Beyond 'Feed Him Twice a Day'
The single biggest mistake pet owners make is leaving vague instructions. A note that says, “Feed Max in the morning and at night,” might seem sufficient, but it opens the door to confusion and potential mishaps. A pet sitter, who may be looking after
multiple animals, needs specifics to provide the best care. Ambiguity can lead to overfeeding, underfeeding, or dietary slip-ups that can upset your pet's stomach, especially when they are already experiencing the stress of your absence. Pets thrive on consistency, and a detailed routine is a form of comfort. Taking the time to make clear decisions about their diet beforehand and writing them down ensures their routine is maintained, minimising anxiety for everyone involved.
The Anatomy of Perfect Feeding Instructions
To eliminate guesswork, your instructions should be a precise blueprint for your pet's meals. Start with the basics: specify the exact brand and type of food (e.g., “Royal Canin Adult Kibble” or “home-cooked chicken and rice”). Next, detail the exact quantity per meal. Use standard measurements like “1/2 cup” or “150 grams,” not just “one scoop.” It's also helpful to pre-portion meals into labelled bags for each day. Clearly state the feeding times, such as “8:00 AM” and “7:00 PM,” rather than just “morning” and “evening.” Finally, describe where the food, bowls, and any necessary utensils are stored to prevent a frantic search through your kitchen cabinets.
The Rules Around Treats and Human Food
Treats are an important part of your pet's day, but the rules need to be clear. Specify what kind of treats are allowed, how many they can have per day, and for what reasons (e.g., “one dental stick after their evening walk”). This is also the section to list strictly forbidden foods. This is especially crucial in India, where many common household ingredients are toxic to pets. Emphasise that foods containing onion, garlic, heavy spices, and excessive salt or sugar — staples in many Indian gravies and snacks — are dangerous. Other items like chocolate, grapes, raisins, and the sweetener xylitol are highly toxic and can cause severe health issues, from anaemia to kidney failure. A clear “Do Not Feed” list protects your pet from well-meaning but harmful indulgence.
Water, Medication, and Special Needs
Hydration is as important as food. Note where the water bowl is, how often it should be cleaned and refilled, and if your pet prefers a specific type of water. If your pet requires medication, the instructions must be flawless. List the name of the medicine, the exact dosage, the time it needs to be given, and the method of administration (e.g., “crushed in their wet food” or “hidden in a pill pocket”). This section should also cover any allergies, food sensitivities, or chronic conditions your pet has. Describing the signs of a potential problem related to their condition gives your sitter the information they need to act quickly if something seems amiss.
Contingency Plans: The 'What Ifs'
A great handover sheet also prepares for the unexpected. What should the sitter do if your pet refuses to eat? It's common for pets to have a decreased appetite due to the stress of their owner's absence. You can provide approved “tricks” to entice them, such as adding a small amount of warm water or a spoonful of plain curd to their kibble. It's crucial to define when a missed meal becomes a concern. A good rule of thumb is to instruct the sitter to contact you or a designated emergency contact if the pet hasn't eaten in 24 hours, or if they show other symptoms like lethargy or vomiting. Always include the contact information for your primary veterinarian and the nearest 24-hour emergency animal hospital.
