Preparing your pet for pet sitting services is a crucial step to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for both your furry companion and their caregiver. At Bay Area Pet Pals, we understand the importance of making this transition as comfortable as possible. Introducing your pet to their sitter beforehand, along with providing familiar items like a piece of clothing with your scent, helps ease any anxiety they may feel in your absence. By sharing important details such as routines, medical needs, and preferred supplies, you can help us give your pet the best possible care while you’re away. Here’s a guide on how to prepare your pet for pet sitting services with Bay Area Pet Pals, ensuring peace of mind for you and comfort for your pet.
Introductions
Having your pet(s) meet with your pet sitter ensures that they will not be shocked or frightened when service begins. While you are away, it is good to leave an article of clothing that you’ve recently worn near where your pet sleeps as a reminder of you. Sometimes a scarf or other item with your scent can be worn by the pet sitter to further calm a nervous pet. Bay Area Pet Pals will ask you to fill out Pet Information Sheets in order to best serve you and your pet.
Pet Schedules
Cats and dogs know when their owners are gone, so keeping them on the same routine helps them feel more at ease while you’re away. Put out clean food and water bowls for your pet’s use. If there are there certain foods that your pet definitely cannot eat for whatever reason, or if your pet is on a special diet, please inform your pet sitter.
Pet Supplies
Ensure that there will be enough food, treats, kitty litter, and favorite toys for the time that you will be away. Specify any preferred name or brand of food and treats. Leave this information in a handy location in case you didn’t have time to buy food before you left, or in case your trip is unexpectedly extended. Let your pet sitter know: where your dog’s leash is kept, if you have a carrier for your pet, information about pet bedding, tanks, cages, food bowls, and your pet’s health care products. Place any cleaning supplies where they can easily be found if needed, but out of the reach of pets.
Veterinarian Information
Provide and display the name and phone number of your vet in a prominent place. Include the name and phone number of your regular vet and an emergency vet. Notify your pet sitter of the following for your pet(s): medical history, immunization records, microchip or any other identification information, medications, any minor health problems or phobias, or if your pet has ticks or fleas. You will be asked to fill out a Veterinarian Release Form for your pet.
Medications
If your pet is on medication, notify your pet sitter ahead of time and provide a list, as well as the schedule for taking them. A Pet Medication Authorization Form will need to be filled out for your pet sitter or dog walker. For multiple pets on medication, it can be helpful to place each day’s separate doses in labeled pill organizers or snack sized plastic bags marked with permanent marker to show: Pet’s name, time to give medication, date, and amount.
Preparing your pet and your home for pet sitting services with Bay Area Pet Pals is key to ensuring their comfort and well-being while you’re away. By following these steps, from introducing your pet to their sitter to sharing important information about their routine, supplies, and medical needs, you’ll create a positive and stress-free experience for both your pet and their caregiver.
If you have any questions or need further assistance in preparing your pet, don’t hesitate to Contact Us. We are here to help and ensure that your pet receives the best care possible. Reach out to us today for any concerns or additional guidance!
