Rover vs. Professional Pet Sitting in Burbank: Why I Built Burbank Pet Sitting

Kenzie Bond, Founder/Owner of Burbank Pet Sitting LLC

Why I Started on Rover—and Why I Built Burbank Pet Sitting Instead

As the owner of Burbank Pet Sitting LLC, I am often asked whether pet care apps like Rover or Wag are a good option. I can answer that question honestly from personal experience—because I started my pet sitting journey on Rover before building my own local pet care business.

Working on the platform gave me valuable insight into how app-based pet care operates. Over time, it also confirmed something important: while apps may be convenient, they are not the best solution for pet owners seeking consistent, safe, and personalized care.

What Starting on Rover Taught Me

Rover introduced me to many wonderful pets and pet owners. However, it also highlighted the limitations of a gig-based model built around speed and volume rather than relationships.

Sitters are interchangeable. Pets are treated like booking slots. Continuity is rarely guaranteed, and accountability is limited. Even experienced caregivers are constrained by a system that prioritizes availability over quality.

That reality ultimately led me to create something different.

Consistency Matters More Than Convenience

Pets thrive on familiarity. Yet many app-based services rotate caregivers frequently, which can increase stress—particularly for senior pets, puppies, anxious animals, or those with medical or behavioral needs.

At Burbank Pet Sitting, consistency is a core value. Clients know exactly who is coming into their home. Pets see familiar faces, follow stable routines, and receive care tailored to their individual needs—not a standardized checklist.

Investing in the Burbank Community

I also wanted to build a business that reinvests directly in the community I live and work in. Burbank Pet Sitting hires sitters and support staff from the local Burbank area. These are trained, vetted team members—not anonymous contractors cycling through an app. Creating local jobs is one of the most meaningful ways I can contribute to the strength of our community.

In addition, I actively support other local businesses by referring clients to trusted Burbank veterinarians, groomers, trainers, and pet retailers. Unlike national platforms, our business model is rooted in keeping resources and relationships local.

Professional Experience You Can Trust

With over 22 years of pet care experience and certification in Pet CPR and First Aid, I understand that pet sitting is not just about access—it is about judgment, safety, and responsibility.

Those skills are developed through experience and training, not through algorithms or apps.

Why I Founded Burbank Pet Sitting

Starting on Rover clarified the kind of business I did not want to run. Burbank Pet Sitting was built intentionally—to offer a professional, relationship-driven alternative that prioritizes pets, clients, and community.

When you choose a local, insured pet sitting company, you gain:

• Consistent, professional care

• Direct communication and accountability

• Personalized service based on your pet’s needs

• Support for local jobs and Burbank businesses

  
  

A Final Thought

Your pet’s safety and wellbeing deserve more than transactional care. My experience with Rover helped me see the gaps—and inspired me to build something better.

If you are looking for reliable, community-focused pet care in Burbank, I would be honored to work with you.