The Core Four: Contacts and Vets
Before anything else, assemble your emergency contact information. This should be a clearly written list kept in an obvious place, like on the refrigerator. Include your own contact numbers and your travel itinerary. More importantly, list at least one
or two trusted local contacts who can make decisions if you are unreachable. Provide the name, address, and phone number for your regular veterinarian and the nearest 24/7 emergency vet clinic. It's also wise to call your vet's office beforehand to let them know you will be away and to authorize your pet sitter to seek care in an emergency. Some owners even leave a credit card on file or provide written consent for a specific spending limit on emergency care.
Feeding and Medication Schedules
Never assume a sitter will remember verbal instructions, especially if they care for multiple animals. Write down precise feeding details, including the brand of food, exact portion sizes, and feeding times. Note where the food and measuring scoops are located. Be specific about treats: what kind, how many, and how often they are allowed. If your pet has any food allergies or dietary restrictions, highlight this information clearly. For medications, instructions must be meticulous. List each medication, the dosage, the time it should be given, and the method of administration (e.g., in a pill pocket, crushed in food). Demonstrating how to give the medication before you leave can prevent confusion.
Daily Routines and Exercise Needs
Pets thrive on routine, and maintaining their schedule can significantly reduce their anxiety while you're away. Outline their typical day. When do they wake up? When do they need to go outside? Detail their walk schedule, including duration and typical route. Mention any on-leash habits, such as pulling or reacting to other dogs. Describe their playtime preferences, including their favorite toys and games they enjoy. It's equally important to note their downtime, such as their favorite napping spots or if they are crate-trained and for how long. This consistency helps keep your pet comfortable and their behavior predictable.
Personality, Quirks, and Fears
Every pet has a unique personality. Sharing these details helps the sitter understand and bond with your animal. Let the sitter know if your pet is shy around new people, craves constant affection, or prefers to be left alone. Note any behavioral triggers or fears, such as a terror of vacuum cleaners, thunderstorms, or the doorbell. Explain how your pet communicates their needs—do they scratch at the door to go out or sit by their bowl when hungry? Mentioning their favorite hiding spots is also crucial, especially for cats, so a sitter doesn't panic if they can't immediately find them.
Household Rules and Information
Your sitter is also a guest in your home, so clear instructions are helpful for them, too. Lay out the house rules regarding your pet. Are they allowed on the furniture? Are certain rooms off-limits? Make sure those off-limit doors are securely closed. Beyond pet rules, leave notes on household logistics. Provide the Wi-Fi password, instructions for the thermostat, and information on trash and recycling days. Show the sitter where you keep cleaning supplies for any pet-related messes, as well as extra paper towels, waste bags, and pet food. Having everything in one easy-to-find location prevents a frantic search later.
