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Professional Pet Sitter Week 2025: Why Choosing Canadian Independent Pet Sitters Matters!

Writer: Kathleen for PaskapooKathleen for Paskapoo

Canada map with images of pets

Professional Pet Sitter Week is here, and it's a great time to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of local, independent pet care providers, dog walkers and pet sitters across Canada. But this week isn’t just about recognizing great professional pet sitters! It’s also a chance to talk about the bigger picture: supporting local businesses helping to keep our economy strong.


In the current economic climate, marked by a robust #MadeinCanada movement, supporting homegrown businesses is more crucial than ever.


When you hire a pet sitter or dog walker, your choice goes beyond just who will take care of your pet. It’s also about where your money goes and who benefits from it. And right now, with economic uncertainty and international pressures, supporting Canadian businesses has never been more important.

This article by Paskapoo Pet Services explores the significance of choosing local pet sitting services, contrasts them with international platforms like Rover, and underscores the broader economic and community benefits of keeping our spending within Canada as much as possible.


Paskapoo Pet Services: Proudly Canadian


Paskapoo Pet Services, like most independent pet sitting and dog walking businesses in Canada, is proudly Canadian-owned and operated. We live in the same communities as our clients, shop at the same stores, and invest in local businesses just like you.



The Rise of International Pet Sitting Platforms


But in recent years, big international companies have entered the pet care industry, offering online marketplaces that connect pet owners with side-hustle sitters. One of the biggest players is Rover, an American company with global investors. While Rover and these platforms may seem convenient, they come at a cost. Rover takes a commission of more than 20% from each transaction, sending a significant portion of Canadian pet owners’ money out of the country and to Rover's headquarters in the United States - instead of reinvesting it in local businesses and communities.



Why Supporting Local Canadian Independant Pet Sitters Matters ❤️


Choosing a local independent pet sitter means more than just keeping your dollars in Canada. It has a ripple effect that benefits everyone. Here’s how:


  • Strengthening the Local Economy: When you support a local business, your money stays in the community. It helps create jobs, supports other local businesses, and contributes to a stronger economy overall.


  • Better Service and Personal Connections: Independent pet sitters often offer more personalized and experienced reliable care than larger platforms, building lasting relationships with pets and owners.


  • Keeping Prices Fair: Large international platforms often take a hefty cut from pet sitters’ earnings, forcing them to raise their rates or accept lower pay. Supporting independent businesses means your money goes directly to the person providing care, keeping services fair and sustainable.


  • Reducing Inflationary Pressures: When money stays within Canada, it strengthens our economy and helps keep inflation in check. A strong network of local businesses creates competition, leading to fair pricing and better services for everyone.


  • Fostering Community Growth: Local businesses contribute to the community in ways big corporations don’t. Many sponsor local events, donate to shelters, and participate in charitable initiatives that benefit both people and animals.


The Power of Your Choice


Every time you choose to book with a local independent pet sitter instead of an international platform, you’re making a decision that benefits your pet, your community, and the Canadian economy. Your choice helps independent pet care providers thrive, ensures fair wages for workers, and keeps our communities strong.


The logo of Pet Sitters International with the mention Get a Real Pet Sitter

This Professional Pet Sitter Week, let’s take a moment to celebrate not only the dedicated pet sitters who care for our animals but also the power of supporting local businesses. It’s a simple choice that makes a big difference! 😁


Looking for a trusted, Canadian-owned pet care provider? Choose local. Choose independent.





 

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