How to Prepare for a Pet Sitter: Checklist

Updated October 13, 2026 · 2 min read · 3 sources

Short answer

To prepare for a pet sitter, book early, do a meet-and-greet, and leave a written pet profile with feeding amounts, medication, routines and quirks; your contact details, your vet's details and an emergency contact; a signed authorization for veterinary care; enough food, litter and supplies for the whole trip plus extra; and notes on your home such as keys, alarm codes and off-limits areas.

A sitter can only follow the routine you explain. A little preparation prevents most problems.

Before you book

  • [ ] Book early. Chewy notes many sitters book weeks or months ahead, especially for summer and holidays; last-minute may need 1–2 weeks' notice.
  • [ ] Vet the sitter (insurance, background check, references). See is it safe to hire a pet sitter.
  • [ ] Do a meet-and-greet at home so your pets meet the sitter and you walk through the routine.
  • [ ] Sign a written contract with dates, services and payment terms.

The pet profile sheet

  • [ ] Each pet's name, photo, age, breed and microchip number
  • [ ] Food type, amounts and feeding times
  • [ ] Treats allowed (and not allowed)
  • [ ] Medications: name, dose, time, how to give it
  • [ ] Walk or exercise routine
  • [ ] Litter box location and cleaning routine
  • [ ] Hiding spots, fears and quirks (doorbell, thunderstorms, escape artists)
  • [ ] Health conditions and what to watch for
  • [ ] Behavior with other animals and people

Contacts and authorizations

  • [ ] Your phone number and travel details
  • [ ] An emergency contact nearby
  • [ ] Your regular vet and the nearest 24-hour emergency hospital
  • [ ] A signed note authorizing veterinary care and how much you approve spending
  • [ ] Vaccine records

Supplies

  • [ ] Enough food for the whole trip plus a few extra days
  • [ ] Medications plus extra
  • [ ] Litter, bags, leash, harness, carrier
  • [ ] Cleaning supplies for accidents
  • [ ] Pet first-aid basics

The house

  • [ ] Keys or door codes, and alarm instructions
  • [ ] Wi-Fi, thermostat and any off-limits rooms
  • [ ] Where breakers, the water shut-off and flashlights are
  • [ ] Mail, plants or trash day, if included

For fish and small pets

Pre-portion fish food into daily containers to prevent overfeeding, and do a partial water change a few days before you leave. See how long fish can go without food.

The day you leave

  • [ ] Walk through the routine one more time
  • [ ] Confirm when the first visit is
  • [ ] Ask for an update after the first visit

Find pet sitters near you.

Sources

  1. Chewy: How to find a trustworthy, reliable pet sitter (2025)
  2. Pet Sitters International: Tips for interviewing a professional pet sitter
  3. SF SPCA: Selecting a boarding facility

Find pet sitters & dog walkers near you

Need someone to walk your dog, feed your cat or stay with your pets at home? Compare local pet sitters and dog walkers by Google rating, reviews and opening hours below.

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This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary, legal or financial advice. Prices vary by city and clinic; always ask your veterinarian or provider about your own pet.

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