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What to Do Before You Leave for Vacation: A Pet Sitting Checklist
Vacation Time Don’t Forget Your Pet’s Checklist
Planning a vacation is exciting, but if you’re a pet parent, it also comes with added responsibility. Making sure your pet is safe, comfortable, and well cared for while you're away requires some thoughtful preparation. Whether you're hiring a professional sitter, asking a friend, or using a pet boarding service, organization is key.
To help, we’ve put together the ultimate pet sitting checklist—so you can travel with peace of mind, knowing your pet is happy and cared for in your absence.
Before You Leave: The Complete Pet Sitting Checklist
1. Choose the Right Type of Care
Decide who will look after your pet:
- Professional pet sitter(at your home or theirs)
- Friend or family member
- Pet boarding facility
Choose the option that matches your pet’s personality. For example, anxious or senior pets usually do better at home with a sitter.
2. Meet and Vet the Pet Sitter
If using a sitter (professional or friend), arrange a meet-and-greet so your pet gets comfortable. During this visit:
- Observe how they interact with your pet
- Walk through your pet’s daily routine
- Share key expectations and emergency contacts
If hiring a pro, ask for references and insurance proof.
3. Create a Pet Information Sheet
Write down everything your sitter needs to know:
- Feeding times and amounts
- Medication instructions
- Bathroom habits and schedule
- Favorite toys, games, or comfort routines
- Emergency vet and your contact details
- Behavioral quirks (e.g., scared of thunder, doesn’t like doorbells)
Print it out and leave it in an obvious place—or email it as a backup.
4. Stock Up on Supplies
Make sure you have enough supplies for the entire vacation:
- Pet food and treats
- Litter or poop bags
- Medications and supplements
- Leashes, harnesses, toys
- Cleaning products for accidents
- Extra water and food bowls (in case of emergency)
Pro tip: Add 2–3 days’ worth of extras, just in case of travel delays.
5. Pet-Proof Your Home
Help your sitter avoid any surprises by pet-proofing your space:
- Secure trash cans and food cabinets
- Remove toxic plants or small chewable items
- Close off unsafe areas or rooms
- Check fences or pet doors for escape routes
Leaving a safe, tidy environment reduces stress for both your pet and the sitter.
6. Share House Rules
Don’t forget to clarify what’s allowed:
- Is your pet allowed on the couch or bed
- Can the sitter take your dog for car rides or to parks
- Are there areas in the house that are off-limits
- Are there specific times your pet gets a treat or walks
Clear boundaries lead to a consistent and comforting routine.
7. Update ID Tags and Microchip Info
Make sure your pet’s ID tags are current and securely attached to their collar. If they’re microchipped, ensure your contact info is up-to-date in the registry.
In the rare case your pet escapes, this step could make all the difference in reuniting with them quickly.
8. Leave Comfort Items
Provide the sitter with items that help your pet feel secure:
- Your pet’s bed or blanket
- A favorite toy or chew
- An old T-shirt with your scent on it
These familiar smells and textures help reduce anxiety while you're away.
9. Establish a Communication Plan
Ask your sitter for regular updates:
- Daily photos, texts, or videos
- Check-ins after feedings or walks
- Emergency communication plan
It gives you peace of mind and helps the sitter feel supported too.
10. Emergency Preparedness
You hope nothing goes wrong—but it’s best to be prepared:
- Leave your vet’s contact information
- Provide an emergency contact (friend/family nearby)
- Sign a vet release form if using a professional sitter
- List nearby 24/7 animal hospitals
Having a plan in place ensures faster response time if anything unexpected happens.
11. Walk Through the Home with the Sitter
Do a final walkthrough before you leave:
- Show where pet supplies are stored
- Demonstrate how to use feeding tools
- Explain alarms, locks, and lighting systems
- Test backup keys if needed
This small step can save big headaches while you’re away.
12. Leave Calmly and Confidently
On departure day:
- Keep your emotions in check—don’t make it a dramatic goodbye
- Stick to your pet’s usual routine that morning
- Leave a calm environment (e.g., quiet music, dim lighting)
Pets often mirror our emotions. A calm exit sets the tone for the days ahead.
Bonus Tip: Vacation Pet Bag Checklist (for Boarding or Offsite Sitter)
If your pet is staying elsewhere, pack a bag with:
- Food (pre-portioned by day)
- Treats and medications
- Toys and bedding
- Emergency contact card
- Feeding and care instructions
- Copies of vaccination records
Label everything clearly. This ensures your sitter or boarding staff can provide seamless care.
Real-Life Example
Sonal from Bengalurubooked a 5-day trip and hired a local sitter for her senior dog, Coco. She followed this checklist and left detailed care notes, extra supplies, and a daily routine guide. Coco stayed calm and well-adjusted—and Sonal got updates with cute photos each evening.
She now says, “This checklist made all the difference—I came home to a happy dog and a stress-free house.”
Printable Quick Checklist Summary
Before You Leave:
Choose a care option (sitter, family, boarding)
Meet and brief the caregiver
Write a detailed pet care sheet
Stock food, meds, and supplies
Pet-proof the home
Clarify house rules
Update ID tags and microchip info
Provide comfort items
Arrange update schedule
Leave emergency contacts and vet info
Do a home walkthrough
Exit calmly and quietly
Conclusion: Set Your Pet—and Yourself—Up for a Worry-Free Vacation
You deserve to enjoy your vacation without worrying about your pet’s well-being. By following this checklist, you’re not just leaving your pet behind—you’re leaving them with comfort, care, and routine. A little prep goes a long way in ensuring peace of mind for you and your furry friend.
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