Doggie daycare

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose. How does it work?

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. Housesitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets.

Trustpilot Testimonials ­ 4.9 / 5 Excellent 10 out of 10 for housesitmatch.com

I have had nothing but good and helpful service from the people who run this site, and my experience has been excellent. Tristram Cosgrave ­ Dog and cat owner, Malaga

How do you join?

Please register online via our website www.Housesitmatch.com.

Do you need a house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either house-sitter or home owner with a 50% discount using coupon code 20EWN – an exclusive offer for readers. To find a house or pet-sitter go to www.Housesitmatch.com.

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DOG playschools are taking off in a big way in Spain.

Owners leave their pets at a centre one day a week when they are away at work, always on the same day so that the dogs form a strong group and get to know each other well.

The centres are a hive of canine activity, with the small groups of animals chasing each other, running up and down stairs and jumping on and off the sofas and cushions.

Dogs are usually separated by size and character, and the service also includes outside walks and periods of rest.

Owners and trainers say that a care option, which can cost up to €350 a month for full days or €220 for half days, pro ­