How to prepare your home for a pet sitter

Published: 9 December 2025

Planning a holiday or need to be away from home? Some pets find kennels or catteries stressful, and for many, staying in their own home is the best option. A pet sitter can provide comfort, routine, and care while you’re away.

Finding the right sitter brings peace of mind – but before you hand over your keys, there’s plenty to consider. This guide will help you prepare your pet, your home, and your sitter for a smooth, stress-free experience.

 

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Getting your pet ready for their sitter

Even the most sociable pets may feel unsettled when their family leaves and a stranger arrives. Here’s how to make the transition easier:

    1. Start early with introductions

      • Arrange a meet-and-greet well before your trip.
      • Invite the sitter over multiple times if possible.
      • Consider having friends visit so your pet gets used to different people.

 

    1. Keep them healthy and comfortable

      Ensure your pet is up to date on:

      • Vaccinations and microchip details
      • Flea and worming treatments
      • Grooming (wash, claw trim, de-matting if needed)

 

    1. Make your exit low-key

      • Keep goodbyes calm and casual; avoid dramatic farewells.
      • For dogs, ask your sitter to take them for a walk while you leave — returning to an empty house can be less stressful.

 

  1. Leave something familiar

    • Place a worn T-shirt or blanket in their bed or favourite spot to comfort them.

 

Jack Russell dog sits by the door next to two packed suitcases waiting for the pet sitter to arrive.

Creating a pet care guide

A detailed pet care guide makes life easier for both your sitter and your pet. Include:

Daily routine and exercise

  • Wake-up and bedtime times
  • Where your pet sleeps
  • Walk schedules and routes
  • Playtime requirements
  • Training routine and off-lead permissions
  • Alone-time needs

 

White and grey lop eared house rabbits sits on the arm of a grey sofa in the living room.

Food and treats

  • Exact food type and portion sizes
  • Feeding times
  • Location of food storage
  • Dietary restrictions or allergies
  • Allowed treats

 

Personality and quirks

  • Behavioural traits or issues
  • Anxiety triggers and calming methods
  • Interaction with other pets or people
  • Favourite toys and activities
  • Restricted areas in the house

 

Health and medical information

  • Medications (purpose, dosage, administration)
  • Vet contact details
  • Immunisation records or pet passport
  • Microchip info
  • Pet insurance policy number
  • Upcoming appointments
  • Recent photo
  • Emergency backup contact
  • Instructions for covering emergency costs

 

A woman in a black shirt and blue jeans stands in the kitchen reading for pet food while being watched by a pet cat and two dogs.

Preparing your home

Make things simple and safe for your sitter with these steps:

Pet supplies checklist

Ensure you have plenty of:

  • Food and treats
  • Poo bags or cat litter
  • Medications
  • Grooming supplies (shampoo, brush, towels)
  • Leash, collar, harness
  • Bedding and comforters
  • Favourite toys
  • Pet carrier and ID tags

 

Household essentials

  • Cleaning supplies, hand soap, and bin bags
  • Bathroom cleaning products
  • Vacuum, duster, and general cleaning tools

Tip: Keep all supplies easily accessible so your sitter doesn’t need to search cupboards or rooms you’d prefer private.
Close-up of pet owner hoovering the floor with a cat lying on the floor in the background

The day before arrival

  • Clean your home thoroughly
  • Remove perishable food or make it clear your sitter can help themselves
  • Free up wardrobe and bathroom space for the sitter
  • Check WiFi and leave the password visible
  • Lock away hazardous items (chemicals, chocolate, medications)
  • Close off rooms your pet can’t access
  • Block escape routes (gaps, pet flaps, attic access)
  • Secure gates and fences
  • Place handover notes, keys, and supplies in an obvious spot

 

Essential house information

Leave clear instructions for your sitter, including:

  • WiFi password and router location
  • Appliance manuals and usage tips
  • Electrical panel and stopcock locations
  • Bin collection schedule and recycling rules
  • Spare key location
  • Plant watering schedule
  • Post collection
  • Parking instructions
  • House quirks

 

House rules

Be upfront about:

  • Visitors and socialising
  • Communication preferences while you’re away (daily updates, photos, only if issues)
  • End-of-sit arrangements

 

Alarms and security

  • Leave instructions for alarms and security systems
  • Explain any indoor/outdoor cameras and privacy arrangements

 

Emergency planning

  • Emergency vet contact info and directions
  • Backup contacts for neighbours or relatives
  • Spare keys with trusted contacts
  • Instructions for accidents or if your pet goes missing
  • Clear instructions on covering emergency costs

 

Arranging a pet sitter

Handing over care of your pet and home can feel daunting, but preparation makes it stress-free. Open communication ensures your sitter feels confident and your pet stays happy. Let your sitter know they can contact you anytime.

Pro tip: Download this printable pet sitter checklist for quick reference – your sitter will love it!

Now you can start your search for the perfect sitter and enjoy your time away, knowing your furry friend is in good hands.

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