Before going out of town and leaving your pet in your pet sitter’s care, you’ll want to do a few things around your home to make sure everything is in order. Here are a few suggestions from PetsitUSA on how to ready your home, and your pet, for your time away.

Preparations for your pet

• Ensure that there will be enough food, treats, kitty litter, etc. for the time you will be away.
• Let your pet sitter know where your dog’s leash is kept.
• If you have a carrier for your pet, let your pet sitter know where it is kept.
• If your pet is on medication, notify your pet sitter ahead of time. Leave detailed instructions on its use, even if you tell your pet sitter verbally how it’s administered.
• Put ID tags on each of your pets.
• Provide outdoor pets with plenty of water, shelter, and a secure enclosure.
• Leave toys for your pet to play with while you’re away.

Preparations for your home

• Inform your pet sitter of anything that may be out of the ordinary (sinks that don’t drain properly, toilet that overflows, etc.).
• Show your pet sitter where the thermostat is and how to operate it. Be sure to leave it set at a comfortable temperature for your pets while you’re gone.
• If anyone will be in your home during your absence, let your pet sitter know. Because of safety concerns, many pet sitters will not enter a house if they see someone there.

Also, be aware that many pet sitting businesses will not accept jobs if they are requested to share pet care responsibilities with others, or if someone else will be in the home while they are caring for your pets.