Summer is peak travel season, and as much as we’d love to bring our pets everywhere, that’s not always possible. Between packing, transportation, and accommodations, prepping for a pet sitter can add to the stress, so here’s a simple checklist to make handing off your fur-babies smooth and worry-free.
1. Find a Pet Sitter You Trust
You wouldn’t leave your kids with just anyone, and your pets deserve the same care. Look for an insured, bonded, professional sitter with a real backup plan, not a gig-app stranger who might cancel the morning of your flight. Meeting them in advance matters. Meet our sitters to see what that looks like.
2. Write a Detailed Care Checklist
Put your pet’s daily routine in writing: feeding amounts and times, medications, walk or potty schedule, favorite games, house rules, and any quirks. The more your sitter knows, the more seamless your pet’s routine stays while you’re gone.
3. Leave Clear Emergency Info
Write down your vet’s name, address, and phone number, plus a local emergency contact and how to reach you. Let your vet know a sitter may bring your pet in and that they’re authorized to approve care if needed.
4. Stock Up Before You Go
Make sure there’s enough food, litter, medication, and supplies to last your whole trip plus a couple of extra days, and leave everything where it’s easy to find. Running out mid-trip is a headache no one needs.
5. Do a Meet & Greet First
Before your trip, have your sitter come by to meet your pet, see the home, and walk through the routine together. It lets your pet get comfortable with a new face and gives you total peace of mind before you leave. It’s also the perfect time to hand over keys, alarm codes, and any last questions.
Preparing for a Pet Sitter FAQ
How far in advance should I book a pet sitter for a trip?
As early as you can, especially in summer and around holidays, which book up fast. Reaching out a few weeks ahead gives you the best chance at your preferred dates.
What should I leave out for my pet sitter?
Food and feeding instructions, medications, leashes, litter supplies, cleaning supplies, your written routine, vet and emergency contacts, and anything your pet finds comforting.
Do you do a meet & greet before the first booking?
Yes, every new client starts with a free meet & greet so we can meet your pet and learn their routine before you ever leave town. Contact us to set one up.
Traveling soon? Let us take the pet-care worry off your plate. Our insured, bonded team provides in-home pet sitting across Anthem, Scottsdale, and North Phoenix, with photo updates after every visit so you can relax and enjoy your trip.
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