More than 50 sits, countless animals and a decade of discovering what makes a great pet and house-sitting experience

For Emma and Stryk, house and pet sitting has become much more than a way to travel. Since 2015, they have completed more than 50 sits, caring for homes and animals while exploring new places and becoming part of the everyday lives of the pets entrusted to them.

In 2025 alone, they spent an extraordinary 20 weeks pet sitting, caring for 12 dogs, 7 cats, 6 horses, 2 donkeys and 17 chickens.

But a decade of experience has also taught them that a successful sit starts long before the homeowners leave.

Finding the right fit

Emma has become increasingly selective about the sits they take on. She reads previous reviews carefully and likes to arrange a video call with homeowners before agreeing to a sit.

“I like to get a feel for them, know what they want and expect of us, and gauge if we are a good fit for each other.”

It is an important part of the process. House and pet sitting is a relationship of trust on both sides, and open conversations beforehand help both Guardians and homeowners understand exactly what to expect.

Why transparency matters

Across more than 50 sits, difficult experiences have been rare, but they have reinforced the importance of homeowners sharing everything a Guardian needs to know.

Emma recalls occasions when important details only became apparent after a sit had begun, including a dog’s reactive behaviour and, rather unexpectedly, a family member living next door who was accustomed to simply walking into the house.

Their most challenging experience involved caring for a dog who suffered multiple seizures.

“The first time it happened, I thought she was having a stroke. After taking her to the vet and seeing it happen a few times, we knew what to do and how to look after her until she came back round. It was very distressing to witness.”

Experiences like these have made clear just how valuable honest information, careful preparation and good communication can be when somebody else is taking responsibility for much-loved pets.

Becoming part of their routine

Despite the occasional challenge, Emma and Stryk remain enthusiastic about the lifestyle.

“We absolutely love pet sitting. Sometimes it takes a couple of days to get into the new routine and for the pets to realise we are there to love and look after them. We enjoy the challenge of adapting to different homes, pets and circumstances. It keeps us on our toes!”

And for two people who love nature, the opportunity to discover somewhere new is a considerable part of the appeal.

Rather than seeking out big cities, Emma and Stryk enjoy exploring beaches, mountains, countryside and coastal paths, often with their temporary four-legged companions alongside them.

The animals make it special

For Emma, however, it is the relationships they form with the animals that really make pet and house sitting worthwhile.

“We cherish the time we get to spend with all the pets we look after. Most stay close to us all day. They just love company, and we are a bit like grandparents. We probably spoil them with extra playtime and belly rubs!”

Keeping homeowners connected is part of that care. Emma sends photographs and updates according to each owner’s preferences, whether they want to hear from their Guardian every day or simply receive an occasional update.

As she puts it:

“I think I have more photos of other people’s pets on my phone than I do of my grandchildren!”

Treating every home with respect

That same sense of responsibility extends beyond the animals.

“I always feel so lucky and privileged to be entrusted to look after people’s homes and their pets, so I’m very mindful of giving everything back exactly the way it was when we first arrived.”

It is a simple philosophy that captures much of what being a Guardian is about. Caring for someone else’s home and animals is both an opportunity and a responsibility.

After more than a decade, Emma and Stryk are still embracing both.

“Travelling, exploring, living in the moment and loving life as pet sitters.”

Emma & Stryk
Experienced Guardians and pet sitters since 2015