First-Time Pet Sitter Checklist: How to Prepare Your Home
Using a pet sitter for the first time can feel like a big step. A little preparation means your pet stays happy, your sitter has everything they need, and you can relax while you're away. Work through this checklist in the weeks and days before.
Two to four weeks before
Book early, especially for school holidays, Christmas and bank holidays.
Arrange a Meet & Greet so your pet meets the sitter on home ground and you can walk through the routine together.
Check vaccinations, flea and worm treatment are up to date, and that your microchip details have your current phone number.
Keys and access
Decide on a spare key or a key safe, and share any code privately, never on social media or in a public message.
Write down alarm codes, tricky locks, which doors stick and where the fuse box and stopcock are.
Give a spare key to a trusted neighbour or backup contact in case of emergencies.
Food and routine
Leave enough food for the whole stay plus a few days extra in case of travel delays.
Write down amounts, times, treats allowed and any foods to avoid. Measuring cups or pre-portioned bags help.
Describe the daily rhythm: walk times, where your pet sleeps, favourite games, and any words or cues they know.
Health and behaviour
Leave medication with clear dosing notes and a little extra. Show your sitter how you give it, especially for tablets hidden in food or ear drops.
Share your vet's details, insurance number and written consent for treatment.
Be honest about quirks: escape artists, reactivity to other dogs, fear of fireworks or the hoover, or a cat who hides from strangers. It helps your sitter keep everyone safe.
Kit to leave out
Leads, harness, poo bags, towels for muddy paws, cat litter and spare bags, toys, bedding, and a pet carrier in case of a vet trip. Keep them together in one spot.
Around the house
Bin and recycling days, Wi-Fi password, heating and hot water instructions, plants to water, and any rooms your pet shouldn't go in.
Clear away anything risky: open bins, medicines, chocolate and cables that tempt chewers.
On the day
Keep goodbyes short and calm, which helps your pet settle.
Share your travel dates, where you'll be and how best to reach you, plus a backup contact.
Let your sitter know how often you'd like updates. Seren sends Pupdates with photos so you can see how your pet is getting on.
Print our free Pet Care Sheet and leave it on the kitchen side.