- Schedules are important. Make reservations for a pet sitter as far in advance as possible and remember to call the sitter if you are coming home later or earlier than expected. This will allow the pet sitter to plan for extra visits.
- Advise your veterinarian that a pet sitter will be caring for your pet(s) and authorize the vet to extend medical care during your absence if it becomes necessary.
- Make sure the pet sitter has a telephone number where you can be reached, including cell phone numbers. Also provide an email address if that is the best way to reach you.
- Provide the pet sitter with a house key in addition to garage door openers if inside visits are requested. (During power failures, garage door openers may not work). If you have a new key made, please try it out to be sure it works. Include instructions for operations of security systems.
- Have everything necessary to care for your pet in one general area. This includes: food, treats, utensils, food and water bowls, medications, leash, can opener, toys, paper towels, cleaning supplies, garbage bags, broom/dustpan or vacuum cleaner, towels (for rainy day walks), watering can for plants (if needed).
- Provide extra food and supplies just in case you are not able to return if anticipated.
- For the comfort of your pet(s), adjust your thermostat before leaving on a trip. A closed-up home can get dangerously hot in a short time. Also consider leaving an item of clothing you’ve recently worn where your pet sleeps to provide a “security blanket” for them.
- Leave a list of phone numbers in the event the sitter needs to call any of the following while you are away: cleaning service, plumber, electrician, gardener/yard maintenance, emergency contact, veterinarian office.
- Show the pet sitter where the fuse box or circuit breaker is located.
- Tell the pet sitter if bathrooms or any other household areas are off limits to pets and/or sitters. Secure access to these areas before leaving home.
(Content provided by: Pet Sitters International Inc.)
