AIBU regarding our petsitter

[Givenup2026]

We've had two decent pet sitters before, but they eventually bailed on us, so we had to look for another one. They’re decent enough, no issues in our return, but it turns out that the bed we gave them was too small for them (single bed) which we understand TBH, however the only other option is for them to sleep in our bed.

The main problem is that obviously is a bit short notice to find an alternative (or find another way to fix their problem).

So although we understand we’re also a bit miffed. So AIBU to feel this way?

It's not ideal but its the situation so you just have to deal with it. You want your petsitter to be comfortable. Longer term, you can look for other solutions (would a small double fit) (or a petsitter who fits in a single bed).

I don't understand. You had a petsitter who slept in your bed because the bed you provided was inadequate? And had the courtesy to tell you that they had to do that? What's the problem?
Would you rather they'd slept on the floor or sofa and had a shit time?

What did you agree on before the sitting?

You must have told them what was possible sleeping arrangements and they could accept or not?

Unfortunately all our rooms are the size of shoe boxes (apart from ours) - I think there’s maybe 40cm between the bed and the window (and bed is flushed all the way to the wall).

the only practical solution (apart from finding someone else) would be to get a double sofa bed.

This is for the upcoming stay. They didn’t mention anything the first time they stayed over.

I get what your saying but when you go away you sleep in beds that have been host to countless individuals. I'd get a mattress topper while they are staying although I'm at a bit of a loss to imagine how big someone would need to be to not fit a single bed.

Why can’t they sleep in your bed?

I find it too private/intimate… Plis not being funny my bed is covered in bed stains thanks to my period blood!

Then say no thank you to have them sitting or find a way to adjust the sleeping arrangement.

Are they paid or doing it for accommodation?

They’re being paid so it’s not a favour.

Honestly, just get a mattress topper, you are creating a bigger problem out of something that has an obvious solution.

You are free to say no thank and hire someone else.

I know I’m free, but it’s unlikely I’d find someone who has availability with this short notice.

Then arrange a sofa bed or a mattress topper?

Yes, but that doesn’t solve it’s a “private space” to me. And we wouldn’t find a sofa bed that goes with the living room that can also be delivered with such short notice.

so our only alternative (as much as we understand) is accept something that makes me uncomfortable.

Book an animal kennel if you don't like people in your home.

Plis not being funny my bed is covered in bed stains thanks to my period blood!

Get a mattress protector (cotton, waterproof). The petsitter won't be looking underneath that.

What do you want if a single bed is too small to accommodate the petsitter?

If you cant get over the "private space" and equally cant provide appropriate bed space for somebody who you expect to stay overnight to provide a service then cancel and stay home until you find an alternative.

Well have they actually refused to come? Do you intend to lock your bedroom door? I wouldn’t love someone in my bed but wouldn’t love a random person in my house without me either so struggling to see why this is a red line. But if it is then you’ll have to find another solution.

For goodness sakes who buys a new bed or sofa bed for a pet sitter? And I don’t see how a mattress topper would help. What exactly is the issue? Are they too tall? I mean frankly pet sitters get a bed, and they should explain well beforehand if they have special requests.
Next time try trusted housesitters.com. You don’t pay them.
In this case say that at this late stage there’s nothing you can do, the bed is the bed. And no I would not want anyone sleeping in my bed either!

so our only alternative (as much as we understand) is accept something that makes me uncomfortable

Correct.

But considering you have vetoed all other options, what do you want to do about it?

Too tall / wide. Think of a big rugby player type.

believe me I get why the room/bed could be perceived as “too small”.

and no I dont have an issue with a person staying in my house, not just my bed/bedroom!

YANBU. I use kennels because I don't want strangers in my house. Although I appreciate you may not have time to find alternative arrangements now.

Well there’s not a lot I can do but accept that I’ll be uncomfortable!

Ok, so job done.