Leaving your furry (or feathered, or scaly!) friend in someone else’s care can be stressful—but a clear, thorough set of pet care instructions can make all the difference. Whether you’re going away for the weekend or taking a longer vacation, preparing your pet sitter with everything they need ensures your pet stays healthy, happy, and safe.
Here’s a checklist of what to include in your pet care instructions:
1. Basic Information About Your Pet
Start with the essentials:
- Name and breed/species
- Age
- Gender
- Personality traits (e.g., shy, aggressive with other dogs, scared of thunder)
- Medical conditions or allergies
- Microchip/ID tag info
This gives your sitter an overview of your pet’s needs and temperament.
2. Feeding Instructions
Be detailed and specific:
- What food to give and how much
- Feeding times
- Treats (if allowed) and any restrictions
- Where food and bowls are stored
- Instructions for special diets or medications given with food
A feeding routine helps your pet feel secure—and helps avoid upset stomachs.
3. Exercise and Playtime
Include:
- How often and how long your pet should be walked
- Preferred routes or parks
- Leash rules (e.g., off-leash areas or leash aggression)
- Favorite toys and games
- Indoor vs. outdoor play preferences
Let your sitter know what keeps your pet happy and tired out.
4. Bathroom Habits
Provide details like:
- Potty break schedule
- Where to take your pet to relieve themselves
- Litter box cleaning instructions (for cats)
- Waste disposal (poop bags, litter bags, etc.)
A consistent potty routine avoids accidents—and frustration.
5. Medication and Health Care
If your pet takes medication:
- Name and purpose of each medication
- Exact dosage and timing
- How to administer (with food, in treats, etc.)
- Signs of health issues to watch for
- Vet’s contact info and your emergency vet clinic
Even if your pet is healthy, include:
- Your vet’s name, address, and phone number
- Your pet insurance info (if applicable)
6. Emergency Contact Info
Besides your vet, include:
- Your contact info
- Where you’ll be and how to reach you
- A backup contact (friend, family, or neighbor)
- Written permission for your sitter to authorize care if you can’t be reached
7. Home and Safety Instructions
If the sitter is staying at your home or stopping by:
- Alarm system info or house keys instructions
- Instructions for locking up and lights
- Safe areas and off-limits rooms
- Hazards to avoid (e.g., a gate your dog can open, plants that are toxic)
8. Daily Routine & Comfort
Pets thrive on routine. Include:
- Typical schedule: wake-up, meals, walks, bedtime
- Sleeping arrangements (crate, bed, couch?)
- Comfort items (blankets, toys, music, etc.)
- How your pet handles alone time
The more your sitter can replicate your pet’s normal routine, the less stressed your pet will be.
9. Behavior Tips
Help your sitter handle common behaviors:
- Separation anxiety
- Fear of strangers or loud noises
- How your pet reacts to other animals
- Commands your pet knows (and the exact words you use)
- Reward system or discipline approach
This helps your sitter manage your pet with confidence and consistency.
10. Anything Else That’s Important
Every pet is unique. Maybe your cat only drinks running water from the faucet. Maybe your parrot gets anxious if you don’t say goodnight. These little quirks matter—so include them!
Final Tip: Write it Down and Make It Easy to Access
Put everything in a document or printable checklist. Leave it in an obvious place, or share it digitally before your trip. Include photos of your pet, and label food and medications clearly.
Your pet sitter will thank you—and so will your pet!
