Knowing your home and pets are in good hands is one of the best feelings in the world. But getting to that point (the actual preperation part) can feel a little overwhelming if you haven't done it before.

The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. And once you've done it once, you'll have a system that makes every trip after that so much easier. Here's everything worth covering before you hand over the keys — organised by category so nothing gets missed.

Pet Care & Routines

This is the most important section for most pet parents — and the one where details really matter. Your sitter can only care for your pet the way you do if they actually know how you do it.

• Daily schedule — walk times, feeding times, play sessions, bedtime routine.

• Food portions — exactly how much, how often, and any foods to avoid.

• Favourite spots — where they sleep, where they like to hang out, any no-go zones.

• Quirks and preferences — do they need the TV on? A specific toy at bedtime?

• Exercise needs — how far, how often, and whether they're allowed off-lead.
  

Why it matters: Pets feel your absence most in the disruption of their routine. The more your sitter knows, the more your pet's days can feel completely normal while you're away.

Home Security

A lived-in home is a secure home — but your sitter needs the right information to keep things running smoothly and safely.

• Keys and access — how many sets, which doors they open, and any tricky locks.

• Alarm codes — entry/exit codes, how to arm/disarm, and what to do if it goes off accidentally.

• External cameras — let your sitter know if you have them and where they're positioned.

• Neighbours to know — anyone they should be aware of or a trusted neighbour they can call on.

• Bin days — which bins go out when (your sitter will thank you for this one!).

Why it matters: Your sitter is your home's best security asset while you're away — but only if they have everything they need to manage it confidently.

Emergency Contacts & Vet Details

Hopefully, none of this gets used — but having it ready means your sitter can act quickly and calmly if something unexpected happens.

• Your Vet details — name, address, and phone number.

• After-hours emergency vet — often a different clinic is required outside business hours.

• A trusted local contact — someone nearby who knows your pet and can help in a pinch.

• Insurance details — policy number and provider.
  

Why it matters: In a genuine emergency, your sitter shouldn't have to go searching for this information. Having it all in one place means faster, calmer decision-making.

Food & Medications

If your pet has any dietary needs or medical requirements, this section needs to be crystal clear — no room for guesswork.

• Feeding instructions — brand, portion size, and method (dry mixed with wet?).

• Medications — name, dosage, timing, and exactly how to administer (hidden in food?).

• Signs to watch for — any symptoms that would indicate something is off.

Why it matters: Medications especially need to be followed exactly. A clear guide means no missed doses and total peace of mind.

House Manual Essentials

Think of this as a friendly guide to living in your home. It doesn't need to be elaborate — just enough to help your sitter feel at home.

• Wifi details — network name and password.

• Appliance instructions — anything with a learning curve (smart TVs, temperamental ovens).

• Plants — which ones need watering, how often, and how much.
  

Why it matters: The less your sitter has to figure out on their own, the more energy they can put into caring for your pets.

Communication Preferences

Every pet parent is different. Neither is wrong, but it's worth being upfront about what would actually help you relax.

• Update frequency — daily photos, or just a quick text every couple of days?

• Best times to reach you — especially important if you're crossing time zones.

Why it matters: Clear expectations set everyone up for a stress-free sit.

Grab your free checklist

We've turned everything above into a simple, printable checklist you can fill in before every trip — so nothing gets missed and handovers feel easy.

[Download the Free House Sitter Prep Checklist →]

A note from us

We ask every family we sit for to work through something similar before we arrive — it's one of the reasons our sits tend to go so smoothly. The more we know going in, the more your pet's life can feel completely normal while you're off enjoying yours.

If you'd like to chat about an upcoming trip, we'd love to hear from you.

[Get in touch →]

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