What Dog Sitter Should Know About Your Dog: Dog Sitter Checklist & Instructions

a three colored dog in the dog park

Leaving your dog in the care of a sitter can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially if it's the first time. To make the transition smooth for both your furry friend and the sitter, providing clear instructions and a detailed checklist is essential. This ensures that your dog's routine is maintained, they receive proper care, and any emergencies are handled effectively. 

Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your dog's time with a sitter.

Meet and Greet with the Sitter

Before handing over your dog's care, arrange a meeting between your dog and the sitter. This gives both parties a chance to bond and helps your dog feel more comfortable. It also allows you to discuss your dog's habits, preferences, and behavior in person, ensuring the sitter knows what to expect.

During the meeting, cover the following:

  • Introduce your dog to the sitter in a relaxed, comfortable environment.

  • Discuss any specific commands your dog is used to (e.g., "sit," "stay," or "leave it").

  • Observe the sitter's interaction with your dog to make sure they are compatible.

  • Exchange contact information, including emergency contacts and your vet’s details.

Essential Information to Share

When you leave your dog with a sitter, it's crucial to provide all the necessary details about your dog’s daily routine, health, and preferences. A well-organized list of instructions helps avoid confusion and ensures that your dog’s needs are met.

Key points to include:

  • Feeding Schedule: Provide details about how much and when to feed your dog. Mention any dietary restrictions or preferences. Don’t forget to leave your dog’s favorite food and treats with your sitter, here are some storage containers for dog food.

  • Walk and Exercise Routine: Let the sitter know how often your dog needs to be walked, what kind of exercise they enjoy, and whether they have any favorite walking routes.

  • Bathroom Breaks: Specify how frequently your dog needs to be let out for bathroom breaks.

  • Medications: If your dog is on any medication, provide clear instructions on how and when to administer it.

  • Behavioral Quirks: Mention any specific behaviors or triggers to be aware of, such as fear of thunderstorms, separation anxiety, requiring dog steps for bed, or aggressive reactions to other animals.

  • Favorite Toys or Belongings: Help the sitter keep your dog entertained by leaving a list of favorite toys, games, or activities your dog enjoys. You can leave one of your comfy dog beds with your sitter for your dog to feel more relaxed. 

Emergency Plan

No one likes to think about emergencies, but it's important to prepare for them when leaving your dog with a sitter. In case something unexpected happens, the sitter should know exactly what steps to take.

  • Vet Contact Information: Provide the name, address, and phone number of your vet, along with the closest 24-hour emergency clinic.

  • Permission for Medical Treatment: Some vets require written permission from the pet owner to treat a dog in their absence. Double-check with your vet and leave a signed letter with the sitter if necessary.

  • Emergency Contact Numbers: Provide contact information for family or friends who can assist in your absence.

  • First Aid Kit: Prepare a basic dog first aid kit and leave it with the sitter. It should include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any specific medications your dog may need.

Home Care Instructions

If your dog sitter will be staying in your home while you’re away, it's a good idea to provide some basic household instructions as well. This can help your sitter feel more comfortable and ensure everything runs smoothly while you're gone.

  • Access to Keys and Security Codes: Make sure the sitter knows how to enter your home and arm/disarm any security systems.

  • Instructions for Appliances: If the sitter will be using your appliances, such as the washing machine or heating system, leave clear instructions on how to use them.

  • Wi-Fi and Entertainment Access: Provide the Wi-Fi password and any instructions for using TVs or other electronics, if applicable.

  • Garbage and Recycling: Let the sitter know where to dispose of waste and the garbage/recycling pick-up schedule.

Creating a Safe Environment

Ensuring your home is safe for your dog during your absence is critical. Take steps to secure the space and minimize the risk of accidents.

  • Block Off Unsafe Areas: If there are parts of the house where your dog is not allowed or that might pose a safety risk (like rooms with fragile items), block them off with baby gates or closed doors.

  • Toxic Items: Double-check that any household chemicals, medications, or plants that could be toxic to your dog are out of reach.

  • Secure Outdoor Space: If your dog will be spending time outside, make sure the yard is secure, with no gaps in the fence where they might escape.

Updates and Communication

Decide how often you'd like updates from the sitter during your time away. Some pet owners prefer daily updates with photos, while others are happy with occasional check-ins.

  • Frequency of Updates: Discuss whether you'd like daily updates, pictures, or texts about your dog’s well-being.

  • Preferred Method of Communication: Let the sitter know whether you prefer to be contacted via text, phone call, or email.

  • Availability: Make sure the sitter knows when and how to reach you if they have questions or concerns.

Leaving Detailed Instructions

Before you leave, write out detailed instructions for the sitter. This should include a daily schedule for feeding, exercise, and bathroom breaks, as well as notes on your dog’s health and behavior. A written guide helps ensure nothing important is forgotten.

A sample daily schedule might look like this;

7:00 AM: Morning walk and bathroom break

8:00 AM: Breakfast (1 cup of kibble)

12 PM: Short walk or playtime

5:00 PM: Dinner (1 cup of kibble)

7:00 PM: Evening walk and bathroom break

9:00 PM: Bedtime, let out for a quick bathroom break before bed

Final Walkthrough Before Leaving

On the day you're leaving, walk through the checklist with your sitter one last time. Make sure they’re comfortable with all the instructions and feel free to ask any last-minute questions. A thorough review ensures your dog will be in good hands.

a dog sitter is petting an adult dog

FAQs

Is it OK to leave a dog with a sitter? 

Yes, leaving your dog with a trusted sitter is a great way to ensure they receive proper care and attention in your absence. As long as the sitter is experienced and follows your instructions, your dog will be in good hands.

Can dogs be left alone for 2 days? 

No, it's not recommended to leave a dog alone for 2 days without supervision. Dogs need regular feeding, bathroom breaks, and companionship. If you plan to be away for an extended period, hiring a sitter to check in regularly or stay with your dog is a better option.

How many times should a dog sitter let a dog out?  

Most dogs need to be let out 3-5 times a day, depending on their age, size, and activity level. Puppies and older dogs may need more frequent bathroom breaks, while some adult dogs can go longer between trips outside.

How long is too long to leave your dog with a sitter? 

There's no set time limit, but it's important to ensure your dog feels comfortable and happy with the sitter. Long periods away (more than a week or two) may cause stress, so if you'll be gone for an extended period, make sure to check in frequently and consider leaving familiar items, such as toys or blankets, to help your dog feel more at home.

By following this checklist and providing clear instructions, you can leave your dog with a sitter with confidence, knowing they’ll be well cared for while you're away.

 

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