We all know the basics: two scoops of dry kibble at 7:00 AM, fresh water daily, and a walk around the block before sunset. But every pet owner knows their animal operates on a far more nuanced set of unwritten rules.
Does your dog panic at the sound of the wheelie bin being moved? Does your cat only drink running water from the laundry tap?
A comprehensive Pet Welcome Guide turns a good house sit into a seamless one. As we head into the busy holiday season, taking ten minutes to map out your pet’s unique personality gives your sitter total confidence – and keeps your pet’s routine completely undisturbed.
For Homeowners: 5 Things Beyond Feeding to Include in Your Guide
When writing your sitter instructions, skip the novel and focus on actionable, quick-reference details. Here are five critical areas owners often overlook:
- Fear Triggers & Comfort Tactics: Note any specific phobias – thunderstorms, fireworks, vacuums, or motorbikes – and where your pet goes to feel safe. Include what actually works to comfort them (e.g., turning on the TV, putting on a thunder shirt, or simply leaving them alone).
- The “Secret” Hiding Spots: Cats and small dogs are masters of vanishing when a routine changes. List their favorite dark corners, under-bed nooks, or garden spots so your sitter doesn’t panic when they can’t find them right away.
- Emergency & Vet Approvals: Leave your vet’s name, address, and phone number on the front page. Crucially, leave a brief written note authorizing the sitter to seek emergency care on your behalf while you are mid-flight or out of range.
- Walk Quirks & Behavior on Lead: Does your dog react to bicycles, unneutered males, or stray cats? Is there a specific command you use to get their attention? Giving your sitter a heads-up prevents awkward or unsafe situations on daily walks.
- Bedtime & Off-Limits Furniture: Be explicit about boundaries. If the dog sleeps on the bed, let the sitter know! If the couch is off-limits, mention it early so rules stay consistent throughout the stay.
Homeowner Checklist: Place a printed copy of your guide on the kitchen counter alongside your vet card, local emergency numbers, and spare keys.
For Sitters: The 3 “Handover Walk-Through” Questions to Ask
Even the most thorough owners forget to write down every detail. During your initial walk-through or pre-sit call, ask these three quick questions to fill in the gaps:
- “What does [Pet Name] do when they aren’t feeling well?”
- Why it matters: Subtle signs of illness vary wildly. Some dogs stop eating, while others become unusually clingy or hide. Knowing their baseline saves guesswork.
- “Are there any escape routes or gate quirks I should watch out for?”
- Why it matters: A latch that requires a trick to lock properly or a side fence that a determined dog can jump is vital information for day one.
- “How do you prefer updates, and how often?”
- Why it matters: Aligning communication preferences early (e.g., a daily photo text vs. a weekly email check-in) ensures owners can relax without feeling spammed or left in the dark.