How to Prepare Your Home for a Pet Sitter

When you’re getting ready to head out of town, finding the right pet sitter is only the first step. Just as important is making sure your home is ready to welcome them—and that your pets feel secure, safe, and cared for in your absence. Preparing your space ahead of time helps your sitter provide the best care possible while keeping your pets’ routines consistent and stress-free.

As a professional pet sitter, I’ve learned that a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you’re a first-time client or a seasoned traveler, this guide will walk you through everything you need to do to make your home pet-sitter ready.

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Start with a Detailed Meet & Greet

Before the sit even begins, schedule a meet and greet. This allows your pet sitter to:

• Get familiar with your pets
• Learn about their routines, personality, and any quirks
• Tour the areas of your home relevant to the visit (feeding stations, litter boxes, sleeping spots, etc.)
• Discuss any medications or special instructions

Organize Pet Supplies in One Place

Group together all essential pet supplies in one easy-to-access area. This includes:

• Food and treats
• Medications with clear instructions
• Leashes, collars, harnesses
• Litter, poop bags, or puppy pads
• Brushes, toys, and comfort items
• Cleaning supplies for accidents

Labeling everything is a great bonus, especially for new clients. It saves time and eliminates guesswork.

Write Out Daily Routines and Instructions

Even if you’ve discussed everything during your meet & greet, having a printed or written guide ensures consistency. Include:

• Feeding times and portions
• Walk schedules
• Playtime or enrichment routines
• Medications (what, when, how)
• Sleeping arrangements
• Any “house rules” for pets (e.g., no couch, gated areas)

The more detail, the better! Pet sitters love having a cheat sheet to refer back to.

Leave Emergency Contacts and Vet Info

Create a list and place it somewhere visible (fridge, counter, or pet binder). Include:

• Your contact info (and backup person if you’re unreachable)
• Veterinarian name, phone number, and address
• Emergency animal hospital contact
• Preferred neighbors or friends who can step in if needed

Bonus points if you add your pet’s microchip number and insurance info, if applicable.

Tidy and Secure the Home

No need for a deep clean—but make sure key areas are tidy and accessible:

• Clear counters and pet areas
• Put away hazards (small objects, cords, open trash bins)
• Check fences and gates for safety
• Ensure pet doors are secured (or left open intentionally)
• Replace old or faulty leashes, crates, or bowls

This helps avoid accidents and gives your sitter peace of mind.

Leave Lights On (Or Set Timers)

To maintain a sense of normalcy, especially if your sitter is doing drop-ins or overnight care:

• Leave a few lights on
• Set timers if you’ll be away long-term
• Provide extra batteries or flashlights in case of power outages

It’s a small gesture that adds to safety and comfort for both pets and sitter.

Provide Wi-Fi and House Access Info

Make sure your sitter can stay connected and access everything they need:

• Wi-Fi name and password
• Alarm codes or entry instructions
• Extra keys or garage door openers
• Notes on thermostat, light switches, or anything tricky to operate

Even better: leave a simple “Welcome” sheet with these details in one place.

Inform Neighbors or Building Management

If you live in a community with building security or close neighbors, give them a heads-up. It can help avoid misunderstandings and create an extra layer of support:

• Let trusted neighbors know a pet sitter will be coming and going
• Leave the sitter’s name and number with them
• Alert your doorman or front desk if applicable

Provide Notes for Unexpected Situations

We hope nothing goes wrong—but if it does, it helps to be prepared. Leave written instructions for:

• What to do if your pet becomes ill
• What to do if your travel is delayed
• Your preferences for emergency decisions (vet visits, medication, etc.)

Having these in writing empowers your sitter to make the right call if needed.

Leave a Thoughtful Note (Optional, but Appreciated!)

A small gesture like a handwritten note or thank-you card goes a long way. Some clients even leave a little snack or treat, but it’s never expected. More importantly:

• Leave your contact method (text preferred? email?)
• Let us know if you’ll check in, or if you’d like photo updates daily.

Final Thoughts

Clear communication is a win for everyone.

Preparing your home for a pet sitter isn’t just about convenience—it’s about creating a safe, welcoming environment for your pets while you’re away. The more we know and the more prepared your home is, the smoother everything will go.

At Direct Pet Sitting, we care for your pets like they’re our own. Thoughtful preparation on your part helps us deliver the exceptional care and peace of mind you deserve.

Ready to book your next sit? Reach out here or head to the Client Portal to get started.