The Foundation: Feeding Instructions
The most critical information for any pet sitter revolves around food. Start your instruction sheet here to ensure there's no confusion. Be incredibly specific. List the exact type and brand of food your pet eats. Detail the precise portion size for each
meal and the specific times they are fed. If you have multiple pets, create separate, clearly labelled instructions for each to avoid mix-ups. Note where the food is stored and include information on treats—what kind, how many, and how often they are allowed. Equally important is a list of what your pet should not eat, including any known allergies or sensitivities. Mentioning foods that have caused tummy troubles in the past can prevent a lot of stress for both the sitter and your pet.
Daily Life: Routines and Exercise
Animals are creatures of habit, and maintaining their routine reduces anxiety while you're away. After feeding, outline your pet's daily schedule. For dogs, this means walk times, duration, and typical routes. Note their leash etiquette—do they pull, are they reactive to other dogs, or are they nervous around traffic? For all pets, describe their playtime habits. What are their favourite toys? Do they prefer a morning game of fetch or an evening laser pointer session? Also include potty break schedules and specific habits, like where they go in the yard or instructions for cleaning the litter box. The goal is to help the sitter mimic a normal day as closely as possible.
Health and Emergencies
This section is non-negotiable and should be clear and easy to find. Provide the name, address, and phone number of your regular veterinarian. Also, include the contact details for a 24-hour emergency vet clinic. Before you leave, it's wise to call your vet's office to let them know you'll be away and to authorize the sitter to make decisions in an emergency. List any medications your pet takes, including the name, dosage, time, and method of administration (e.g., hidden in a treat, mixed with food). Mention any existing medical conditions, allergies, or past health issues. Having all this information in one place empowers your sitter to act quickly and confidently if an issue arises.
Personality, Quirks, and Comfort
Every pet has a unique personality. Sharing these details helps the sitter understand their behaviour and provide better care. Does your dog bark at the mail carrier but is otherwise quiet? Is your cat scared of the vacuum cleaner? Note these behavioural triggers. It's especially helpful to list favourite hiding spots, particularly for cats, so the sitter doesn't panic if they can't find them. Mention what calms your pet down, like a specific blanket, a favourite toy, or simply listening to music. These small details about their likes and dislikes can make a huge difference in keeping your pet feeling secure and understood.
Household Information and Contacts
Finally, provide practical information about your home. Show the sitter where essential supplies are kept, such as extra food, leashes, toys, cleaning supplies, and trash bags. Point out any off-limit areas for the pet. Your contact information should be listed clearly at the top. In addition, provide the number of a trusted neighbour or nearby family member who can help in an emergency if you are unreachable. This backup contact is crucial for true peace of mind. A quick walkthrough with the sitter before you leave can also help ensure they know where everything is and how things work.
