Updated October 21, 2026
Where people look first
Many people start with local recommendations - neighbours, friends, the clinic or a groomer - and then extend the search online. Search engines, social media groups and community marketplaces are common ways to find nearby walkers and sitters. Local vet clinics or pet shops may keep lists or offer noticeboards.
If you prefer a searchable platform, look for providers listed with clear service descriptions and recent photos so you can compare what they offer. On Websta the category is pet care providers and the marketplace path is /marketplace/pets.
- Ask your vet or groomer for suggestions
- Search local Facebook groups or neighbourhood forums
- Use searchable profiles to compare services and availability
Questions to ask before you agree
Before booking, arrange a meet-and-greet or at least a video call. Use that time to confirm routine care, behaviour cues, how the sitter handles emergency situations, and whether they are comfortable with any special needs your pet has.
Ask about practicalities - keys and access, how many visits and how long each one is, whether feeding and walks are included, whether they can administer medication, and how they will update you while you are away.
- Can you meet first so my pet can get used to you?
- How many animals do you care for at the same time?
- Will you send photo or text updates and how often?
- Who is your backup if you are ill or unavailable?
Documents, training and insurance to check
Ask whether the provider has liability insurance that covers damage or injury while caring for your pet. Insurance is commonly recommended but not universal, so verify the policy or a certificate. Request references and, if relevant, evidence of any formal training in animal care or first aid.
If the provider presents themselves as a business, ask if they can provide a registration or tax number and a written invoice. If the arrangement is informal, discuss expectations about responsibility and payments in writing.
- Proof of liability insurance or a willingness to share insurer details
- References from recent clients or a way to contact previous customers
- Evidence of training in animal first aid or handling, if important to you
How quotes and payment are normally handled
Providers may give a per-visit, per-day or per-week quote. Ask whether travel, supplies, waste disposal or additional walks are included. Clarify cancellation terms, whether a deposit is required, and the refund policy.
On platforms that support card payments, payments are often processed through a payment provider and paid out to the provider. On Websta card payments are paid out to the provider's own bank account through Stripe and the provider sets the prices. Always get the agreed services and price in writing before the arrangement starts.
- Confirm whether the quote includes VAT or other taxes
- Agree on payment method and timing - before, during or after service
- Ask about fees for extra visits, holiday surcharges or late cancellations
Language and regional considerations in Belgium
Belgium has multiple official languages - Dutch, French and German - and language expectations depend on the region. In Flanders expect Dutch primarily, in Wallonia French, and in the German-speaking area German. In Brussels you may find providers working in French, Dutch or both.
If communication in a specific language matters to you, state that up front and confirm the sitter can follow written instructions in that language. If you live near a language border, ask how the provider handles forms, invoices and emergency instructions in the language you prefer.
- Specify the language you will use for written instructions
- Confirm the provider can follow veterinary instructions and emergency contacts in your language
Seasonality and availability
Demand for pet care typically rises around school holidays and major holiday periods, so book earlier if you need care at those times. Many local providers fill up quickly for summer or end-of-year breaks. For last-minute needs, prepare a short list of backups and ask whether a provider has a cancellation list you can join.
If your pet has seasonal needs - more walks in summer, temperature-sensitive care in heat or cold - confirm the provider's experience and equipment to manage those conditions.
- Book holiday dates as early as possible
- Discuss temperature and exercise needs for different seasons
- Ask about contingency plans for severe weather or travel disruption
How to use a Websta profile to compare providers
A structured profile helps you compare services, photos, sample prices and contact options side by side. Look for clear service lists, a description of experience, sample photos of the setting, and client feedback if available. Use the contact form or the marketplace task feature to get multiple offers for the same dates and instructions.
When you shortlist providers, use the checklist above to confirm insurance, references, language ability and emergency procedures before booking.
- Compare service descriptions and availability on profiles
- Use the platform messaging to record agreed instructions and times
- Request a written quote or booking confirmation before the first service
Frequently asked questions
- How can I check if a pet sitter has insurance in Belgium?
- Ask the sitter to show proof of liability insurance or a certificate. If they cannot provide documentation, consider choosing someone who can or arranging an alternative; record that you asked in writing.
- What should I include in a meet-and-greet with a sitter?
- Use the meeting to observe the sitter with your pet, test basic commands, explain routines, show emergency contacts and the location of medication, and confirm access arrangements and how you will receive updates.
- Do pet sitters usually accept card payments?
- Some do and some accept bank transfer or cash. On certain platforms card payments are supported and sent to the provider via the platform's payment processor. Confirm accepted payment methods before booking.
- How far in advance should I book a pet sitter for holiday periods?
- Book as early as you can, especially for summer and major holidays, because demand rises and availability drops. If you have fixed dates, start searching several weeks to months ahead.
- What documents should I leave for the sitter?
- Leave written feeding and medication instructions, your vet and emergency contact numbers, a spare key or access instructions, and any behaviour notes. Keep a copy with you and give one to the sitter.
About the numbers
Counts in this guide were read from the Websta catalogue when the text was written and are refreshed above from the live catalogue. Part of the catalogue was built from the public business register and is marked as such on each profile.
Related guides
- How to Make Money as a Pet Care Provider in Antwerp
- How to make money as a pet care provider in Belgium - practical tips
- How to Make Money as a Pet Care Provider in Bruges
- How to earn money as a pet care provider in Brussels
- How to make money as a pet care provider in Charleroi
- How to Make Money as a Pet Care Provider in Ghent