Upon hiring a new pet sitter from your local pet sitting service, you will be required to provide some items to the pet sitter so he or she may use them to take care of your pet or have in case of an emergency. These will include items to be used daily as well as important paperwork. It is crucial that your pet sitter knows where all of this stuff is so he or she can provide you and your pet with the best pet sitting service they can.
Pet Items Used Daily
Set out the following pet items your pet needs and/or uses everyday. Also, let your pet sitter know where you keep the extras if anything is running low.
- Food and water bowl/dishes
- Dry food and/or canned food (and where to find extras)
- Tap water or filtered water
- Leash and collar with dog tag
- Backup leash, if needed
- Pee pad area and replacements
- Litter box, scoop, bags, odor eliminator
- Treats! (of course)
- Medications or vitamins
- Toys!
- Bed or blankets
- Pet carrier/cage
- Clothes or sweaters (if you like to dress them up or keep them warm)
- Toothbrush or toothpaste, if needed
- Grooming brushes or combs
- Shampoo and other bathing accessories (tub, hose, towels, etc.)
- Blow dryer, if used
- Flea spray/drops
- Flea spray for your yard
- Nail clippers
Important Paperwork or Information About Your Pet
It is very important that your pet sitter knows where to find this information in case of an emergency.
- Medical history
- Proof of vaccinations
- Your pet’s Veterinarian’s contact info
- Preferred animal hospital
- Your pet’s allergies
- Current medical conditions or status
- Any special instructions needed to care for your pet
- Your pet’s Microchip number
- Documentation that pet sitter has permission to care for your pet and be in your home
- Your contact information in case of an emergency
- Nearest friend or relative in case of an emergency
Other Preferences
These are a few fun things your pet may prefer.
- Favorite groomer
- Favorite park
- A special store (like a pet store or dog treat shop they can go in)
- Favorite neighborhood pet to play with
- Favorite spot to sleep (Maybe they like to lay in the sunlight so you’ll need to keep the blinds open a bit.)
- Favorite toy or treat
- Tricks!
- Favorite activities
That should be a pretty comprehensive list of things to provide your pet sitter with while you are gone. Many professional sitters will ask for this information, and possibly even more, all to ensure they will be able to provide you and your pet with the best pet sitting service possible.
