10 Essential Items to Leave for Your Pet Sitter

Ensure your pet sitter has everything they need for successful pet care. Here's a comprehensive list of essential items to prepare before you leave.

A well-prepared home makes pet sitting smoother for everyone involved. Here are the ten essential items you should leave for your pet sitter to ensure quality care for your furry friend:

Pet Food and Feeding Supplies

• Extra Food: More than enough for your time away
• Measuring Cups: For precise portions
• Clean Bowls: For food and water
• Treats: Regular treats and special rewards
• Feeding Schedule: Written instructions for portions and timing

Cleaning and Hygiene Items

• Waste Bags: Plenty for daily walks
• Litter and Scoop: Fresh supply for cats
• Paper Towels: For unexpected messes
• Pet-Safe Cleaning Supplies: For accidents
• Grooming Tools: Brushes, wipes, or other regular grooming items

Medical and Health Supplies

• Medications: Clearly labeled with instructions
• First Aid Kit: Basic pet emergency supplies
• Vet Records: Current vaccinations and health history
• Pet Insurance Card: If applicable

Exercise and Entertainment

• Leash and Harness: Including backups if needed
• Favorite Toys: Various options for play
• Puzzle Games: For mental stimulation
• Exercise Instructions: Preferred walking routes or play routines

Comfort Items

• Beds and Blankets: All regular sleeping items
• Familiar Objects: Items with your scent
• Crate or Carrier: If normally used
• Comfort Toys: Special items for anxiety relief

Home Access Items

• House Keys: Tested before handover
• Security Codes: Written clearly with instructions
• Garage Door Opener: If needed
• Building Access Cards: For apartments or gated communities

Contact Information

• Emergency Contacts: Your details and backup contacts
• Veterinarian Info: Regular and emergency vet numbers
• Neighbor Contacts: For backup assistance
• Local Emergency Services: Including animal control

Home Care Instructions

• Thermostat Guide: Settings and adjustments
• Light Timers: If used
• Mail/Package Instructions: If handling is needed
• Plant Care Notes: If included in services

Pet Schedule Details

• Daily Routine: Detailed timeline of activities
• Behavior Notes: Common habits and quirks
• Command List: Words or signals your pet knows
• Restricted Areas: Places pets shouldn't access

Documentation and Records

• Care Journal: Notebook for daily updates and observations
• Photo Permission: Guidelines for sharing pet photos/updates
• House Rules: Written household guidelines and preferences
• Pet's Daily Log: Template for tracking activities and behavior

Final Thoughts

Being well-prepared with these essential items helps ensure a positive experience for both your pet and the sitter. Consider creating a checklist to verify all items are ready before your departure. Remember, it's better to over-prepare than to leave your sitter without something they might need.