How to Prepare for Your Pet Sitter

How to Prepare for Your Pet Sitter

Leaving your pet at home while you’re away can be stressful for both you and your furry friend. Hiring a professional pet sitter is an excellent way to ensure your pet is well-cared for in your absence. However, to make the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible, it’s important to prepare your home appropriately for the pet sitter. In this blog post, we’ll walk through the essential steps to get your home ready, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for your pet and a hassle-free time for your sitter.

1. Provide Detailed Instructions

Clear Guidelines:

Write down detailed instructions regarding your pet’s daily routine, including feeding times, portions, medication instructions, favorite activities, and any specific quirks or behaviors the sitter should be aware of. Most professional pet sitters have some type of scheduling software. Make sure all your information is up to date, including your pet’s care instructions.

Emergency Information:

Leave contact details for your veterinarian, along with emergency contacts and any important medical history or requirements for your pet. Your personal emergency contact should have a way to access your home and know how to care for your pets in case of an emergency.

2. Stock Up on Supplies

Sufficient Food and Medication:

Ensure there’s enough pet food, treats, and any necessary medications for the duration of your absence, plus a little extra in case of unexpected delays.

Access to Essentials:

Leave out all necessary items like leashes, litter, cleaning supplies, and grooming tools in an easily accessible location. Leave towels out in case your sitter needs to dry off your dog after a rainy outing.

3. Create a Comfortable Environment

Familiar Spaces:

Set up a comfortable, familiar area for your pet with their bed, toys, and any items that help them feel secure.

Safe Spaces:

If there are areas of the house that are off-limits to your pet, make sure these are securely closed off and communicate this clearly to your sitter.

4. Prepare for Emergencies

Safety Precautions:

Check that all windows, doors, and fences are secure to prevent any escape attempts by your pet. Your professional pet sitter should also check to ensure gates are closed and your house is secure at each visit.

Provide Access to Your Home:

If your sitter doesn’t already have one, arrange to provide them with keys or another way to access your home. Test it to ensure keys work properly. Most professional pet sitters will require either multiple keys or a lock box located in a secure location at your home.

5. Make Communication Easy

Contact Information:

Leave your contact details and itinerary for your pet sitter, so they can reach you in case of any queries or updates. Again, most professional pet sitters have scheduling software, making communication easy.

Wi-Fi Access:

It is important to provide your pet sitter with Wi-Fi access, especially if cell service is unreliable in your area. You want to make sure your sitter can reach you if needed.

6. Last-Minute Checks

Walk-Through:

If possible, do a walk-through with your sitter before you leave to point out where everything is located and discuss any last-minute details. A professional pet sitter will require a consultation before your trip to ensure all details are covered.

Relaxation Tips:

Share any tips or tricks that help calm your pet, such as favorite toys, routines, or treats. The more information you can provide about your pet’s behavior, the better it will be for your pet during your absence. Need some tips? Check out our blog here for some ideas.

Conclusion

Preparing your home for a professional pet sitter is crucial in ensuring a smooth experience for both your pet and the sitter. By providing detailed instructions, stocking up on supplies, and creating a comfortable environment, you can leave your home knowing that your beloved pet is in good hands. Remember, the more information and preparation you provide, the easier it will be for your pet sitter to provide the best possible care for your beloved family member.