Navigating Home Swapping With Pets

Many of our Kindred members have questions about what home swapping means for their pets. The term "pet-friendly" can be a bit ambiguous when it comes to home swapping. People often ask:

• If a home is pet-friendly, does that mean I can bring my pets, or does that mean a pet will be waiting for me upon arrival? 
• What happens if I have a pet that needs to be taken care of in my home while I’m gone?

Here, we'll go through how pet parents should approach home swapping to ensure hosts, guests, and furry family members are happy during the process. 

Adding your pet to your profile

First and foremost, add your pet to your Kindred profile. Your profile is your way to introduce your family to other members ahead of swapping—and yes, pets are family too! You should indicate on your profile if you usually travel with your pet or if your pet will be in the home during swaps.

Bringing your pet with you

If you love traveling with your pet, and couldn’t imagine going anywhere without them, we’ve got you covered. All we ask is that pet-related stays are expressly discussed and agreed upon by both members ahead of booking. When you’re requesting to take a trip using the Kindred app, include pertinent information about your pet. Details should include: 

• Pet breed 
• Pet age
• Shedding (or non-shedding) information 
• Level of training, if relevant 
• Whether you'd like to leave the pet unaccompanied in the home without a crate or enclosure 
• Whether you’ll need to grant home access to a dog walker or similar

Plus, it never hurts to reinforce the level of care and commitment you’ll take to protect the host’s home. This can include listing any items (like crates, beds, and blankets) that you may bring to minimize your pet's impact, or reassuring the host about your pet's demeanor.

Leaving your pet at home

Hoping to leave your pet at home while you travel? There are plenty of pet lovers on Kindred who'd be excited to watch your furry family member while staying at your place. Clear communication with the guest as well as up-to-date instructions on how to care for your animal will ensure your pet is well cared for. Here's what to do:

• Ask prospective guests who request to stay in your home if they're comfortable pet-sitting.
• Schedule a call to chat with your guest about your pet. You’ll have the opportunity to understand your guests’ experience with animals and have total control in confirming the stay ahead of the swap. 
• Update your home guide with clear pet-sitting instructions. This can include feeding schedules, approved food items, walk schedules, potty schedules, litter box instructions, and more. Anything you think is relevant to the care of your pet should be included!  
• Inform Kindred* of any pet care arrangements so that we can help or assist if needed.

With some thoughtful planning and clear communication, you and your pet can enjoy everything the Kindred community has to offer!

*Kindred is not responsible for caring for any member’s pet, and will not be held liable for any injury or damage to a member’s pets or involving the pets.