Our dogs are our family so leaving them with someone is a big deal for us. We always get the same carer so we have built a relationship with her (and she has built one with our dogs). She texts us every day with an update so we don't need to worry and it is clear she truly loves dogs.

Didn't have an issue. The booking process and ease of use was first class, even at a late notice. Would definitely have our dogs cared for by Lonely Pets Club every time.

By far the best way to have your cats cared for while you are away. Price is cheaper than boarding, plus there's the added convenience of not having to rush around to drop off and pick up cats. Professional and friendly carers, who you get to meet, gives you added piece of mind. Cats are less stressed by being looked after in their own home - highly recommended.

Approximate cost: $21

After the first (and very last) time I put my cat into a cattery and seeing how much it distressed him on my return I was determined to find an alternative. I was so relieved to find that a service such as Lonely Pets existed. So the next time the opportunity arose, I didn't hesitate to call. I have used this service a couple of times now and I have always opened the door to find a happy and relaxed cat.

My carer is very friendly and obviously loves pets (and my cat) as much as I do. I receive MMS pics of my pet whilst away as well as regular text updates. I've recommended them to everyone I know and will continue to use them on an ongoing basis.

Cats less stressed because they stay at home, eat their regular food and they get some attention daily. Carer sent SMS in the first couple of days to let me know cats were well.

I have two cats and although my local "cat motel" is good, they both get stressed and lose a lot of weight when they stay there. With the Lonely Pets Club while they get a bit grumpy about the lack of attention, they are far less stressed because they stay at home, they eat their regular food, and they get at least a bit of daily attention. The minders are great - mine sends me a text in the first couple of days to let me know everything's OK.

The fact that they bring in your mail, water the plants, put out the bins, feed the fish etc as well is an added bonus. Honestly makes going away a whole lot easier.

For two cats it is also quite a bit cheaper than a "motel" (last time I used them - July 2008) it was $17 a day versus $25 for a motel).

I've always hated putting my dogs in kennels so it was great to find an alternative. I've used this company 5 times and have had 2 different staff looking after my babies (two dogs and a puss puss). Each time my pets were looking relaxed and healthy when I got back and I was particularly impressed that they cleaned up the backyard of doggie doo for me. Certainly better than the time I did have to use a kennel and one of my dogs got so stressed it chewed a hole in its arm.

I'm a big fan of Lonely Pets Club, the service is friendly and reliable and best of all I don't feel guilty when have to leave my pets behind when I go away any more.

The Lonely Pets Club offers holiday in-home care for pets, and dog walking services on an ongoing or ad hoc basis. Dog walking starts at $17/30 minutes. Prices for in home care start at about $20 for one or two animals, though public holiday rates apply and can boost the price quickly.

They will put out rubbish bins, bring in your mail, and water plants, and they do have an option to perform these services even if you are not fortunate enough to have a warm, furry friend.

The carers are very professional, but obviously all pretty mad about animals - which matters, when you are missing your little friends!

Approximate cost: $from $20/day