Set Your Sitter Up for Success
A good pet sitting experience starts before the sitter ever walks through the door. The more organized and prepared you are, the less stressful the experience will be for your pet, your sitter, and you. Most of this takes less than 30 minutes and pays off enormously.
Create a Written Care Guide
Even if you have discussed everything verbally, put it in writing. Your care guide should include:
- Feeding schedule: What food, how much, what time, and where the food is stored. Note any foods your pet should never eat.
- Medication instructions: Dosage, timing, how to administer, and where medications are kept.
- Walking routine: How often, how long, preferred routes, and any areas to avoid.
- Behavioral notes: Does your dog bark at the mail carrier? Does your cat hide under the bed for the first hour? These details prevent confusion.
- House rules: Is the dog allowed on the couch? Can the cat go outside? Be explicit about boundaries.
Gather Supplies in One Place
Do not make your sitter hunt for things. Before you leave, set out:
- Enough food for the entire stay plus a few extra days
- Treats and any supplements
- Leashes, harnesses, and waste bags
- Cleaning supplies for accidents
- A spare set of keys
Share Emergency Information
Leave a printed or digital sheet with:
- Your vet's name, address, and phone number
- The nearest 24-hour emergency vet clinic
- Your personal phone number and an alternate contact
- Your pet's insurance information, if applicable
- Authorization for emergency veterinary care
Pet-Proof Before You Go
Walk through your home with fresh eyes. Secure trash cans, close off rooms that are off-limits, put away anything toxic or fragile, and make sure windows and gates are latched. If your pet is a chewer, remove shoes and charging cables from accessible areas.
Do a Practice Run
If possible, have the sitter come over while you are still home. Let them follow the routine with you present so they can ask questions in real time. This also gives your pet a chance to associate the sitter with your calm, reassuring presence.
Written by HeyDog Team
Practical pet care advice from the team behind HeyDog.