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 

• Give them your sitter’s info.

• Confirm their payment policies for routine, urgent, and emergency care.

• Provide payment card info, or leave it in a sealed envelope if payment is due at the time of service and you may be unreachable.

• Verify current vaccinations.

Stock Up

• Pet supplies: Food, treats, medications, supplements, bowls, toys, grooming accessories, 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: Sturdy leash, harness, safety vest, treats, weather-appropriate gear, potty bags, and dog towels.

Time To Pet Account Updates

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

• Any changes to food, treat, and medication routines.

• 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 and storage areas such as the garage and basement.

• Close toilet lids.

• Lock up medications.

• Put dangerous and toxic items out of reach, including grapes, chocolate, food containing xylitol, popcorn kernels, and certain plants.

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

• Protect personal items and home furnishings, and have chew toys if your pet is prone to chewing or is teething.

Home Security And Safety

• Use a lockbox for backup.

• Replace batteries in door locks, garage remotes, and smoke/fire/CO2 detectors.

• Check fire extinguishers.

• Tell us of anyone expected to be at or entering your home.

• Set interior lights to turn on at dusk and off at bedtime.

• Use motion sensors outside.

• Let neighbors and 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 You Leave

• Check collars for current ID and vaccination tags.

• Adjust your thermostat.

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

• Lock all windows and doors, including the garage, basement, bulkhead, and sliding glass doors.

• In winter, leave a shovel and ice melt or sand anywhere your pet or sitter may need to access, such as the front walkway or back deck.

  Pet Sitters International, Inc. version ©2011-2021, adapted by Hollis Area Pet Sitters, LLC, v20260908