Funchal has a small but functional pet-sitting market dominated by the international platforms (PetBacker, Pawshake, TrustedHousesitters, DogPack) plus a handful of local independents. Last-minute availability is tight on the island, especially in peak summer and Christmas; book at least a week ahead for a vetted sitter.
Largest network of vetted dog walkers, sitters and boarders in Funchal, with insurance, 24/7 support and in-app payment. Approximately a dozen active local sitters list reliably in Funchal.
💡 Filter for "verified" + 4.5★+ ratings only, the unfiltered Funchal list includes recently-onboarded sitters with no reviews yet.
Brussels-based marketplace with strong European coverage. Pawshake's Madeira pool is smaller than PetBacker but the trust-and-safety vetting is widely considered stricter and the in-app messaging more reactive.
💡 Book the introductory meet-and-greet on day 1 of your stay, Pawshake makes it free and you can switch sitter risk-free if there is no good match.
Subscription-based mutual housesitting platform. Around 20 verified sitters cover the Madeira region, most willing to sit a full week or more without per-night fees in exchange for free accommodation.
💡 Post the sit at least 6 weeks ahead, Madeira is a popular destination for retired British and Dutch sitters who book early.
Our top-rated pet-friendly hotels, handpicked and verified.
Three House Hotel
★★★★ · 9.3/10
€190/night
Casa Velha do Palheiro Relais & Châteaux
★★★★★ · 9.2/10
€420/night
Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira
★★★★★ · 9/10
€520/night