Victoria is compact enough that a weekend away is easy and long enough between towns that a daily drive to feed the cat is not. Sitterly connects Victorian homeowners with sitters who stay in the house rather than visiting it, so pets keep their own routine and the place is occupied. Listing is free, the exchange is non-monetary, and we take 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 email-confirmed accounts. 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.
Animal keeper
Animal Science Master’s graduate with animal hospital experience and pet-sitting experience in New Zealand. Experienced in caring for dogs and cats, responsible, patient, and passionate about animal welfare. 🐾
Retired
My husband is about to retire and I will be looking for work We live in baxter he was a carpenter and I cared for the children and pets and looked after the household We are clean and dont smoke
registered nurse
Hello. I'm a registered nurse and mother of three who understands about responsibility and importance of structured routine to house and pet sitting. We have lovingly cared for our own labrador retriever, and our family will provide your pets with abundant love and reliable daily care. My nursing background ensures a safe, clean, and organized environment, giving you total peace of mind. Hope to hear from you soon.
Pet-sitting around Australia
Hello, I have been pet-sitting in Australia for the past 1.5 years. I understand that pets are family and require love, attention and proper care in their owners’ absence. I am reliable, respectful, and conscientious when it comes to looking after your home and furry friends. Whether it's cuddles on the couch, walks in the park or sticking to a specific routine, you can rely on me. Feel free to check out my petscapades here: https://www.instagram.com/petsittingpals?igsh=dnAwaDR4NXE0b2ow
Digital Nomad
Hi, I’m Charlie! I’m a friendly, reliable and caring animal lover who enjoys spending time with pets of all shapes and sizes. I’ve always been comfortable around dogs and cats and understand how important it is for pets to feel safe, relaxed and well cared for while their owners are away. I’m happy to follow feeding routines, take dogs for walks, provide plenty of playtime and attention, and keep your home tidy and secure. I’m respectful, easy-going and dependable, and I’ll always treat your pets and home as if they were my own. I’m also happy to provide regular updates so you can enjoy your time away knowing everything is being looked after. I look forward to meeting you and your pets! 🐾
Art Curator
Hi, I'm Nic, an art curator based in Fitzroy North. My partner and I have a 4-year-old Cavoodle of our own, so we're very confident with dogs of any temperament, and we love cats too. We host a lot at home, walk through Edinburgh Gardens daily and have a real soft spot for senior animals. Reliable, warm, and great with shy pets.
Nursing Student
Hi, I'm Mellow, a nursing student at Vic Uni in Footscray. I've grown up around cats and a beautiful tropical fish tank that my dad has had for decades, so I'm very confident with both. I'm calm, very studious and around the home most evenings. The Footscray markets and Maribyrnong River walks are my favourite local spots.
Primary School Teacher
Hi, I'm Janette, a primary school teacher based in Geelong. I'm patient, organised, and very used to caring for living things, whether they're 6-year-olds or your beloved 14-year-old labrador. Geelong's waterfront and the Bellarine Peninsula are my happy places, and I love the slower pace school holidays bring for pet sitting. Reliable, gentle and easy to communicate with.
Nothing changes hands for the care itself. Sitterly is an exchange: a sitter stays in your Victoria 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 Victoria, including Melbourne, Geelong, the Surf Coast, regional Victoria 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.
