South Australia is one of the strongest states for house sitting relative to its size, and Adelaide in particular draws more searches for sitters than its population would suggest. Sitterly connects South Australian homeowners with sitters who stay in the home, keep the pets in their own routine and keep the house occupied. Listing is free and there is no commission on the sit.
House and pet sitting on Sitterly is a two-way exchange. The sitter stays in the owner's home and cares for the pets - feeding, walks, company and the normal routine. In return, the owner provides the stay. No money changes hands for the care itself, which keeps the focus on the right match rather than the lowest price. Pets stay in the place they know, with their own bed, backyard and smells, instead of a kennel.
Sitterly's role is the connection: listings, profiles, direct messaging and optional verification badges. The agreement itself is between owner and sitter, which is why the steps below matter.
Most problems in house sitting come from unspoken assumptions, not bad intent. The fix is the same on both sides: talk first, agree in writing, and plan for the unexpected.
Retired Teacher
Hi, we're a retired couple based in Eden on the NSW Sapphire Coast. I'm a retired teacher of 35 years and my partner is a recreational fisherman who knows every wharf between Tathra and Mallacoota. We love big slow walks, animals of every kind, and a quiet life by the water. We're available for longer sits up and down the south coast.
Real Estate Agent
Hi, I'm Emma, a real estate agent based in Glenelg. My job has me on the road around Adelaide most days, but I always come home to a quiet evening with a good book and (when I'm sitting) a friendly dog at my feet. I love a beach walk along Glenelg jetty and a coffee on Jetty Road. Energetic dogs are my favourite challenge.
Stay-at-Home Parent
Hi, I'm Caitlin, a young Adelaide mum based in Norwood. We're at home with a baby so I'm always around the house, which is perfect for cats and small animals who need someone present. I grew up on a hobby farm in the Adelaide Hills and have a soft spot for shy rescue cats and bunnies. The Parade is on our doorstep so daily walks are easy.
Electrician
Hi, we're Mark and Claire Henderson, and together with our two kids (aged 9 and 12) and our labrador Max, we are a proper animal-loving family! We've been house sitting for 10 years and our children are wonderful with every pet they meet , gentle, caring and very responsible. We live in Unley and have a large garden. We're both police checked and first aid certified. As a family we offer full-time love and attention for your pets. Your home will be spotless when you return!
Nothing changes hands for the care itself. Sitterly is an exchange: a sitter stays in your South Australia home and looks after your pets, and in return they have a place to stay. Listing your home is free and there are no booking fees or commissions during our growth phase. Owners still cover their own pet costs such as food and vet care.
Post a listing describing your pets, their routine, your home and your dates, then browse sitter profiles and applications. You message applicants directly, talk or meet before anything is confirmed, and choose who you are comfortable handing your keys to.
It depends on the animal. In-home sitting keeps pets in their own house with their normal routine, beds and yard, which suits pets that find boarding stressful or that have medication and feeding routines. Boarding can be the better option for pets that need constant supervision or that cannot be left alone for the times you are away.
Sitterly is open right across South Australia, including Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, the Fleurieu Peninsula, the Barossa and the smaller towns between them. Availability depends on which sitters have listed near you, so it is worth checking your own area rather than assuming from the state as a whole.
Practical guides on what in-home pet sitting involves, what to agree in advance, and what it costs in Australia.
