According to a recent survey of 2,000 dog owners, 40 % admitted they constantly worry about their pets within the first hour of travel, and 76% base their summer plans around securing trustworthy care before they leave. For pet parents, that anxiety is real. Asking a professional sitter to care for your beloved pets while you’re away means more than handing over keys, it means creating a seamless plan to preserve routines, minimize stress, and ensure your sitter feels confident and informed. The following checklist helps you prepare both your pet and your home for a safe and smooth staycation experience.
Preparing Pets and Home for a Professional Sitter
- Schedule a Meet‑and‑Greet or Trial Visit
Introduce your sitter to your pet—and your home—a few days before your trip. This helps reduce anxiety and builds familiarity. It also gives the sitter a chance to ask questions and create a routine plan ahead of time. - Provide Detailed Pet Profile & Instructions
Create a profile that includes your pet’s name, age, breed, personality quirks, medical conditions, dietary restrictions, behavior triggers, and medication instructions. Include feeding times, portion sizes, exercise routines, and favorite hiding spots or toys. - Gather Essential Supplies in One Spot
Put together feeding bowls, treats, food, medications, litter supplies (for cats), toys, and bedding in an easily accessible yet secure pet station. Label items and pre‑portion meals if needed. - Pet‑Proof Your Home
Remove choking hazards, toxic plants, small toys, and wires. Close off unused rooms and secure the backyard gates. Make sure trash cans are inaccessible and potential dangers are minimized. - Update ID Tags and Microchip Info
Verify that your pet’s collar tags are current and that microchip registration is up to date. Provide clear instructions for when to use the leash or harness and where extras are stored. - Share Emergency Contacts & Veterinary Information
Leave a list that includes your vet’s name/address/number, nearest 24‑hour emergency clinic, the ASPCA poison control hotline, and a backup contact who can make decisions for your pet in case you’re unreachable. - Cover House Logistics & Boundaries
Provide instructions about alarm systems, Wi‑Fi access, thermostat codes, access routes, where cleaning supplies are kept, and any rooms that are off‑limits. If your sitter is staying overnight, note sleeping arrangements and house rules in advance. - Maintain Your Pet’s Routine Prior to Departure
Keep feeding, walking, playtime, and sleep schedules consistent in the days leading up to your trip. If your pet is nervous, engage them in extra exercise or a short play session before you leave. - Introduce Comfort Items & Familiar Smells
Leave your pet a familiar blanket or favorite toy. You can even leave an item of clothing with your scent. This helps reduce separation anxiety and makes the sitter’s visits smoother. - Clarify Communication & Update Expectations
Let your sitter know how often you’d like updates (text, photo, app), and whether certain areas are camera‑monitored (disclosed prior to arrival). Confirm that they understand whether housecleaning tasks are expected.
Final Takeaway
Thoughtful preparation sets the stage for a stress-free trip—both for you and your pet. Clear instructions, familiar routines, and a safe environment help your sitter excel at care and make your absence as seamless as possible. Use our checklist before you leave https://vippets.net/before-you-leave-checklist/
Learn More and Inquire About VIP Pets
At VIP Pets, we specialize in high-touch, personalized in‑home pet care with consistent sitters who honor every detail of your pet’s routine and home setup. From meet‑and‑greet prep to emergency planning and daily updates, our process ensures comfort, transparency, and trust. Reach out today to learn more about our services, schedule a consultation, or request a customized sitter readiness checklist. Let us protect your pet’s comfort so you can travel with certainty.