When you hear “pet sitter,” do you immediately picture a dog walker with a bundle of leads or someone scooping a litter box? Fair enough—that’s what most people think. But here’s the thing: North Dublin isn’t just a place for cats and dogs. There are entire flocks, burrows, and cages full of other pets with big personalities and unique needs.
I’m talking about birds that sing your favourite song back to you, rabbits that do joyful zoomies across your living room, and hamsters who can stash half a carrot in their cheeks. These smaller animals often get less attention in conversations about pet care—but they deserve just as much love and proper looking after.
At Pet Angel Sitters, we believe they’re just as important as any dog or cat. So let’s shine a light on the wonderful world of small pets, and why professional care can make a huge difference for them—and for you.
Small Pets Aren’t Always “Low Maintenance”
People sometimes think small pets are easy. You feed them, clean their cage, and that’s it. Right? Well… not quite.
Take birds, for example. They’re smart as whips and sensitive to changes in their routine. A budgie or cockatiel might be fine while you’re at work, but leave them alone for a few days and they can become anxious or even ill. They need social time, entertainment, and someone who knows how to spot subtle signs of stress.
Then there are rabbits. If you’ve ever shared your home with a bunny, you know they’re not just “quiet little pets.” They need plenty of space to stretch out, a diet full of hay and fresh greens, and gentle handling. Rabbits can be startled easily. A loud noise, an unfamiliar smell, or even the sight of a stranger can spook them.
And don’t even get me started on hamsters. These tiny creatures might only weigh a few ounces, but they’re full of energy—and they’re nocturnal! A hamster might be sound asleep when your sitter arrives, or zooming around their cage at midnight. And they’re escape artists if cages aren’t latched properly.
Small pets are individuals. Each one has quirks and preferences. Some birds love music, while others prefer silence. Some rabbits want endless head scratches, while others are more reserved. It’s our job to learn those details—and respect them.
Why Professional Small Pet Sitting Matters
So why hire a professional pet sitter for a bird, bunny, or hamster? Can’t a neighbour just pop in?
Sure, a neighbour might be willing—but will they know that your rabbit shouldn’t have iceberg lettuce? Or notice if your bird’s droppings look unusual? Or clean out a hamster’s bedding safely without accidentally leaving the cage open?
Small pets often hide signs of illness until it’s serious. An experienced sitter knows what to look for. They’re also patient, gentle, and understand how to handle delicate creatures without causing stress.
At Pet Angel Sitters, our team is Garda-vetted and trained for all kinds of pets. We don’t just feed them and leave—we interact, observe, and send you updates so you’re not worrying while you’re away.
What Our Small Pet Visits Look Like
Every visit is different, depending on the pet. But here’s a peek into how we care for smaller animals:
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Birds: We refresh food and water, chat with them (yes, many birds love a good conversation!), check cage safety, and clean as needed. We also watch for signs of plucking, respiratory issues, or changes in behaviour.
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Rabbits: We top up hay, check water bottles, clean litter trays, and let rabbits out for supervised time if it’s safe to do so. And of course, we give gentle scratches or sit nearby if they’re shy.
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Hamsters: We carefully clean cages, change water, and make sure exercise wheels and toys are in good shape. We’re cautious with handling because hamsters can be lightning fast—and surprisingly strong for their size!
One thing all these visits have in common? We send photo updates. It’s one of the best parts of our job—capturing your bird mid-song or your rabbit mid-binky and sending that joy straight to your phone.
Holidays, Emergencies, and Peace of Mind
People often get caught out by how quickly holidays approach. Suddenly it’s Christmas, or Easter, or a summer holiday, and you realise your small pet can’t just fend for themselves for a few days. And many boarding places don’t even accept small animals.
We offer flexible scheduling for holiday seasons and emergency visits. Our team has a backup system so if one sitter is sick or stuck in traffic, someone else steps in. No pet ever gets left out—that’s our promise.
Even if you’re just away overnight, small pets do better with company. They’re used to the rhythms of your household—the sounds, smells, and routines. A daily visit helps maintain that comfort, keeping your pet relaxed and healthy.
The Benefits for You and Your Pets
Hiring a professional pet sitter for small pets isn’t just about the animals. It’s about your peace of mind. You can enjoy your time away without worrying if your rabbit has fresh water or if your bird’s cage door was left open.
Plus, there’s the emotional comfort of knowing your pets are getting genuine care. Many of our clients say it feels like leaving their animals with family—and that’s the biggest compliment we could ask for.
Let’s Give Small Pets the Love They Deserve
Birds, rabbits, hamsters—they’re small but mighty. They’re also full of personality, and they deserve pet care that treats them as individuals.
If you live in North Dublin and share your home with a smaller pet, we’d love to meet them. Whether you’re heading off for a weekend, planning a longer holiday, or just need a helping hand, Pet Angel Sitters is here for you.
Curious to learn more? Drop us a message, or book a free meet-and-greet. We’d be delighted to chat about your feathered, furry, or whiskered friend.
Because small pets deserve big love—and expert care.
