How to Prepare for a Pet Sitter
March 29, 2022
Once you’ve found a sitter you and your dog get along with, you can move onto the next — most important — part: preparing your home and your dog for your time away.
The time has finally come. You’re going on a vacation or a work trip and you’ll be separated from your four-legged best friend.
No one knows your dog like you do, and it can be stressful to think about leaving your loyal pup with someone new. Thankfully, there are several reputable websites and apps out there which do background checks on dog sitters, so you can find someone trustworthy to take care of your dog.
If you find a sitter you’re interested in, set up a time for them to come over and meet your dog to make sure it’s a good fit. Once you’ve found a sitter you and your dog get along with, you can move onto the next — most important — part: preparing your home and your dog for your time away.
Use the following checklist to help prepare your dog, your home, and your sitter for your time away.
Gather Important Information
Put together a folder with essential information for your dog sitter. This includes a pet care safety plan with emergency contacts, such as your veterinarian, the closest emergency pet hospital, and local police. In addition to important contact information, list what your sitter needs to know about your dog’s health, including…
- if they have a history of health concerns,
- the names and dosages of any medications they may be taking,
- pet insurance information,
- and immunization history.
Other important information to include is your pet’s microchip information, if applicable, their local government registration number, and a clear photo of your dog.
Stock Up on Supplies, and Make Sure they are Easy to Find
Make sure your dog has enough food, treats, medication, toys, toothpaste, poop bags… you get the idea. If you have a dog who makes messes, have cleaning products ready as well. Get the correct amount of anything your dog needs or uses on a regular basis for the duration of your trip. Once you’ve gathered all your supplies, let your pet sitter know where to find everything.
Write Detailed Instructions
Feel free to simply tell your pet sitter about your dog’s routine, but we recommend writing it down as well. Make detailed notes of your dog’s daily schedule, likes and dislikes, and so on. Here are a few things to include in your list:
- Daily routine. When your dog likes to go out to use the bathroom, when and where they like to go on walks or to play fetch, when they are expected to get in a crate or go to bed.
- Food and medicine intake. How much food and treats they get per day, when they eat dog food, dosages of medications and when they need to take medications.
- Likes and dislikes. What games does your dog like to play, or where to find their favorite toys; whether or not they like other dogs or get anxiety in large crowds.
Leave instructions for your home as well. Let your sitter know where to find a spare key if needed, or with a neighbor. Let your neighbors know you’ll have a pet sitter staying at your home, and introduce them if possible. Also let your pet sitter know things like how to use your TV, your heating/air conditioning, your wifi password, and if there are any rooms they shouldn’t go into or allow your dog to go into.
Prepare for Your Departure
Give your dog lots of love in the days before you leave. You may want to utilize that time to brush up on any obedience skills that have fallen by the wayside to help your dog be on his or her best behavior. Close off any areas of your home you don’t want your dog or sitter to enter, and make sure any potential hazards to your dog (weed killer, cleaning supplies, etc.) are put away safely. If you have a backyard, double check there are no holes in the fence your dog could escape through, or any other hazards.
Leaving your dog at home, especially if it’s for the first time, can be difficult. But if you prepare, both you and your dog will make it through. If your dog needs help being more obedient or comfortable with strangers, contact Dog Training Elite in Pittsburgh for a free in-home evaluation and training demonstration.
Get Your Free Consultation
You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!
About Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh
Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh. Our team of experienced trainers is passionate about helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting bonds. Learn about their backgrounds, expertise, and what drives them to deliver the highest level of training in the industry.
Reviews
Our testimonials showcase the success stories of dogs and their owners who have benefited from our training programs. From basic obedience to advanced service dog training, see how Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh has transformed the lives of countless dogs and their families!
FAQs
Our FAQs cover the most common inquiries about our training methods, programs, and what you can expect when working with Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh. If you’re curious about anything related to our services, this is where you will find the information you need.
Careers
Join the Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh family! If you’re passionate about dogs and interested in making a difference, explore career opportunities with us. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our commitment to excellence in dog training and customer service. Discover how you can grow with us and become a part of a team that truly cares about dogs and their owners.
Gallery
Our gallery features photos and videos of dogs in training, successful graduates, and highlights from community events. See what Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh can offer your dog and get a glimpse of the work we’re passionate about.
In the Community
At Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh, we’re proud to be an active part of the community we serve. Check out recent events in our area where we’ve had the privilege to participate in local events, support fellow small businesses, and promote responsible dog ownership.