Overnight Stays vs. Almost Overnights: What’s Right for Your Pet?

When your day extends late or your travel plans pull you away overnight, choosing the right type of care for your furry friend becomes essential. At Critter Sitter, we offer two popular options to accommodate your pet’s routine: Overnight Stays and Almost Overnight Visits. Each serves a unique purpose and is suited for different pet personalities and household needs.

Let’s explore the differences so you can decide what works best for your pet and your schedule.

What is an Overnight Stay?

An Overnight Stay means your Critter Sitter professional will remain in your home from evening through morning, typically for 9 to 10 hours. This ensures your pet has company through the night—just like they would if you were home.

What’s included in an Overnight Stay:

• Dinner and bedtime feeding

• Evening walk or litter box scoop

• Settling in for the night with your pet

• Morning routine: feeding, walks, playtime

• Administering medications, if required

• Lots of cuddles, companionship, and love

This option is perfect for pets who thrive on companionship, need routine bedtime rituals, or feel uneasy sleeping alone.

What is an Almost Overnight Visit?

Our Almost Overnight Visits offer an extended stop-in that typically takes place in the evening, lasting about 2–3 hours. It’s ideal for pet parents who want their pets to enjoy dinner, playtime, and some snuggles before bedtime—but don’t necessarily need someone to stay all night.

What’s included in an Almost Overnight Visit:

• Feeding and fresh water

• An evening walk or potty break

• Playtime or couch cuddles

• Administering medications (if applicable)

• Setting up your pet for a peaceful night’s rest

This service can be paired with a midday visit the next day to complete the full cycle of care while you’re away.

Which Option Fits Your Pet?

Choose Overnight Stays if:

• Your pet has separation anxiety or becomes vocal when left alone at night

• You have a puppy, senior pet, or animal needing late-night bathroom breaks

• Your pet is used to sleeping in the same room or bed with you

• Your home requires someone to be present overnight for security or plant care

• You’ll be gone for several consecutive nights

Overnight stays provide the most complete, uninterrupted coverage and peace of mind—for both pets and pet parents.

Choose Almost Overnights if:

• Your pet is independent and sleeps well on their own

• They are accustomed to a midday visit and an evening check-in

• You’re out for a single night or just need extended evening care

• Your pet doesn’t require early-morning assistance

• You’d like a more budget-friendly option that still provides substantial care

Almost overnights work especially well for routine-oriented pets or households with multiple animals who enjoy interaction before bedtime but don’t need someone present all night.

Ideal Scenarios

• Puppy with potty needs? Go with Overnight Stay.

• Older cat that sleeps through the night? Try an Almost Overnight.

• Going away for a long weekend? Pair an Almost Overnight with a midday visit for full coverage.

• Have a diabetic pet on a strict schedule? Overnight may be your best bet.

Critter Sitter’s Commitment

Both options come with Critter Sitter’s signature care: GPS-tracked arrivals and departures, detailed journals with photos, and real-time updates—so you’re always in the loop.

We know how important it is to trust who’s watching your pets and your home. That’s why our sitters are thoroughly vetted, background-checked, and trained to meet the unique needs of every pet we care for.

Why Choose Critter Sitter?

• Flexible services to match your lifestyle

• Transparent pricing and scheduling

• Pet journals + GPS = trust & peace of mind

• Compassionate, reliable local sitters

• Specialized care for senior pets, puppies, and medical needs

• Easy online booking system

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right care plan can make all the difference in how your pet experiences your absence. Whether they crave constant attention or just a bit of evening comfort, we have a solution that fits.

Let’s build the perfect schedule for your furry friend! 🐾