ABOUT US
Caring for Pets & Homes Since 2005
About GoingAway
GoingAway is a trusted Pet & House Sitting Service based in East London, Makhanda, and Gqeberha. Established in 2005, we’ve proudly built a reputation for reliability, care, and exceptional service. We also have Mobile Pet Grooming only based in East London since 2017. At GoingAway your pets and homes are cared for by only the best, fully-vetted sitters. Each sitter undergoes police clearance, thorough reference checks, and comprehensive training — so you can enjoy complete peace of mind whilst you’re away.
We understand how important your pets and home are to you — that’s why we go the extra mile to ensure that your pets are comfortable, happy, and cared for in the familiar surroundings of their own home. Whether it’s feeding, walking, grooming, or vet visits, we handle it all — giving your pets the love and attention they deserve whilst ensuring your home remains safe and lived-in.
We also offer overnight or 24/7 house sitting, depending on your needs and your pets’ routines.
Before any booking, we’re happy to meet with you and your pets so that we can get to know each other and understand your requirements. We’re proud of our glowing reviews written by loyal returning clients — a testament to the trust we’ve built over the the years.
Whether you’re going away for a day or a month or a few months, GoingAway is here to make sure your pets and home are in the best hands.
We look forward to meeting you and your furry friends soon!
About Leanne & the Story Behind GoingAway
Leanne Burger, founder of GoingAway, has dedicated her career to the care and well-being of animals. With over two decades experience working with both domestic and wild animals, she brings deep expertise and passion to every aspect of the business.
Leanne began her professional journey in 2000 at The Lion Park in Johannesburg, where she was mentored through her first job by renowned conservationist Kevin Richardson (“The Lion Whisperer”). Her role involved caring for a wide range of species including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and giraffes — an experience that strengthened her lifelong commitment to animal welfare.
In 2005, Leanne established GoingAway in Cape Town, initially offering dog walking and pet feeding services. The business quickly expanded to include professional pet and house sitting, earning media attention in publications such as the Cape Argus.
After several years working at high-end game lodges such as Thornybush Lodge, Leanne returned to East London, where GoingAway was relaunched in 2010. Since then, it has grown into one of the most trusted pet and house sitting services in the Eastern Cape.
Leanne also spent two years working with the East London SPCA, further deepening her knowledge of animal behaviour and care standards.
Under her leadership, GoingAway has continued to expand, offering a reliable, professional, and compassionate service. Leanne personally selects and trains every sitter to ensure the highest level of trust, safety, and care for clients and pets.
“Whatever reasons for leaving your pets behind, we at GoingAway strive to make it as stress-free as possible. I’ve hand-picked my dream team to ensure that our clients can relax in knowing that their home and beloved animals are being well cared for. The only risk of booking with GoingAway is that of your pet sharing its heart with their sitter, and begging for them to come back!”
I thank the Lord every day for the work that comes to us and love of all animals I have in my heart.
Leanne Burger
Founder
GoingAway in the news & old some photos
