Q: I am interested in home swapping but was wondering whether leaving animals like cats and chickens for our home exchange partners to look after was possible?

A: Many members are happy to look after pets for their home exchange partners as part of the exchange agreement. When you join the site there are tick box options for "Pet care required", "Pet care offered" and "Pets welcome". It really can be a perfect option for many members as it saves on pet care costs and it's nice to know that your pets are being looked after at home. 

Often members would find it a bonus to exchange with a home that has cats, and especially chickens if it means fresh eggs for breakfast! However, when in the early stages of discussing the possibility of an exchange, it is important to mention that pet care would be required as for some people, especially those with allergies, this would not be possible. Also, some exchange partners will want to spend a night or two away from your home and so won't want to be tied down by agreeing to look after pets (for many, this can be overcome by arranging back-up care, perhaps with a neighbour or friend who lives nearby, for any period when exchange partners will not be available).