Quick Answer: To prepare for a pet sitter, update your pet care instructions, stock necessary supplies (food, litter, medication), secure dangerous household items, adjust the thermostat for comfort, check safety devices like smoke detectors, ensure pet ID tags are up to date, and confirm keys are in your lockbox and door and garage pads have new batteries.
At Steph’s Pet Sitting in Media, PA, we prepare thoroughly for every client’s trip. Following this simple checklist ensures peace of mind for you, and a stress-free experience for your pets while you are away.
Essential Steps to Prepare for Your Pet Sitter
1. Update Profile & Stock Care Supplies
- Update Trip Details: Confirm departure and return times, emergency contact information, and specific care notes in your account.
- Stock Supplies: Leave enough food, treats, litter, and medications for the duration of your trip.
- Set Out Essentials: Place leashes, pet carriers, towels, toys, and cleaning supplies in visible locations.
2. Secure Your Home Environment
- Maintain Comfortable Climate: Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature and demonstrate its operation during your initial meet-and-greet.
- Check Alarms & Security: Replace low batteries in smoke detectors to avoid chirping noises that stress pets. Verify alarm disarm codes.
- Remove Hazards: Move toxic plants (such as poinsettias) and hazardous decorations out of reach.
- Provide Entry Lighting: Turn on an entry light if your sitter’s first visit occurs after dark.
3. Support Pet Comfort & Safety
- Provide Familiar Scents: Place an unwashed item of your clothing on your pet’s bed to reduce separation anxiety.
- Sound and Music: Leave the radio on or ask Alexa to ‘Play relaxing music for my pet.’ There are also TV channels for pets!
- Verify Identification: Ensure pets wear current ID tags and that microchip contact details are up to date.
- Coordinate Visitors: Notify your sitter if contractors, cleaners, or family members will enter the home during your absence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What information should I give my pet sitter before leaving?
Provide your travel dates, emergency contact numbers, vet details, medication schedules, feeding routines, home alarm codes, and any unique behavioral quirks. Updating all the information we ask for in your Time To Pet account assures we have everything we need to provide top notch service and give you peace of mind while you’re away.
How will I know how my pet is doing while I’m away?
You’ll receive a personalized Pawgress Report right as each visit ends. Sent directly through your client account, this update includes photos of your pet, details on their food and water intake, potty or exercise notes, and a summary of the fun they had with their sitter so you can enjoy complete peace of mind!