Rent-a-Pet

Ever felt like taking a stroll with a big dog or snuggling on the couch with a puppy? Pet rental websites connect dog owners and dog lovers, giving people a chance to experience all the fun of owning a pet without picking up the poop.

While these pet rental websites could be the gateway to dog adoption, they seem to cater to people who want a dog for the day rather than prospective pet parents. Some sites such as Dog Vacay are focused on connecting pet owners with pet sitters. These sites are a cheaper and more personal alternative to boarding; their focus is matching vacationing pet owners with local dog lovers.

Sites like Rent My Doggie offer a more playful version of dog borrowing. Rent My Doggy users create profiles and are then matched with the pooch of their dreams — they can pet sit, walk or just hang out with their new four-legged friend after an owner-approved Welcome Woof meeting.

Despite the well-meaning intentions behind dog rental sites, it is imperative to consider your dog’s wellbeing and monitor his/her stress level. Just like people, some pets are more social and better at adapting to new environments; if this sounds like your pooch then go ahead and spread the tail-wagging joy, otherwise be sensitive to your pet’s needs and save the apps for another day.