If you find yourself having to take a trip and can’t take your furry friend along, arranging a pet sitter (whether it’s a trusted friend, family member or a professional) is a great way to ensure your pet stays safe, happy and well cared for.
To help you get fully prepared while keeping disruption to your pet’s routine to a minimum, here’s our handy checklist of everything you should leave with the person in charge.
1. Your vet’s details
Leave your vet’s name, address and contact number. It’s also a good idea to leave an emergency or out-of-hours contact.
Put these details somewhere safe but obvious (the fridge door is a classic spot). And don’t forget to tell your sitter where your pet carrier is, just in case they need to make a trip to the vet.
2. An emergency contact
Whether it’s your mum or your neighbour, choose someone your sitter can contact in the unlikely event of an emergency if they can’t reach you. Overcautious? Maybe. But knowing you’re prepared will give you extra peace of mind.
3. Your contact details
Along with your phone number, you’ll want to leave the address where you’ll be staying. It’s also helpful to include your exact travel dates and times (such as flight details).
Top tip: Make sure there’s a contingency plan in place if you’re delayed – someone who can step in if your sitter can’t extend their stay.
4. House rules
These are for your pet, not the sitter! Make sure they know if your cat isn’t allowed to sit on the kitchen table, or if your dog shouldn’t be napping on your bed.
When it comes to pets, consistency is key. Keeping rules the same helps avoid confusion and saves you from retraining when you return.
5. Your neighbour’s details
If you know your neighbours, let them know that someone else will be staying at your place, if only to save any awkward “who’s that?” moments.
It’s also worth leaving a spare key with them in case your sitter gets locked out. It happens more often than you’d think.
6. Medication and instructions
If your pet is on any medication or allergy treatment, leave clear instructions on when and how to administer it. The same goes for routine treatments like flea and tick treatments or worming tablets if they’re due while you’re away.
7. Your landlord’s information
If you rent your property, it’s a good idea to leave your landlord’s contact details and let them know someone else will be staying. Just in case of a domestic disaster, like your washing machine deciding it’d be a good time to go haywire and flood the kitchen.
8. Feeding instructions
Very important, of course. It’s easiest to leave your pet’s food out in one place, along with everything your sitter might need. Include feeding times, portion sizes, and dietary quirks (we all know some pets can be a little fussy).
9. Your pet’s favourite places
Does your cat like to perch on top of the fridge? Does your dog retreat to the spare room for some quiet time? Let your sitter know. For a start, so that they won’t think they’ve lost your treasured companion if their favourite spots are somewhere hidden, and also so that they can make sure your pet has access to them.
10. Any expected visitors
Let your sitter know if Nigel from across the road will be coming over to water the plants, or if your mother-in-law pops in every Wednesday afternoon to do your ironing. That way, your sitter will know if someone turns up unannounced.
11. A day in the life of your pet
This one’s for you. Mentally walk through a typical day and make sure everything your pet needs is easily accessible.
That includes essentials like dog leads, poop bags, grooming tools or your cat’s favourite toys. It’s also worth noting down walk times, playtime habits, and any little routines your pet is used to.
If you really can’t bear to be apart…
A pet camera lets you check in and even talk to your pet while you’re away. No better remedy for separation anxiety than seeing that your fluffy friend is happy and well.
Finally, remember, although it’s never easy to say goodbye to your best friend for any length of time, try to act calm and normal when you leave. With everything prepared and your sitter fully briefed, you can feel confident that your pet is in safe hands – and likely having a great time too.
