The Paw People

Look, we know how it goes. You have an exciting trip coming up, you’ve booked your pet sitter already, and now you’re swamped in the trip planning process. You’re making sure every detail is nailed down. We know it can be stressful! Consider this simple checklist to make sure that everything’s ready to go for your pet sitter while you’re away.

4 Ways to Prep Your Pet Sitter

1. Make sure there’s enough food (and water)
2. Leave your pet supplies out
3. List emergency contacts and vet
4. Leave instructions, even if they’re simple

Make sure there’s enough food (and water)

Food, water, treats, pills (and pill pockets!), oh my! The list goes on. Think of everything your pet consumes and plan out the day(s) you’ll be gone, making sure you have enough to last that amount of time. If your pooch drinks a special type of water, have enough on hand. Having well-stocked supplies is vital. Really cover your bases, here, because the last thing you want is to be short on meds or a specific flavor of your pet’s favorite treat while you’re gone.

Leave your pet supplies out

What’s the easiest way to ensure your pet sitter knows exactly where everything is? Leave it out in plain sight! When your pet sitter comes to visit you and meet your pet before your trip, show them where the big ol’ tub of dog food is, and where you’ll leave all of your pet’s supplies. The leash will be hanging by the front door, extra poop bags will be on the counter along with the treats and toys, etc. For easy access, try to organize these items! Trust us, it will help both your pet sitter and your pet.

List emergency contacts and vet

Who can your pet sitter call in case of an emergency? Be sure to have someone who would be available and nearby. You know how the old saying goes: Plan for the worst, hope for the best! Preparing for an emergency takes some stress away in the event an emergency actually does occur. It’s best to list where the closest 24-hour emergency vet is in addition to your normal vet. Better yet if they are one and the same! Consider how your pet sitter can contact you while you’re away. Are you going on a cruise? Then, provide the cruise ship’s number. Do you know you’ll be in a remote destination with no phone service? Then, let your pet sitter know so they’re not surprised when their messages and calls don’t go through.

Leave instructions, even if they’re simple

This avoids any misinterpretation or miscommunication. Best practice to help ensure flawless service is to leave your pet sitter with clear instructions. Even if it’s simply refilling the water and dishing out a scoop of food. Of course, we know care routines can have many more steps than that! If you have multiple furry friends with different routines, list out each one. Spell out home entry/exit instructions so your sitter has all information necessary to access your pet family.