Essential Contact Information
The first section should provide a clear communication path. List your mobile number and the best ways to reach you while you are away. Include your full travel itinerary, such as flight numbers and hotel details. It is also wise to list at least one
or two local emergency contacts—trusted friends or family members who can assist if you are unreachable. Provide their names, numbers, and their relationship to you and your pet. Finally, include the full address and contact information for your primary veterinarian.
Detailed Feeding Instructions
Consistency is crucial for a pet's well-being. Clearly outline your pet’s complete feeding schedule, including specific times for breakfast and dinner. Specify the exact type and brand of food they eat and precise portion sizes for each meal. Mention where the food is stored. Detail any rules regarding treats: what kind, how many, and when they are allowed. Crucially, list any food allergies or dietary restrictions. Create a list of 'forbidden' foods, including any human foods your pet should never be given, to avoid accidental mishaps.
Daily Routines and Exercise Needs
Pets thrive on routine, so maintaining their daily schedule helps reduce anxiety. Detail their walk schedule: when they go out, for how long, and their preferred routes. Explain their potty break habits and where they typically relieve themselves. Note their activity level and favorite forms of play, whether it's chasing a specific toy or a gentle game indoors. Also include any command words they respond to, especially for important actions like 'stay' or an emergency recall cue. If your pet has specific household habits, like being allowed on furniture or having a favorite nap spot, be sure to mention it.
Medical History and Medications
This section is non-negotiable for your pet's safety. If your pet takes any medications or supplements, list each one by name, the exact dosage, the time it should be given, and precise administration instructions (e.g., in a pill pocket, mixed with food). Also, note where the medications are kept. Include a brief summary of your pet's medical history, mentioning any chronic conditions, past surgeries, or known health issues. It's also helpful to include your pet's microchip information and the company it is registered with.
Emergency Permission and Vet Authorization
This is arguably the most critical part of your handover sheet. Provide the name and 24-hour contact number for a nearby veterinary emergency hospital. More importantly, include a signed and dated letter that explicitly gives your pet sitter permission to seek veterinary care on your behalf in an emergency. This document, often called a veterinary release form, prevents delays in treatment if the sitter cannot reach you. In the letter, you can specify a pre-approved spending limit for emergency care or state that you will assume all costs. Inform your vet's office ahead of time that a sitter will be caring for your pet.
Behavioral Quirks and Comforts
Every pet has a unique personality. Giving your sitter insight into their quirks can make the experience smoother for everyone. Note your pet's favorite toys or hiding places. Mention any fears or triggers, such as a fear of thunderstorms, the vacuum cleaner, or strangers at the door. Describe how they behave around other animals or people. Being honest about any behavioral issues, such as separation anxiety or a tendency to get into the trash, helps the sitter prepare and manage the situation effectively. These details foster a better bond between the sitter and your pet.
