Pet Sitting in Luxembourg During the Holidays: What You Need to Know

Last year, Lucile adopted a beautiful British Longhair cat. After only a few months with her new family, the question of the holidays arose...

“Most cats are fine on their own for a few days, as long as they have water and food. But ours is a bit like a dog... He can't stand being alone. I was a bit reluctant to put him in a cattery, as he was only 6 months old. So I looked at all the possibilities that were open to us.”

Different Pet Care Options
 

1. Licensed Pet Boarding Facilities

Pet boarding facilities offer a reliable and regulated solution. These are professional establishments specifically designed to care for dogs, cats, or other animals while you are away.

Key Point:

In Luxembourg, operating a pet boarding facility for commercial purposes is strictly regulated. In particular, it requires:

• prior ministerial authorization,
• an operating license,
• inspections conducted by ALVA (the Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration),
• compliance with strict animal welfare standards, 
• as well as proof of staff qualifications and training.
   

These requirements ensure a safe and professional environment for your pet.

You can view the official list of approved boarding facilities here.

2. Pet Sitting via Online Platforms

Platforms such as Pawshake, Yoopies, or PetBacker connect individuals offering pet-sitting services.

Please note: Not all offers on these platforms necessarily comply with Luxembourg’s legal framework.

• If the pet-sitting is occasional and private, it may be considered mutual assistance between individuals.
• However, as soon as it becomes a regular, paid activity, it may be considered professional and must therefore meet the same legal requirements as a licensed boarding facility.

It is therefore important to check:

• whether the provider has the necessary permits,
• under what conditions your pet will be cared for,
• and whether legal standards are being met.

Important Note on Pet Sitting Through Online Platforms

Many individuals now offer paid pet-sitting services through online platforms. However, it is important to note that regularly taking in and caring for pets at home or at another location is legally considered a pet boarding facility in Luxembourg.

In this case, the activity:

• must be registered,
• requires compliance with applicable legal obligations,
• involves specific authorizations,
• as well as adequate training or qualifications,
• and compliance with administrative, social, and tax obligations.

However, many service providers are not always aware of this legal framework.

This caution applies not only to those offering these services but also to pet owners.

Using an unregulated, paid pet-sitting service may constitute an undeclared activity and may not provide all the expected guarantees regarding legality, oversight, and liability.

It is therefore recommended to verify that the service provider is properly registered and authorized to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

3. Relying on Friends and Family
 

Asking a friend, neighbor, or family member for help remains a simple and reassuring solution.

Advantages:

• a familiar environment for the pet,
• no administrative hassles in a strictly private setting,
• often low or no cost.
   

Why this distinction is important
 

It is essential to distinguish between:

• occasional private pet sitting,
• and regulated professional pet care.

Licensed facilities invest time and resources and adhere to strict requirements to ensure the safety and well-being of animals. Failing to mention these requirements can be misleading and put professionals operating legally at a disadvantage.

Our tips for choosing
 

Before entrusting your pet:

• opt for officially licensed facilities when seeking a professional service,
• ask questions about the care conditions,
• visit the premises if possible,
• verify the provider’s legal authorizations.

In summary

• Pet boarding services in Luxembourg are strictly regulated.
• Matching platforms may offer services that do not comply with the law if they operate without a license.
• The official list of licensed boarding facilities remains the most reliable source of information.
   

Taking the time to choose carefully ensures a stress-free vacation for you… and for your four-legged friend.