Updated on | by Critter Nets - Blogs
Before the Sitting Begins: Preparing for Medication Management
1. Gather Comprehensive Information from the Owner
Before taking over any medication routine, ask the pet parent for a detailed care sheet, including:
- Medication name, dose, and schedule
- Administration method(pill, liquid, injection, etc.)
- Preferred technique(e.g., hide in peanut butter, use pill pocket)
- Special instructions(with food, on empty stomach, refrigerate)
- Allergies or adverse reactions
- What to do if a dose is missed
- Emergency contact info, including the vet and nearby animal hospitals
Pro tip: Have the owner walk you through a full demo before they leave, especially if the pet is on injections or inhalers.
2. Create a Medication Schedule or Checklist
Maintaining consistency is crucial. Set alarms and create a daily checklist with:
- Time of administration
- Name of medication
- Confirmation checkbox
- Notes section (for reactions, resistance, side effects)
You can use a physical chart or digital tools like Google Sheets or pet care apps. This also helps reassure the pet parent that you’re on top of everything.
How to Administer Different Types of Medications
1. Oral Medications
These include pills, capsules, or liquid drops.
Tips:
- Hide pills in treats like cheese, wet food, or pill pockets
- Use a pill dispenser or syringe if the pet resists
- For liquids, gently squirt the medication along the gumline (not the throat)
- Praise and reward afterward
Important: Don’t crush or split pills unless approved by the vet — some medications have special coatings for timed release.
2. Topical Medications
This includes creams, ointments, or medicated baths for skin conditions, wounds, or infections.
Tips:
- Use gloves to apply medication
- Prevent the pet from licking the area (use an e-collar if necessary)
- Monitor for irritation or rashes
- If bathing, ensure the water temperature is pet-safe and rinse thoroughly
3. Injections (e.g., Insulin)
If you're administering insulin or allergy shots, extra care and calmness are vital.
Tips:
- Always use a new, sterile syringe
- Follow the pet’s preferred injection site (shoulder, flank, etc.)
- Reward with a treat afterward
- Double-check dose — even a slight overdose can be harmful
- Store medication (like insulin) in the refrigerator, and avoid freezing
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, ask the owner for training or request a vet tech’s assistance before sitting.
4. Eye and Ear Drops
For pets with glaucoma, ear infections, or dry eye.
Tips:
- Hold the pet gently but firmly (may need a second person to assist)
- Don’t let the applicator tip touch the eye or ear
- Gently massage the area after applying to help distribute the medication
- Reward and speak calmly throughout
5. Inhalers or Nebulizers
Used mainly for pets with asthma or bronchial issues.
Tips:
- Some pets tolerate face masks; others require slow conditioning
- Practice beforehand with the pet using just the mask (no medicine)
- Use in a quiet, calm space
- Observe the pet for improved breathing or discomfort post-use
Dealing with a Resistant Pet
Some pets aren’t fans of medicine — and will put up a fight. Here’s how to help:
- Use positive reinforcement: treats, praise, petting
- Disguise the experience: administer during play or mealtime
- Use calming techniques like wraps or low music
- Maintain a calm, confident demeanor — animals pick up on anxiety
- Ask the owner for techniques that have worked in the past
In extreme cases, you may need to contact the vet for alternatives like flavored meds, compounding, or longer-acting injections.
Monitoring for Side Effects or Issues
You’re the pet’s temporary guardian, so you need to be alert to signs of trouble:
Watch for:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Changes in appetite or behavior
- Swelling or redness at injection or application sites
- Breathing difficulties
Keep a log and contact the pet parent or vet immediately if anything seems off.
Emergency Protocols: What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
Mistakes can happen — a missed dose, a dropped pill, an unexpected reaction. Stay calm and follow these steps:
- Call the pet’s owner immediately.
- Contact the vetlisted in the care sheet.
- If after-hours, call the emergency animal hospital.
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Be ready to provide:
- Pet’s name and species
- Medication given and when
- Symptoms you’re observing
Important: Never guess or medicate without permission or vet instruction.
Building Trust with Special Needs Pets
Helping a pet through medication isn't just clinical — it’s emotional.
Here’s how to strengthen your bond:
- Speak in soothing tones
- Move slowly and gently
- Let the pet sniff or watch as you prepare the medicine
- Be patient; never force it
- Celebrate small wins like a smooth dose or calm reaction
Over time, even the most nervous pets can come to trust you — and that’s the most rewarding part of pet sitting.
What Pet Owners Can Do to Set You Up for Success
If you’re a pet parent leaving behind a special needs pet, here’s what you should provide:
- A clear written medication schedule
- Demo sessionsbefore you leave
- Enough medication (plus extra) for the duration
- Clear storage instructions
- A list of emergency contacts
- A signed note authorizing emergency medical care if needed
- Favorite treats, tools, or comfort items
This preparation will help your sitter feel empowered and capable.
Conclusion: Medication is Care, Love, and Responsibility
Pet sitting a special needs animal is a deeply compassionate role. Managing their medications with precision and empathy isn’t just about following instructions — it’s about preserving their well-being and dignity while their beloved human is away. You become their source of comfort, routine, and trust.
With the right knowledge, careful preparation, and a little patience, you can ensure their medication needs are met with both competence and kindness.
And remember — your role isn’t just logistical. You’re helping a vulnerable pet feel safe, seen, and cared for. That’s a beautiful thing.
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