For many families, “pet sitting” means having a trusted pet sitter in your home while you are away. Staying in a familiar environment can help reduce stress and maintain normal routines, especially for cats and senior pets.
Before you leave, taking time to prepare a clear, detailed plan for your pet sitter will give you peace of mind and help your pet feel safe and secure in your absence.
Below is a guide for what to include on your checklist to help you get started.
1. Feeding Routine
Consistency matters when it comes to nutrition, so make sure your instructions are clear and specific.
Be sure to write down:
- Where to find your pet’s food
- Exact portion sizes
- Feeding times
- Instructions for treats and how often they are given
- Any foods that should be avoided
Make sure to include any specific dietary needs or medical nutrition requirements your pet may have.
2. Exercise and Enrichment
Physical and mental stimulation are essential for pets.
Include details on:
- Walking schedule, preferred routes, and duration
- Off-leash guidelines, if applicable
- Any reactivity, anxiety, or behavior concerns in public
- Favorite toys, games, or enrichment activities
Maintaining familiar routines helps prevent boredom, anxiety, and unwanted behaviors.
3. Medication and Supplements
If your pet takes medication, do not assume instructions are self-explanatory.
Provide:
- The name of each medication or supplement
- Exact dosage and timing
- How it is administered
- Any side effects to watch for
- What to do if a dose is missed
If appropriate, you may also authorize your pet sitter to request refills from your veterinary clinic.
4. Bathroom Instructions
Note clear expectations help prevent accidents and stress.
For dogs:
- Frequency of potty breaks
- Any signals your dog uses to indicate they need to go out
- Instructions for waste disposal
For cats:
- Litter box location
- Cleaning frequency, ideally at least once daily
- Type of litter used
- Any history of litter box issues
5. Household Habits and Preferences
Your pet’s comfort often depends on small daily routines.
Be specific about:
- Whether pets are allowed on furniture
- Crate use, if applicable
- Bedtime routines
- Areas of the home that are off-limits
- Known fears, anxieties, or triggers
- Favorite resting spots
The more your sitter understands your pet’s normal routine, the smoother the experience will be.
6. Emergency Contacts and Plan
Preparation is key in the unlikely event that something goes wrong.
Provide:
- Your contact information and travel itinerary
- A secondary emergency contact
- Clear instructions on how to proceed if your pet gets sick or injured
- Location of pet carriers and how to safely transport your pet
If you have a first-aid kit for your pet, show your sitter where it’s stored.
7. Veterinary Information
Make sure your pet sitter knows exactly where to go if medical care is needed.
Leave the following in an easy-to-find location:
- Your primary veterinarian’s name, address, phone number, and website
- The nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital
- Microchip information
- Pet insurance details, if applicable
- A recent photo of your pet
8. Household Essentials
Finally, ensure your sitter can comfortably manage your home.
Provide instructions for:
- WiFi access
- Alarm systems
- Cleaning supplies and paper towels
- Trash and waste disposal
These small details prevent unnecessary stress for both your sitter and your pet.
Before You Travel
We understand that pets are family. Whether you are traveling for a long-awaited vacation or a short spring getaway, preparing your pet sitter with clear instructions ensures your dog or cat receives thoughtful, consistent care in your absence.
If your pet is due for vaccinations, medication refills, or a wellness exam, schedule an appointment before your trip. Routine care helps prevent unexpected issues while you are away. If you would also like us to review your pet’s medical records before your trip or update anything prior to travel, our team is here to help.
📲Call or text us at 614-389-0997.
