Back to the Office: How the Return to Work is Shaping Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Demand in the UK

NarpsUK helping working pet owners

As more UK professionals return to the office or juggle hybrid work schedules, one thing is apparent - pet sitting and dog walking service demand is on the increase. Pet owners who brought home furry friends during lockdowns are now looking for flexible, reliable assistance to ensure their pets are happy and well-cared for when they are away.

For pet owners and pet sitters alike, it's crucial to know how these changes in lifestyle are transforming the pet care industry. That's where NarpsUK, the UK's largest network of professional dog walkers and pet sitters, comes into play to assist both parties of the industry.

Hybrid and Remote Work: Shifting Pet Care Needs

The move to hybrid and remote work has introduced new habits for pets. Most home-based workers have now started looking for flexible dog walking or drop-in pet sitting that suits non-standard schedules.

Pet owners are seeking options like:

  • Dog walking while they are in office hours or in meetings
  • Short-term pet sitting for hybrid workdays
  • Trustworthy local carers for spontaneous office returns

For professional pet owners, the shift translates into greater part-day bookings, repeat business, and the ability to provide bespoke services like lunchtime walks, half-day home visits, and pet taxi assistance.

The Growth in Demand for Reliable Professionals

Pet owners demand to know that their pets are being looked after by insured, trained, and background-checked professionals - not amateur sitters. NarpsUK guarantees that each registered member is of high professional and ethical standards, providing owners with reassurance.

By accessing the NarpsUK pet sitter database, pet owners are able to:

  • Discover local, vetted pet sitters and dog walkers
  • View profiles, feedback, and insurance certificates
  • Contact and book directly with assured professionals

Increased transparency provides pet owners with confidence when supporting genuine, professional businesses.

How Pet Sitting Businesses Are Changing

Professional walkers and sitters are adapting their services to accommodate the post-pandemic work pattern. Many NarpsUK members now:

  • Provide flexible drop-in visits for home workers
  • Provide midday or quick-walk options for office days
  • Use digital booking tools to manage hybrid schedules
  • Introduce loyalty plans for recurring clients

NarpsUK helps its members adapt through training, downloadable business resources, and member-exclusive information sheets on running a compliant and successful pet care business.

Why Join NarpsUK?

If you’re a pet sitter, dog walker, or looking to start your own pet care business, joining NarpsUK opens the door to credibility, learning, and growth.

Members benefit from:

Dog owners also get peace of mind in knowing they're booking with the UK's most reputable association within the dog walking business. 

FAQs

1. What impact does hybrid working have on dog walking services in the UK?
Hybrid work has put more pressure on flexible short-notice walks. Mid-day or half-day walking services are now booked by many owners to fit alternating schedules.

2. Can pet sitters visit remote workers who work from home?
Yes. A number of NarpsUK sitters provide drop-in visits to provide pets with attention, play time, and outdoor relief even when owners work at home.

3. How do I locate a local, trustworthy pet sitter?
You are able to search by postcode on the NarpsUK directory, read reviews, and communicate with verified professionals directly.

4. Do pet sitters provide services within office hours?
Yes, many sitters now offer office-time visits and walks to keep pets active and relaxed throughout the day.

5. Is it possible to begin my own dog walking business in the UK?
Yes. Become a member of NarpsUK for resources, information sheets, and step-by-step advice to start your professional pet sitting or dog walking business.

Conclusion

As the workplace continues to change, so do pet care requirements. Whether you're returning to the office full-time or alternating your week between home and the workplace, NarpsUK brings you in touch with professional, trusted, and compassionate pet sitters and dog walkers throughout the UK.

Sign up with NarpsUK today and receive a 7-day free trial - where professional pet care starts.

You might also like these posts