Leaving your dog in the care of an in-home sitter offers peace of mind, as your dog can remain in a familiar environment. However, preparation is essential to ensure a smooth experience for both your pet and the sitter. Whether it’s for a day or a week, taking the time to properly set things up can make all the difference. Here’s how you can prepare your dog—and your home—for in-home pet sitting, so both you and your dog feel comfortable and confident.
Meet and Greet In-Home
Before the sitter’s first stay, arrange a meet-and-greet session to introduce them to your dog. This helps your pet get acquainted with a new person and lessens any anxiety they may have about a stranger entering their space. It’s also a great time to walk the sitter through your home, explain routines, and go over any specific instructions for your dog’s care. This pre-visit builds trust and sets a positive tone for when the sitter returns in your absence.
Maintain Your Dog's Routine
Dogs thrive on consistency, and maintaining their usual routine will help reduce stress. Provide the sitter with a detailed schedule, including feeding times, walk times, and any specific activities your dog enjoys, like play sessions or training exercises. If your dog has medications, ensure the sitter understands when and how they should be administered. The more consistent your dog’s day-to-day routine remains, the more at ease they’ll feel while you’re away.
Prepare All Essentials for Your Sitter
Make sure all supplies your sitter might need are ready and easy to find. This includes:
Food and treats (with clear feeding instructions)
Water bowls
Leashes and collars for walks
Any medications or supplements
Your dog’s favorite toys and bedding for comfort Organizing these items in a designated spot will simplify things for the sitter and help avoid confusion or missed details. Additionally, leave a note with your vet’s contact information, local emergency vet services, and any other important contacts.
Leave Comfort Items
If your dog has a favorite blanket, toy, or even an old shirt with your scent, leave these items out for them. Familiar smells can be incredibly comforting to dogs, especially during times of separation. Having these comfort items around will help your dog feel more relaxed, as they’ll be reminded of you even when you’re not home.
Communicate Expectations Clearly
Discuss your expectations with the sitter ahead of time. Do you want regular updates and photos? Should they take your dog on specific walking routes or avoid certain areas? Be clear about what you'd like so the sitter knows how to best care for your dog according to your preferences. It’s also a good idea to leave written instructions for easy reference, ensuring nothing is forgotten.
Emergency Preparedness
Make sure your sitter knows what to do in case of an emergency. Leave a list of emergency contacts, including your vet and a nearby friend or family member who can assist if needed. Additionally, create a plan for how the sitter should handle medical emergencies or behavioral issues that may arise while you're away. A well-prepared sitter will feel confident and capable of handling any unexpected situations.
In-home pet sitting is a great way to ensure your dog remains comfortable and stress-free in their own environment while you’re away. By preparing ahead of time—introducing the sitter, maintaining routines, and providing all necessary supplies—you can help your dog feel secure and make the sitter’s job much easier. With the right preparation, both you and your dog can enjoy a peaceful and worry-free experience.
Beyond Behavior offers expert pet care in the safety of your home. Complete an inquiry form to book with us today, including a free meet and greet.
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