How to Home Swap with Pets: Your Ultimate Checklist for a Pawsitive Experience

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1. Bringing your pet on the home swap

If your pet’s coming along for the adventure, here’s what to keep in mind for a seamless stay.

✅ Use Swaphouse’s pet-allowed filter

Swaphouse makes it easy to find homes that welcome pets—just toggle the pet-allowed filter when swiping homes on the Explore page. You can also update your own listing to say whether you allow pets in your own home. This helps attract fellow pet lovers! Log in on Swaphouse, go to your 'Home listing' -> 'Amenities' -> 'Home rules' to set your preferences.

✅ Add pet info to your profile

Let your fellow swappers know about your furry friend! Mention your pet in your bio, add some photos of your pet, and keep everything updated right from your profile page. It’s a great way to set expectations early and connect with fellow animal lovers.

✅ Confirm pet rules

Before confirming your swap, have a quick conversation with the host about their pet policies. Make sure your pet is welcome, and ask about things like furniture access, off-limits areas, and the best spots nearby for walks or bathroom breaks. It’s a simple step that helps set clear expectations and avoids surprises later.

✅ Ask about local pet services

Knowing where to go if your pet needs help is a must. Ask about nearby vets, groomers, pet sitters, dog parks, and even pet-friendly cafés so you’re prepped for anything and can enjoy your stay stress-free.

✅ Pack smart

Bring all the essentials—food, favorite toys, a leash, poop bags, their cozy bed, and any necessary meds. Don’t forget ID tags and vet records just in case.

✅ Don't forget these

Depending on your destination, you might need vaccination records, a pet passport, or an airline-approved crate. Check in advance so your travel goes smoothly from start to finish.

✅ Ease your pet into the new home

When you arrive, give your pet a chance to settle in gradually. Set up their familiar bed or crate right away, stick to their usual feeding and walking schedule, and let them explore the space slowly at their own pace. This helps reduce anxiety and makes the swap more enjoyable for both of you.

✅ Respect the space

Keep your host’s home tidy by cleaning up after your pet daily. Bring your own pet-friendly cleaning supplies and always supervise your pet to prevent any accidental messes. A little effort goes a long way in being a great guest.

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2. Leaving your pet at home during the swap

Not taking your pet along? No problem! Here’s how to make sure they’re comfy and well cared for by your swap guest while you’re away.

✅ Add your pet care/sitting request to your profile

Let potential home swap guests know upfront that your pet will be staying home and you're looking for someone to care for them. Mention it clearly in your Swaphouse profile and home listing—this helps attract swappers who are comfortable with animals and happy to help. The more transparent you are, the easier it is to find the right match!

✅ Confirm your guest’s comfort level

Before you plan the swap, check in with your (potential) swap guest about their experience with pets. Are they comfortable with your pet’s routine? Do they have any allergies or concerns? Making sure they’re fully on board helps set everyone up for success.

✅ Create a pet manual

Think of this as your pet’s user guide. Include their daily schedule, feeding instructions, emergency contacts, any quirks or fears they might have (like thunderstorms or vacuum cleaners), and what house rules apply—like whether they’re allowed on furniture or how to handle the yard.

✅ Prep the home

Make sure your home is ready for both your pet and your guest. Stock up on food, litter, and other pet supplies, and set up clean feeding and sleeping areas. Leave out cleaning materials just in case they're needed—but be sure to store them safely out of your pet’s reach.

✅ Local support system

Share the contact info of a nearby friend, neighbor, or pet sitter who can step in if needed. Don’t forget to include the address and number of your local vet or emergency animal clinic. It’s always good to have a backup plan.

✅ Meet & greet before you go

If possible, arrange a video call before the swap so your guest can “meet” your pet virtually. It’s a great way to build trust, answer any last-minute questions, and help both sides feel more confident about the arrangement.

✅ Show appreciation

A small thank-you note, some treats, or a little gift left behind for your guest goes a long way—especially when they’ve taken good care of your furry friend. It builds goodwill and increases the chances they’ll leave your home just as spotless in return.

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3. Watching someone else’s pet during the swap

You might be asked to look after your host’s furry friend during a home swap. It’s a fun way to enjoy some animal companionship—just be sure you’re prepared for the responsibility.

✅ Know what you’re signing up for

Before you agree, ask about the pet’s type, breed, age, and any specific needs. You’ll want to know if they require daily walks, medication, or a special diet. Understanding what’s involved ensures you’re ready to provide the care they deserve.

✅ Plan your schedule accordingly

Make sure your daily plans allow enough time to properly care for the pet. If they need multiple walks a day or can’t be left alone for long, factor that into your sightseeing or remote work plans. Pet sitting during a swap is flexible—but it’s still a commitment.

✅ Ask for a detailed pet manual

Just like you’d want a guide if the roles were reversed, ask your host to provide one for their pet. It should include feeding times, potty routines, vet and emergency contacts, grooming tips, and any behavioral notes that can help you avoid surprises.

✅ Ask questions ahead of time

Clarity is key. Can you have guests over? Are there parts of the home or routines that are off-limits for the pet? What should you do if there’s a problem? Having these conversations upfront helps build trust and sets expectations for a smooth swap.

✅ Treat their home and pet with care

Remember, you’re not just a guest—you’re a temporary pet parent! Be gentle, respectful, and attentive. Follow their routines, keep the home tidy, and make sure their pet feels safe and loved while they’re away. A bit of extra care can make all the difference.

✅ Keep the host updated

Sending occasional updates or photos of their pet can be really reassuring, especially for nervous pet owners. It’s a small gesture that builds trust and shows you care.

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Bonus tips for all pet swappers

🐕 Expect accidents—be ready with cleanup gear

Even the best-behaved pets can have the occasional oops moment in a new environment. Keep cleanup supplies handy—like paper towels, pet-safe cleaning sprays, and extra trash bags—so you’re always ready to handle a little mess without stress.

🐾 Ask about other pets—yours or theirs

If either side has more than one pet or there's a potential for surprise animal encounters (like a curious neighbor cat), it’s good to know in advance. A quick chat about all the animals involved ensures there’s no unexpected drama during the swap.

✅ Always follow house rules and respect the space

Whether you're traveling with your own pet or watching someone else’s, respecting the host’s home is key. Stick to their rules, clean up after yourself and the animal, and treat the place with care. It’s all about making swaps smooth and enjoyable for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Swapping homes with pets in the mix? Totally doable—and totally worth it. Whether your pet is tagging along, staying home, or you’re looking after someone else’s, a little planning goes a long way. With Swaphouse, you’ve got a community that supports your journey—paws, tails, whiskers and all. Happy swapping!