Pet sitting might look like cuddles, walks and happy pets, but there’s another part of the job that happens long before I reach the front door: the journey. Between motorways, roundabouts, holiday traffic and drivers who seem to think they’re starring in Fast & Furious, getting to an appointment can sometimes feel like an adventure of its own. I often find myself wishing for one simple piece of technology - a teleport button. Because as lovely as virtual work can be, dogs still need someone to physically show up.

When you care about the pets you’re looking after, it’s easy to put their needs first and your own concerns second. But being a pet sitter also means recognising when something doesn’t feel right. From situations that leave you feeling uneasy, to moments when your instincts tell you something isn’t right, this is a look at why personal safety matters just as much as providing good care - and why you should never feel guilty for taking your own wellbeing seriously.

Running your own pet-sitting business can give you the freedom and flexibility, but there’s another side to being your own boss. When your work independently, taking time off can also mean taking a break from your income. There’s always another booking, another expense or another financial goal to consider - and sometimes the idea of taking a proper holiday feels much harder than it sounds.