the hesitance some feel towards online services.
Pet owner María, 44, expresses her attachment to her chihuahua, stating, “I can’t wait to get home to be with him. I only want to leave him with those I trust and who love him.” Similarly, Meshelle, 50, regards her dog Millo as her second child, opting for trusted friends over professional services when possible.
Yet, Natassa believes that a shift in mindset is on the horizon. She notes, “People will increasingly choose to book trusted pet sitters online and opt for personalised, home-based care over impersonal mass solutions. This is what happened in Greece around 2022!”
Building trust is central to Keeppet’s approach. Natassa explains that all pet sitters undergo thorough vetting, submitting identification, photographs of their homes, emergency contacts, and recommendations. This diligence ensures that pet owners can feel secure in their choices.
In case of emergencies, Keeppet collaborates with Click to Vet for tele-veterinary support, monitoring every reservation closely to ensure the well-being of the pets.
The heart of Keeppet lies with its keepers—individuals who share a genuine love for animals. They come from diverse backgrounds, including families whose pets welcome new arrivals like long-lost relatives, retirees with free time, and students eager to earn some extra money.
“We’ve witnessed heartwarming stories of pets transforming for the better after staying with loving keepers,” Natassa shares, recounting cases of dogs overcoming fears and becoming better social companions.
Of course, every pet-sitting experience isn’t without its challenges. Alina, 26, who has pet-sitting experience in the Netherlands, recalls a particularly stressful situation with baby kittens. “I kept on shaking the food for one and a half hours, worried I had lost one of them,” she explains, revealing the emotional toll that caring for pets can sometimes take.
Natassa also highlights that beyond providing care, Keeppet cultivates community. Events such as outdoor gatherings at Nicosia’s dog park foster connections amongst pet owners. The platform actively supports stray animals through volunteering and donations, reinforcing its commitment to animal welfare.
As Natassa puts it, “We’ve built a real community!” For those seeking a reliable solution for pet care while travelling, Keeppet offers a promising alternative to traditional kennels, ensuring beloved pets receive the love and attention they deserve.
For more information, visit [email protected] or www.keeppet.com.
