The Non-Negotiable: Contact Information
This is the foundation of your handover sheet. At the top of the page, clearly list your own contact numbers. Include where you’ll be staying and if you anticipate being in areas with limited service. Just as important is a list of backup emergency contacts—trusted
friends or family who can act on your behalf if you are unreachable. Provide their names, numbers, and relationship to you.
Veterinary Details and Emergency Authorization
An emergency is the worst-case scenario, and being prepared is critical. Provide your primary veterinarian's name, clinic address, and phone number. Note their hours and include the name and number of the nearest 24-hour emergency vet hospital. Crucially, you must include a signed veterinary release form. This document gives the sitter permission to seek medical care for your pet. Many vets offer these forms, which can authorize treatment up to a certain cost or grant the sitter permission to make decisions if you cannot be reached. Without this, a vet may be unable to provide anything beyond basic life-saving care.
A Guide to Feeding and Medication
Never assume a sitter will remember verbal instructions. Write everything down with extreme clarity. Detail the type of food your pet eats, exact portion sizes, and feeding times. If you have multiple pets, label the food bins to avoid mix-ups. Be specific about treats: what kind, how many, and when they are allowed. It is vital to list any food allergies or forbidden human foods. For medications, provide the drug name, dosage, time of administration, and method—such as whether a pill should be hidden in a treat. This precision prevents over- or under-feeding and ensures medical routines are followed perfectly.
Daily Routines and Behavioural Quirks
Pets thrive on routine, and maintaining it can reduce their anxiety while you're away. Outline their typical day, including wake-up times, walk schedules, and bedtime. Does your dog expect a 20-minute walk after breakfast? Does your cat have a favourite time for play? Note these details. Also, include behavioural insights. Mention your pet’s favorite hiding spots, especially for cats. List any fears, like vacuums or thunderstorms, and explain what helps calm them. Note any funny habits or personality quirks that make your pet unique. This information helps the sitter understand your pet’s behaviour, not just manage their basic needs.
House Rules and Home Information
Your sitter is also looking after your home, so provide clear instructions for that as well. Specify any areas that are off-limits to the pet, like certain furniture or rooms. Leave notes on household basics, such as the Wi-Fi password, how to work the television remote, and trash and recycling collection days. It’s also wise to point out the location of cleaning supplies for any pet-related messes. If you have a security system, leave clear instructions on how to arm and disarm it. A few simple house notes can prevent a lot of confused texts and calls.
