November is here, and you know what that means! Holiday plans are starting to take shape, suitcases will soon be coming out of storage, and families throughout the South Metro are making plans for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.
But if you’re a pet parent, there’s one more thing on your holiday to-do list: figuring out who’s going to take care of your furry family members while you’re away.
We get it. Leaving your pets behind isn’t always easy. You want to know they’re happy, comfortable, and getting plenty of attention while you’re off making holiday memories.
And here’s something worth considering: What if your pets didn’t have to go anywhere at all?
For many dogs and cats, staying in their own home with a caring pet sitter is a wonderful alternative to boarding. They get to enjoy their familiar surroundings, stick to their regular routines, and have someone stop by to give them attention, affection, and all the little things that make their tails wag.
Think of it as their very own staycation!
Why Home Is a Pretty Great Place to Stay
Every pet has their own personality and preferences. Some love an adventure, while others are happiest when life stays comfortably familiar. For pets who enjoy their home environment, in-home pet sitting offers some pretty wonderful benefits.
Familiar surroundings and comforting routines
Their favorite sleeping spot? Still there. Their usual dinner dishes? Right where they belong. The neighborhood smells, familiar sounds, and cozy places they love? No changes necessary!
Less disruption to their day
Meals, playtime, potty breaks, and litter box routines can continue as usual. Your pets don’t have to adjust to an unfamiliar environment or a different daily schedule.
No extra travel for your pets
While you’re navigating holiday traffic or catching a flight at MSP, your pets get to skip the car ride, the drop-off, and the adjustment to a new place. They can simply settle in at home and enjoy their usual surroundings.
A particularly nice option for cats
Cats are often very attached to their territory and daily routines. Staying home means they can enjoy their favorite sunny windows, familiar hiding spots, toys, and sleeping places. And with a pet sitter stopping by, they also get some welcome company, playtime, affection, and attention along the way. (Yes, cats can be quite the social butterflies!)
The At Home Pet Care Difference: It’s the Little Things That Matter
We’ve been caring for pets throughout the South Metro for over 27 years, and we’ve learned something along the way: the little things really are the big things.
It’s not just about showing up, putting food in a bowl, and heading out the door. It’s about getting to know each pet, paying attention to their individual needs, and making sure they have a positive experience while their family is away.
Here’s what you can expect when you choose At Home Pet Care:
Complimentary Practice Visit
We want your pets to feel comfortable before your trip even begins. That’s why we offer a complimentary practice visit. It’s an opportunity for us to run through the routine and address any hiccups before you leave town, and for you to feel more confident about leaving home.
A Carefully Selected and Professionally Prepared Team
Our team members are thoroughly screened and background-checked, and our services are bonded and insured. We also provide training in pet care, behavior, emergency preparedness, and home security. You can feel good knowing your pets and home are in capable, caring hands.
Photo Updates and Nose Boops Journals
Wondering what your pets are up to while you’re away? You’ll receive visit updates with photos and notes about how things went. From happy greetings and silly antics to cozy afternoon naps, we love sharing those little moments that make you smile and remind you that your pets are having a good day.
Our Better Than We Found It Philosophy
We believe good pet care includes looking after your home, too. We take care of the little details, such as wiping down food and water bowls, cleaning up litter around the box, bringing in mail and packages, adjusting lights and blinds, and checking locks before we leave.
Minnesota Winter Weather Readiness
Minnesota winters have a personality of their own! Our sitters are prepared for chilly temperatures, wet paws, and unpredictable weather. We bring along towels for drying off paws, adjust outdoor time when temperatures call for it, and keep an eye on things like icy walkways and garage doors. Your pet’s comfort and safety always come first.
Pet Care Without Surprise Fees
Holiday travel can be expensive enough without unexpected pet-care charges!
We’ve always believed in keeping things straightforward and fair. That’s why we do things a little differently:
- No Holiday Fees: Holidays don’t come with extra charges. You pay the same rates year-round.
- No Per-Pet Fees: Have two dogs and a cat? Three cats who think they own the place? We charge by visit length, not by the number of pets in your family.
- No Cancellation Fees: Plans change. Flights get delayed, weather gets unpredictable, and sometimes life happens. We don’t charge cancellation fees.
These are just a few of the ways we strive to make pet care easier for our clients. We want you to feel good about choosing us, knowing exactly what to expect without worrying about extra fees popping up along the way.
Proudly Caring for Pets Throughout the South Metro
We’re proud to provide in-home dog and cat sitting throughout the South Metro, including:
- Eagan
- Apple Valley
- Burnsville
- Rosemount
- Lakeville
- Farmington
Whether you live in a quiet neighborhood in Eagan, near one of Apple Valley’s beautiful lakes, or in a growing Lakeville community, our team is ready to help make your time away easier for you and more comfortable for your pets.
Make This Holiday Season Easier for Everyone!
Your holiday memories should be filled with family, fun, and time spent with the people you love—not worries about who’s checking on the pets back home.
At Home Pet Care is here to help keep your pets happy, comfortable, and cared for in the place they know best: home.
If you’re planning holiday travel, we’d love to meet you and your pets, answer your questions, and help you find the right care schedule for your family.
Let’s make this holiday season a little easier for everyone, including the four-legged members of your family!
Contact Us to get started.
How can we make your pet’s tail wag?
Sunshine is the owner of At Home Pet Care, LLC. and has walked thousands of miles, carried heavy food bags, soothed nervous pet parents, and shoveled snowy paths to reach clients. She’s built bonds with shy pets and mentored a team of sitters who care deeply—just like she does.