How to Prepare Your Home for a Pet Sitter
Hiring a pet sitter is one of the best ways to ensure your pets remain happy, safe, and comfortable within their own home while you’re away. Instead of adjusting to a kennel or unfamiliar environment, your pets get to stay in their own home, following their normal routine with a trusted pet sitter. But even with an experienced sitter, there are a few simple steps you can take to make the process smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable for both your pet and your sitter.
Whether you’re planning daily drop-ins, overnight stays, or long-term travel coverage, proper preparation helps your sitter focus on what matters most — caring for your pets. Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare your home so your sitter has everything they need.
✅ 1. Create a Clear and Detailed Pet Care Plan
Your sitter will follow your instructions — so make sure everything is organized, accessible, and written down. Before your reservation begins, your pet sitter should have:
Feeding instructions (food, portions, schedule, prep steps, and location of food)
Medication schedule and dosage, if applicable
Treat rules (what’s allowed and what’s not)
Daily routines (walk times, potty schedule, playtime, bedtime)
Your pet’s personality and quirks (fears, anxieties, favorite toys, off-limits behaviors)
Emergency contacts and your preferred veterinarian information
The more detail you provide, the better. Think of it this way: if someone else read your instructions, could they confidently care for your pet?
✅ 2. Prepare Your Home Environment
A tidy and organized space makes it easier and safer for your sitter and your pet. Before the first visit, be sure to:
Restock food, treats, cleaning supplies, poop bags, and litter
Place leashes, harnesses, carriers, and grooming tools in a visible location
Set out pet towels or wipes if you want paws cleaned after walks
Remove hazards, such as toxic plants, small choking hazards, loose medications, or food on counters
Secure trash cans with lids (especially for counter surfers!)
If your sitter needs access to appliances, like a vacuum, broom, or litter scooper, put them somewhere obvious and easy to reach.
✅ 3. Set Up a Safe, Comfortable Space for Your Pet
Every pet has their own preferences. Some love cuddling in the living room, while others prefer quiet spaces. You can set your sitter up for success by designating:
A sleeping or rest area (crate, bed, or blanket)
A feeding station
A potty area for dogs or a clean litter box for cats
A toy or play space
Keeping the environment consistent helps pets feel secure when their routine changes.
✅ 4. Ensure the Sitter Can Enter and Exit Safely
Your sitter’s ability to access your home is essential for on-time care. Before you leave, confirm:
The entry method (key, lockbox, smart lock code, garage keypad, etc.)
How to disarm or reset the alarm system
Instructions for finicky locks, gates, or doors
Any “tricky” parts of the house (sticky sliding door, gate latch, etc.)
It’s wise to have a backup plan, such as a trusted neighbor with a spare key — especially during winter, storms, or travel delays.
✅ 5. Leave Emergency Information in an Accessible Spot
Even though emergencies are rare, a prepared sitter can act fast if needed. Leave this information in a central place, such as on the counter or fridge:
Veterinarian name, address, and phone number
Closest 24-hour emergency vet
Emergency contacts (relative or neighbor)
Pet insurance details (if applicable)
Your travel itinerary and cell number
This step gives peace of mind to everyone involved — especially you.
✅ 6. Make Home Instructions Available Too
Remember, your sitter is also caring for your home. It helps to include instructions for:
Thermostat preferences
Watering indoor or outdoor plants
Mail or package handling
Light and blind preferences for security
Wi-Fi password (optional, but helpful for sending photo updates)
Simple instructions prevent assumptions and keep your home running smoothly.
✅ 7. Do a Meet and Greet With Your Sitter
If possible, schedule a meet-and-greet or walk-through before the official start of care. This allows you to:
Show them where supplies are kept
Introduce your pets in a relaxed setting
Hand off keys or access codes
Review instructions and routines in person
This brief step makes the transition easier on your pets — and ensures your sitter feels confident and prepared.
✅ 8. Don’t Make Sudden Routine Changes
Try to keep your pet’s schedule as normal as possible leading up to your departure. Sudden changes can add stress. Keeping meal times, walk times, and sleeping areas consistent will help your pet adjust more easily while you’re away.
🐾 Final Thoughts
Preparing your home for a pet sitter is one of the best ways to ensure your pets feel safe and your sitter can deliver the best care possible. With a little organization and clear communication, you’ll head out the door feeling confident — and your sitter will have everything they need to keep tails wagging until you return.
