Preparing Your Home for a Pet Sitter
When you're planning to leave your furry friend in the care of a professional pet sitter, it's essential to make their home as comfortable and safe as possible before you leave. Proper preparation involves a bit of thought and planning, but it will go a long way in ensuring your pet's well-being. It will also set your pet sitter up for success. Today we're discussing preparing your home for a pet sitter because sometimes pets get bored or nervous in your absence and get themselves into trouble.
Organize and Store Supplies
Food and other supplies: Make sure you have enough food, water, litter, and supplements to last your pet's entire stay plus a few days. Store it in a cool, dry place.
Medication: If your pet takes any medication, ensure it's easily accessible and clearly labeled. Keep medication stored where your pet cannot reach it, especially if it's a chewable version. Dogs can and will tear open pill jars if their contents smell tasty enough, which can lead to an overdose and medical emergency.
Leashes, collars, and harnesses: Keep these items in a designated area so your sitter can easily find them. If your pet wears a harness that is difficult to put on, send the harness brand and instructions to your pet sitter before your departure.
Toys: Provide a variety of toys to keep your pet entertained. Rotate them to prevent boredom by using a toy basket or bin. Discard broken toys and filling.
Pee Pads: If your pet uses pee pads for potty training or incontinence, leave extras for us to use once the existing supply is soiled. Disposable options are best for this purpose because pet sitting visits usually aren't long enough for a whole washer cycle.
Tip: We like clear storage bins for this because they allow your pet sitter to see what's inside but won't allow your pet to reach it. Clear bins come in varying sizes and can contain food, pills, supplements, extra toys and supplies, etc. Place items inside and cover with an air-tight lid. Leave the bin somewhere that your pet sitter can readily see and access it like a kitchen counter.
Put Potential Toxins Away
Cleaning supplies: Store all cleaning products and chemicals in a secure location out of reach of your pet.
Plants: Some plants are toxic to pets. Research any plants in your home and move them to an area that your pet cannot access during your trip.
Medications: Keep human medications and other harmful substances locked away.
Leave Out Doggy Towels and Cleaning Supplies
Doggy towels: Having extra doggy towels on hand can be helpful for accidents or muddy paws.
Cleaning supplies: Provide basic cleaning supplies, such as a broom, dustpan, all-purpose cleaner, and enzymatic spray for us if needed. Please only leave pet-safe products as these cleaners will inevitably be used in your pet's presence.
Use Calming Pheromones
Diffusers: Consider using a diffuser with calming pheromones to help your pet feel more relaxed and secure while you're away. These pheromones can be especially beneficial for anxious pets but benefit all pets. We really like the plug-ins that last for thirty days.
Update Client and Pet Profile
Update Your Client information: Ensure that contact information and home care instructions are up-to-date in our scheduling software, Time to Pet.
Alert Your Emergency Contacts: Let your emergency contacts know that you have listed them as such. Leave an itinerary with them so they know your plans and dates during which they may be called upon.
Check Your Pet profile: Review and update your pet's profile, including their breed, age, weight, medical history, and behavioral quirks. Verify that their feeding instructions, medication type and dosage, etc. are listed in detail.
Communicate Travel Plans & Itinerary: Especially if you're traveling internationally, let us know your departure and return information. That way, we know where to look if something ties you up. Also, let us know how to reach you abroad and contact us once you're back home.
By following these tips, you can create a welcoming and safe environment for your pet sitter, helping to ensure that your furry friend receives the best possible care while you're away.
Hearts at Home Pet Sitting offers in-home dog walking and pet sitting services in Yorktown, Poquoson, Newport News, and Hampton, Virginia. To register your pet(s) or home with us, please complete a new client questionnaire here. Existing clients may request services here. Those outside our service area are encouraged to find a pet sitter near you at the Pet Sitters International or National Association of Professional Pet Sitters websites.
Please visit our website or contact us by email at Hello@HeartsAtHomePetSitting.com or by phone at 757-745-9868 to learn more. We look forward to caring for your pets while you enjoy your time away!
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