Imagine swapping homes with someone in Paris, Amsterdam, or the Swiss Alps and bringing your dog or cat along for the adventure. For Intervac members and future members, pet-friendly home exchanges open up a whole new world of travel possibilities.
Why Choose a Pet-Friendly Home Exchange?
For many of us, pets are family. Leaving them behind in a kennel or with a sitter can be expensive, stressful, and even guilt-inducing. With a pet-friendly home exchange, you:
✅ Save money on pet care
✅ Keep your pet comfortable in a “home” environment
✅ Explore destinations with local tips on dog parks, walking routes, and pet-friendly cafes
✅ Connect with like-minded animal lovers
Plus, your exchange partner may be thrilled to have your pet stay in their home especially if they’re pet owners too.
You don’t always have to bring your pet!
One great option with home exchanges is that sometimes you don’t need to travel with your pet at all.
In many swaps, your exchange partner is happy to take care of your pet while staying in your home feeding them, walking them, and providing company so your furry friend can stay in familiar surroundings while you travel light.
This arrangement works especially well if:
🐾 Your pet is more comfortable staying at home
🐾 Your exchange partner has experience with animals
🐾 You communicate clearly about routines, food, vet info, and care instructions
It’s like having a built-in pet sitter as part of the exchange!
How to set up a pet-friendly exchange
Here are some tips to make your swap go smoothly:
🐶 Be upfront in your listing, mention your pets, their needs, and what kind of pets you’re happy to host or care for in return. Transparency builds trust.
🐾 Communicate clearly with your exchange partner, Discuss details like:
Will their home be safe for your pet ?
Are there any pet rules (e.g., no pets on furniture, certain areas off-limits)?
Are they comfortable caring for your pet at your home if you leave them behind?
🏡 Prepare your home, leave clear instructions, food, toys, and anything needed for your exchange partner, whether they’re hosting your pet or you’re hosting theirs.
Best practices for traveling with pets
✨ Check travel requirements: Some countries have specific rules around pet travel, including vaccinations, microchips, or quarantine.
🚗 Make your pet comfortable on the journey: Bring familiar items like beds, blankets, or toys. If traveling by car or plane, check pet carrier requirements.
🌍 Explore local pet-friendly spots : Ask your exchange partner for recommendations! They’ll know the best dog-friendly cafes, parks, or trails.
Why Intervac is perfect for pet lovers
Intervac’s community includes many pet owners, so you’ll find lots of people open to pet-friendly exchanges, whether you bring your pet or leave them at home under your exchange partner’s care. The platform lets you filter for pet-friendly homes, making it easier to connect with like-minded travelers.
Join the Adventure!
Ready to plan your next swap with your furry friend? Join Intervac and unlock a world of pet-friendly travel opportunities.
🐾 Follow us on Instagram @intervachomeexchange for more tips, success stories, and adorable travel snaps from our members and their pets!
