House Sitting in Scottish Borders

“It was really reassuring to have Eva looking after Hamish at home while we enjoyed a day out. She kept us updated and took Hamish for a long walk. Everything was in perfect order when we got home.”

Sandra W.

“Both dog and cat were happy with Kevinjon. Harley had good long walks and Kevinjon sent photos of her scampering around looking her normal active, happy self. House was left tidy, he had even stripped the bed, and cleaned the bathroom! Will definitely be asking for his availability in future to look after our two.”

Kathryn W.

About: I’m a kind and compassionate pet owner and lover who loves spending time with my horse and dog going on big hacks with my dog along side and would adore your pet the same! I currently work full time 8am-8pm however, very flexible only doing this 3x a week. However, this changes often and can accommodate from month to month. I have a lot of responsibility with my pets. My dog is walked 2x big walks a day with my horse also being fed and groomed and ridden everyday also!

About: I have around 3 years of experience caring for dogs and I truly love spending time with them. I currently work as a bank worker in a dog day care setting, where I help with collection and drop‑off around Edinburgh and support daily exploratory walks. This has given me experience managing different dogs, understanding behaviour and ensuring their safety in group environments. I also regularly walk dogs for neighbours and family in Peebles. I do this mainly because I enjoy it and love being outdoors with dogs. At home, I have 5 children who also love animals, so dogs are always treated as part of the family. I provide a calm, caring and safe environment where dogs feel comfortable and relaxed. I am very active and enjoy long exploratory walks, but I am also happy to adapt exercise depending on each dog’s individual needs. I prefer to care for a maximum of one or two dogs at a time to give them full attention and ensure their wellbeing. I have completed the IMDT Professional Day Care and Boarding qualification , which supports my understanding of dog welfare, behaviour and safe handling. I currently work part‑time from home, which gives me good flexibility to care for dogs during the week. I am available for walks, home visits and daycare, and I can also offer boarding. My daily routine already includes time outdoors, so I enjoy taking dogs on regular walks, whether this is a calm one-hour walk or a longer exploratory walk depending on the dog’s needs. I am happy to adapt my schedule to suit each dog, especially if they require specific routines for feeding, rest or exercise. I normally keep owners informed by sending regular updates and photos of our daily activities, so they can see how their dog is doing and feel reassured. I provide a safe environment where dogs are treated as part of the family. I usually care for one or two dogs at a time so I can give them my full attention and make sure they feel comfortable. In my home, dogs have access to indoor & outdoor spaces to rest and relax, as well as regular time for walks and enrichment. I always prioritise safety, using leads, harnesses or controlled environments where appropriate, and adapting activities to each dog’s age, health and personality.

“Cloe was very nice with Otto. They have passed very nice time together walking and playing . Highly recommended ☺️”

Esther C.

“Naomi looked after our dogs and house so well. She came before the sit to do a meet and greet, and the dogs were very comfortable around her. Naomi followed their routine and provided enrichment for them, she sent daily updates and photos. The dogs were calm and relaxed when we arrived home, always a good sign! And the house was spotless - we can highly recommend Naomi and will be booking her again before long!”

Isabel V.

About: I grew up loving dogs from a very young age, often volunteering to walk my neighbours dogs whenever I could. Since then I have pointed my career in the direction where I can offer services to other people’s pets as I understand trusting a stranger with your animals can be extremely difficult. I work in a vet practice and am currently studying an advanced certification in canine behaviour. I’m up to date with first aid for pets and confident when dealing with emergencies. I can provide FaceTime calls, regular updates and photos of your pets! I have four very amazing dogs myself which I trained. Arlo is a Dutch herder and full of beans, at four years old I have to make sure he is kept active! He loves swimming on the weekends, climbing up some Munros and annoying his older brother Delta! Delta is a German shepherd and has a heart of gold. His favourite thing to do in the whole world is swim in the sea and loves to go camping! He has a rather unusual obsession with rocks which started when he was a puppy.. but he continues to make myself and everyone else laugh as he will do anything to try and bring one home. I have another Dutch shepherd Moose who would literally hang the moon and stars out himself if it meant seeing other people happy, this boy just radiates happiness! And Toula who is my newest addition, she is a Belgian malinois and has to be the most affectionate dog ever, she’d love to travel anywhere she could on my shoulders… if it was possible! I absolutely adore animals and I’ll always find myself around them more than people. I have experience working with more “challenging” dogs that tend to have different behavioural preferences, I’ve worked closely with the training and assessment of police dogs and hope to set up my own behaviour/training business by the end of the year. Please do not hesitate to get in touch ❤️ I currently work full time in a vet practice but I am available on the weekends or after working hours. I often take the dogs to the beach, lochs, new field or to climb a Munro on the weekends. I would be able to offer more availability if given enough notice as I can take time off work, I’m also available to attend before or after working hours! I understand leaving your pets with someone you don’t know can be very unsettling, I can provide valid references, FaceTime calls, pupdates and photos of your pets on a regular basis. i also understand owners may not want their dog to be given treats, walked for too long or taught different habits so I am always more than happy to do as the owner requests with full trust and confidence that I can give your animals the best care/adventures as possible.

About: I have had many years experience with cats and dogs of all ages and varieties of health and behaviour issues. I am currently retired and looking to spend time being a cat or dog nanny whether it’s daycare, drop in visits or house sitting. I love going on walks along the beach and around the lakes, often stopping for a coffee which I would love to bring another companion along. I currently have a small shihpoo called Isla, she’s super friendly and loves having friends to join us on our adventures. I also provide lots of updates and photos of there adventures with me and will tailer care to best suit there needs. Looking forward to hearing from you soon. I’m a retired active lady who is happy to provide love, care and attention to your family pets. I have the time to give them the attention they need and deserve. I am currently looking to care for pets in your home. I am used to following strict medication and dietary requirements necessary to keep them safe and well. I provide all the love and care that they need and follow each owner’s wishes for their personal care.

“Julia took amazing care of our 10 week old puppy. She was also very flexible and responded to my last minute request. Our puppy was relaxed and sound asleep when we got home. Julia also took very good care of our house and left everything spotless. I would absolutely recommend her to others, she is very friendly and responsible :) Thank you so much!”

Bianka H.

About: Ive looked after dogs since i was with my family and around friends. Ive trained puppies and adults. Both in basic training and in trauma Im currently working part time but i can definatley find time to play with your pups or board overnight. Im very keen and hard working I habe a shared garden fence and i can easily crate your puppy or dog if needed. I will feed them . Walk them on nice walks and routes theyd enjoy. Have plenty of training time and lots of physical and mental stimulation

About: I am a deaf Scottish bikepacker with a love of dogs and cats. I have a mixed chocolate Labrador dog named Molly back home in Edinburgh, who is very lovable with a huge personality. I also had a cat called Socks who used to love coming on walks with me and the dog through the park and up the Braid Hills. Over the past year since I started providing my services I have looked after a cat for a family on holiday, a spaniel puppy for a couple, and I looked after my neighbour's two labrador dogs Zephyr and Pyrrha for a month house-sitting while my neighbour was away on holiday. So I have experience house-sitting at someone else's place. I am flexible when it comes to short-term or long-term arrangements, with different breeds and range of ages from puppy to elderly. I have also had experience and the ability to handle larger dogs such as Irish Wolfhounds, such as during my bike-packing adventures through Ireland. I find that animals are naturally drawn to me and feel easy going with me. I am very observant of dogs' body language, and I wear a hearing aid so I am able to hear if that's the case. I am a bikepacker currently at home, not travelling at the moment. As I move to a different location, if I am travelling, I usually update where I am as I normally stay in an area for 3-7 days. I provide pet care as a way to make some extra income while I travel. Very flexible with the duration of time staying at a pet owner's house. Possibly long-term of multiple months, with daily pet care (multiple walks, exercise, treats, wash/baths). Dogs and cats are naturally drawn to me and almost always approach me in public. I am very laidback and easygoing but I can be firm when needed to be. Capable of handling large dogs such as Irish Wolfhounds, as i have experience walking them. I am 6ft4 and strong enough to keep Irish Wolfhounds heeled. Since I am deaf, I am very observant. Though I do wear hearing aids and am able to hear dog and cat sounds (barks, whining, meowing etc), I rely more on my visual skills, so this enables me to develop a good rapport with the animals I care for. I am very attentive to the needs of pets in my care, and I will ensure they look to me for guidance.

About: I’ve cared for dogs since I was around 10 years old, including a Golden Retriever, Chihuahua, and other mixed breed small dogs. I’ve helped with walking, feeding, bathing, and giving lots of attention and playtime. I’m patient, calm, and very responsible, and I always adapt to each dog’s personality and routine. I especially enjoy caring for small and medium dogs and making sure they feel safe, comfortable, and loved. As an MSc student, I have a flexible schedule outside of classes, which allows me to spend quality time with pets during the day and evenings. I plan my activities around their feeding, walking, and play routines so they receive proper care and attention. I enjoy spending time at home, so pets will not be left alone for long periods, and I can provide consistent companionship and supervision. I'm mostly free on Friday, Saturday and Sundays. I always follow the owner’s instructions carefully and keep pets in safe, clean, and calm environments. I pay close attention to doors, food safety, and any special needs or medications. In a pet owner’s home, I respect their space and maintain the pet’s usual routine to reduce stress. I believe trust is very important, so I communicate clearly and provide updates so owners feel confident their pets are safe and happy.

“Rachel and Josh are regular dog sitters for us and always take very good care of our nervous older terrier. We have just returned from holiday to a very comfortable and happy dog and a very tidy house. Thanks again both! Very much appreciated and highly recommended.”

pauline m.

About:

About: Here's a tightened version that keeps all the key info while sounding warm and credible: Hola! I'm Lucía, originally from Argentina and happily settled in Leith, Edinburgh for the past 6 years. I've always had animals in my life (dogs, cats, frogs, even sheeps!) and a home just doesn't feel complete without a pet in it. Back in Argentina I had two rescued dogs, Afrika and Sandro, who I adore to this day. I have plenty of pet sitting experience through other platforms (happy to share profiles with 5★ reviews!), so while I'm new here, I'm not new to this. 🙂 My location works in your favour: I'm a 1-minute walk from Dalmeny Park, ~10 min from Leith Links, and ~20 min from Holyrood — plus my building has a lovely green garden. Plenty of safe, green options for walks! A bit about my day: I'm a lawyer by training, but in Scotland I work from home as a Project Manager for an active travel organisation. Flexible hours mean I can offer your pet real company, multiple walks throughout the day, and plenty of attention — not just a quick check-in. 🐾 Boarding (your pet stays with me) Multiple walks daily to nearby parks - Kept to their usual routine (feeding times, etc.) - Regular photos & videos - Medication administered as instructed - Always kept on-lead unless you say otherwise 🐾 House sitting (I stay at yours) - Agreed walks + playtime and mental stimulation - Basic training reinforcement if you're working on anything - Regular updates with photos & videos - Home left clean and tidy as received! - Medication administered if needed - On-lead unless explicitly told otherwise I especially love longer stays during holidays — real bonding time! For trips of 2+ weeks, feel free to ask about a discount. 😊 Your pet will be treated as family. I hope to meet you soon! ♥️ Lucía 🐾 I work from home as a Project Manager with a flexible routine, so pet care fits very naturally into my day. I can offer plenty of company, attention, playtime, cuddles and regular walks throughout the day, rather than leaving pets alone for long periods. I live in Leith, very close to Dalmeny Park, Leith Links and other lovely green spaces, so dogs staying with me will have good options for safe and enjoyable walks. I’m also happy to keep to your pet’s usual routine as much as possible, including feeding times, walk times, rest, medication and any little habits that make them feel at home. I especially enjoy looking after pets during holidays or longer stays, as it gives us time to properly bond and build trust. Whether your pet stays with me or I stay in your home, my priority is to make them feel safe, loved and relaxed. I follow the owner’s instructions carefully, including feeding routines, walking preferences, medication, sleeping arrangements and any behaviour or training guidance. I never let dogs off lead unless I have clear permission from the owner. I also take time to understand each pet’s personality, including what makes them happy, nervous, excited or uncomfortable. I’m confident with dogs and cats with different needs, including pets who need a slower approach, extra patience or medical support. I have experience administering tablets, ear drops and liquid medication mixed into food for different diagnoses. I have also administered injections to dogs, and although I have not yet done this with cats, I would be comfortable doing so if required and with clear instructions. I have also cared for a three-legged cat, so I understand the importance of adapting care to each animal. In a pet owner’s home, I’m respectful, tidy and careful. I’ll keep your pet’s routine consistent, send regular photos and videos, and make sure they feel cared for while you’re away.

About: The opportunity to offer love and care for a pet feels like a real privilege. Getting to know them, showing them affection, care and fun is a big part of house and pet sitting/pet care for us. We are patient, responsible and kind, and understand the need that pet owners have to share a bond with their sitters. We love to gain new experiences and memories through looking after your pet - feels like a win win to us! We understand the trust that someone places upon us to look after their pet and where applicable their home - and we take on any house/pet sits, dog walking with that in the front of our mind. (We have public liability insurance and an Animal Boarding Licence (ref 546253) from City of Edinburgh Council.) Hi - We're based in Edinburgh - and both work part time freelance (and as digital nomads to suit our pet sitting and pet caring adventures!) so we're able to be flexible as needed. Active house swappers for the last 20 years we are passionate about new experiences and getting the most out of life and pet sitting/dog care has become a great part of our lifestyles. We have been active pet sitters for the last 4 years - and bring with us lots of great reviews! If you are interested in us for house sitting arrangements, we've been involved in house sits for 20+ year (though both pet sitting and home exchange platforms). (We have public liability insurance and an Animal Boarding Licence (ref 546253) from City of Edinburgh Council.) We have a fully fenced off garden area and wooden floors in all downstairs living areas. For overnight pet sits we ask the pet owner to bring a favourite pet bed, food bowl with them to help your pet relax and feel 'at home'. We take dogs on a wide variety of walks direct from our home, with the Pentland Hills just five minutes walk away.

About: I’ve looked after friends and family’s pets for a while whenever necessary, I have experience with different breeds/sizes and love time spent with animals! I’m currently working part time and my hours are very flexible week by week! I live right next to the pentlands so plenty walks and outdoor time. I have a fenced garden at the back, with decking, and a front garden space. I have one young female spaniel called Rosie who is very friendly!

“Tessa and Sean stayed at our house for 8 days to look after our nervous rescue dog. They were fantastic in giving him the reassurance that he needed and allowed him to build in confidence whilst in their company. Communication was great with lots of photos and they left the house spotless when we returned. We can’t recommend them highly enough and would definitely book them again in the future.”

Paula E.

About: I had various small animals growing up (guinea pigs, gerbils, hamsters, goldfish and stick insects!) who I loved and cared for. I now live with my sister who has a 6 year old Wiggy called Jelly, who I call my niece♥️ I have done many house/pet sits over the years for family and friends, as well as for people I have met through work. I’m comfortable with all dog breeds and cats too, as well as any other animals you may have. I work 9-5 Monday-Friday, and am able to work from home for part of the week (or most of, if necessary). On weekends I can be at home with pets full time. I live with my sister and her dog so I permanently have a dog in my home who I help look after. I have also spent weeks at a time house sitting/pet sitting in the past for different friends and family, and people I have met through work. Whatever your animal needs in terms of routine, I am flexible and can adjust to whatever works for you.

About: I have 15 years of experience looking after my own dogs. I understand doggy language and will do the best to care to your dogs needs. Happy to go for long walks or a nice relax together indoors. Becoming a sitter as I miss having my furry friend around. Happy to cater to all your special requirements and keep your dog as much in their routine and habits as possible! I currently work Monday- Friday 9-5 and I am available over the weekends. May have weekdays available during annual leave. Happy to fit in at short notice if I am free. I live in a flat but there is open green space outside that your pet can use, parks and loch nearby. I will be in the room with your dog making sure they are safe!