Tips for Preparing for a Pet Sitter

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title: Tips for Preparing for a Pet Sitter description: Practical prep tips that make life easier for your pet, your sitter, and you — from stocked supplies to pet-proofed rooms. date: "2021-01-21" image: /images/blog/tips-for-preparing-for-a-pet-sitter/hero.jpg

When you have to leave town, finding the right pet sitter is one thing — setting your home up well is another. A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth stay for everyone. Here's what we recommend.

Make pet supplies easy to find

Leave the leash, food, treats, and medication out where they're easy to grab. If you'd rather store food in a closed cupboard, a quick note on the counter is just as good. Less time hunting means more time playing.

Keep supplies fully stocked

Check your stock before you leave. A week of food, treats, medication, litter, and waste bags — plus a little extra. Your sitter can always run out for more, but you'll get more attention for your pet if they don't have to.

Leave clear instructions

A short written note covers a lot:

• Where the food and supplies live
• Feeding amounts and times
• Medication dosing
• Routine quirks ("she needs a night light," "he gets walked before breakfast")
• Areas of the home that are off-limits
• Vet contact and any allergies

Pet-proof the home

Bored pets explore. Before you go, close toilet lids, shut cupboards, and put away anything chewable. A quick walk through each room catches the things you'd never think of until you came back to a chewed remote.

Block off rooms

If there are rooms your pet doesn't need access to, close the doors. Equally — if there's a favorite sleeping spot, leave it open. Routine matters more than ever while you're away.

Set the thermostat

It's tempting to crank the thermostat down for the week, but your pet still lives there. Keep it at a temperature that's comfortable for them, and note any day/night preferences in your instructions.

Schedule a consultation

Every booking with Paws Up starts with an in-person consultation where we meet your pet, discuss the routine, and go over paperwork. The earlier you book, the more flexibility we have around your dates. Get started today.