As a pet owner, leaving your furry friend behind while you're away can be stressful. That's why hiring a pet sitter is a great option to ensure your pet receives the care and attention they need. However, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both your pet and the sitter, it's essential to provide clear instructions on how to care for your pet. Here are five essential pet sitter instructions to follow:
Leaving your pet with a sitter can be a daunting experience, especially if it's your first time. You want to make sure your pet is in good hands and that the sitter knows exactly how to care for them. By providing detailed instructions, you can ensure your pet's specific needs are met, and the sitter is well-equipped to handle any situation that may arise.

1. Provide Detailed Information About Your Pet's Diet
Your pet's diet is crucial to their health and well-being. It's essential to inform the sitter about the type of food your pet eats, the quantity, and the frequency of feeding. If your pet has any food allergies or sensitivities, be sure to mention this as well. You should also provide information on any treats your pet is allowed to have and how often they can be given.
For example, you can leave a note with the following information:
- Food type: [Brand name] dog food
- Feeding schedule: 1 cup of food twice a day
- Treats: [Brand name] dog biscuits, 2-3 times a day
Additional Tips:
- Leave a list of emergency contact numbers, including your veterinarian and a nearby animal hospital.
- Inform the sitter about any specific feeding instructions, such as mixing food with water or adding supplements.
- Provide a map or directions to the nearest pet store or veterinary clinic in case of an emergency.
2. Inform the Sitter About Your Pet's Medication and Health Issues
If your pet takes medication or has any health issues, it's crucial to inform the sitter. This includes any allergies, chronic conditions, or ongoing medical treatments. Be sure to provide the sitter with a list of medications, including the dosage and frequency, as well as any relevant medical history.
For example, you can leave a note with the following information:
- Medication: [Medication name], 1 tablet twice a day
- Health issues: [Condition name], requires regular monitoring and treatment

Additional Tips:
- Provide a list of emergency contact numbers, including your veterinarian and a nearby animal hospital.
- Inform the sitter about any specific medical equipment or supplies needed to care for your pet.
- Leave a copy of your pet's medical records and vaccination history.
3. Leave Instructions for Exercise and Playtime
Exercise and playtime are essential for your pet's physical and mental health. Inform the sitter about your pet's exercise routine, including the type of exercise, duration, and frequency. You should also provide information on any toys or equipment needed for playtime.
For example, you can leave a note with the following information:
- Exercise routine: 30-minute walk twice a day
- Playtime: 1 hour of playtime with toys and treats
Additional Tips:
- Provide a list of safe areas for exercise and playtime, such as parks or dog parks.
- Inform the sitter about any specific toys or equipment needed for playtime, such as leashes or harnesses.
- Leave a copy of your pet's vaccination history and health records.
4. Inform the Sitter About Your Pet's Grooming Needs
Grooming is an essential part of your pet's health and hygiene. Inform the sitter about your pet's grooming needs, including nail trimming, brushing, and bathing. Be sure to provide information on any specific grooming equipment or supplies needed.
For example, you can leave a note with the following information:
- Grooming needs: Nail trimming every 2 weeks, brushing twice a week
- Grooming equipment: Nail clippers, brush, shampoo

Additional Tips:
- Provide a list of emergency contact numbers, including your veterinarian and a nearby animal hospital.
- Inform the sitter about any specific grooming instructions, such as using a specific shampoo or conditioner.
- Leave a copy of your pet's grooming history and any relevant medical records.
5. Leave Contact Information and Emergency Instructions
Finally, it's essential to leave contact information and emergency instructions for the sitter. This includes your phone number, email address, and any emergency contact numbers. You should also provide information on what to do in case of an emergency, such as a power outage or natural disaster.
For example, you can leave a note with the following information:
- Contact information: [Your phone number], [Your email address]
- Emergency instructions: In case of a power outage, please contact [Emergency contact number]
Additional Tips:
- Provide a list of emergency contact numbers, including your veterinarian and a nearby animal hospital.
- Inform the sitter about any specific emergency procedures, such as evacuation routes or emergency shelters.
- Leave a copy of your pet's medical records and vaccination history.
By following these five essential pet sitter instructions, you can ensure your pet receives the care and attention they need while you're away. Remember to provide detailed information about your pet's diet, medication, exercise, grooming, and emergency instructions. With these instructions, you can enjoy your time away knowing your pet is in good hands.
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