Contacts
- Your phone number and where you'll be
- A local backup person with a spare key
- Your vet's name, address and phone number
- The nearest 24-hour emergency vet
- Poison control for pets: ASPCA Animal Poison Control, (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply)
Food and medicine
- What, how much and when your pet eats
- Treat rules
- Medications: name, dose, time and how to give them
- Foods your pet must never have
Routine
- Walk and potty times, and how your dog is on a leash
- Litter box cleaning schedule
- Where your pet sleeps and any bedtime routine
- Fears or triggers (thunder, doorbells, other dogs)
House notes
- Where supplies are kept
- Doors and gates that must stay closed
- Wi-Fi password and thermostat settings
Before you leave
- Stock enough food and meds for your trip plus a few extra days.
- Check that your pet's ID tag and microchip info are current.
- Tell your vet who is caring for your pet, and consider leaving written permission for treatment.
- Do a short trial visit with a new sitter before the trip.
Going away? Leave clear instructions.
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Questions people ask
What should I leave for a pet sitter?
Your contact info, a backup contact, your vet and the nearest emergency vet, feeding and medication instructions, the daily routine, and notes about the house.
How much food should I leave for a pet sitter?
Enough for the whole trip plus a few extra days in case of travel delays.
Should I tell my vet I'm going away?
It's a good idea. Some owners also leave written permission for the sitter to authorize treatment and a way to pay.
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The Paw Plan shares general information, not veterinary advice. Every pet is different, so check with your vet about your pet's health, diet and care.