Preparing for Your Pet Sitter

Check off the applicable items before you take off, and enjoy your time away knowing your home and pet or pets are in good hands! 

Check In With Your Veterinarian 

• Let them know we’ll be pet-sitting for you: 

        Hollis Area Pet Sitters 

        (603) 541-4277                             

• Confirm their payment policy in case routine, urgent, or emergency care is needed. 

• If payment is due at the time of service and you may be out of reach, either provide your vet with payment card info in advance or leave it in a sealed envelope for us.

• Verify current vaccinations.

Stock Up 

• Pet supplies: Food, treats, medication, supplements, bowls, toys, grooming accessories, utensils, a can opener, litter, scoop, disposal bags, pet wipes, and potty pads.

• Cleaning supplies: Kitchen hand soap, paper towels, floor and countertop cleaners, garbage bags, and Swiffer refills.  

• Dog-walking stations: Sturdy leash, harness, safety vest, weather-appropriate gear, potty bags, dog towels, and treats.

Time To Pet Account Updates

• Location of all supplies, including pet carriers, broom, dustpan, vacuum, and a mop. 

• Food, treat, and medication routines that have changed.

• New or unusual behavior (e.g., destructive when alone, changes in bathroom or eating habits, hiding spots).

• New favorite toy or activity.

• Recent injuries or illnesses.

Pet Proof Your Home 

• Secure cupboards, the garage, basement, and other storage areas.  

• Close toilet lids. 

• Lock up medications. 

• Keep dangerous items out of reach. Many foods and household products can be harmful or even toxic to pets (grapes, chocolate, xylitol, popcorn kernels, certain plants, and more). 

• Place hobby supplies out of reach (paints, glue, beads, needles, thread, and more).

• If your pet is prone to chewing or is teething, please leave chew toys out and take precautions to protect your personal items and home furnishings.

Home Security And Safety 

• Use a lockbox as a backup access method.

• Let us know if you expect anyone to be on your premises or entering your home during your reservation.

• Use interior light timers, and set them to turn on at dusk and off at bedtime. 

• Use motion sensors outside. 

• Let your neighbors and gate security know you’ve hired a pet sitter.

• Ensure fences are in good repair and gates are locked. 

• Hire a snow removal company in advance.

 Before Leaving Home

• Check collars for current ID and vaccination tags.

• Adjust your thermostat. 

• Close doors to rooms your pet won’t need to access.

• Ensure all windows and doors are locked (don’t forget the garage, basement, bulkhead, and sliding glass doors). 

• In winter, please place a shovel and ice melt in an easily accessible location for areas your pet or sitter may need to use, such as the front walkway or back deck. 

  Pet Sitters International, Inc. version ©2011-2021, adapted by Hollis Area Pet Sitters, LLC, v20260823