“Pets, Places and People” Is Truly What Pet Sitting Is All About
Julie and Jonathan’s story
After catching the travel bug on a three-month trip around Thailand in 2016, Julie and Jonathan joined FurPetVo as a way to stretch their travel budget. What they didn’t expect was how deeply pet sitting would transform their journeys—and their lives.
“It is a way of visiting other parts of the world but in a very unique way,” they share. “We get to live like locals, not tourists. But what we never envisaged was just how much the pets play a huge part in our house sitting life—and hugely add to the enjoyment of our journey.”
The Heart of the Experience
For Julie and Jonathan, it’s never just about the location—it’s about connection. “The bond we form with each and every one of the pets is quite amazing,” they say. “They become your own for that time they are in your care, and we have left pieces of our hearts scattered in so many locations.”
Equally meaningful are the relationships they’ve built with pet owners. “We have made so many friends—we can honestly say all of the house and pet owners have been wonderful: generous, kind, and welcoming. So many are now close friends we keep in touch with regularly—and we’ve enjoyed repeated sits with them.”
That’s why the phrase “Pets, Places and People” resonates so deeply. “It’s truly what pet sitting is all about.”
How They Make It Work
Julie and Jonathan love browsing daily sit listings—not just for dream destinations, but for the pets themselves. “Often it’s a location that catches our eyes,” they explain, “but just as often, it’s the picture of the pets that draws our attention—the possibility of meeting and caring for them.”
Sticking closely to each pet’s routine is essential. “Keeping to the pets’ routine is very important,” they emphasize. “It helps them settle with us—newcomers in their life—and prevents confusion or stress.”
Owners appreciate thoughtful updates. “They love photos showing their pets happy and relaxed—enjoying their own little holiday with us,” Julie and Jonathan say. “When we’re sitting dogs, we especially love when they explore with us—whether it’s their usual walk or somewhere new. Sharing photos and videos reassures owners their pets are well cared for and getting plenty of exercise.”
A Journey Across America
Using furpetvo.com to its full potential, Julie and Jonathan once traveled across the United States, stringing together multiple house sits. Between sits, they explored iconic destinations—from Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks to the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Palm Springs, San Diego, and Redondo Beach.
“We would never have gotten to do this amazing trip without house and pet sitting to help with accommodation costs,” they reflect. “And what truly elevated the experience were the adorable pets—and the wonderful people—we met along the way.”
Thanks to Julie and Jonathan for sharing their heartfelt story—and for reminding us that at its best, pet sitting isn’t just about care. It’s about community, compassion, and shared joy across borders, breeds, and backyards.
