Home Preparation Checklist: Setting Up for Success (Printable checklist)

Pet Owner Home Preparation Checklist

1) Key info to share with your sitter

• Emergency contacts: your phone, a local backup, preferred vet, 24/7 emergency clinic
• Pet profile: age, breed, microchip, medical conditions, quirks, fears, bite history
• Daily routine: wake times, walks, play, feeding schedule and portions
• House rules: off‑limits rooms, furniture rules, noise or HOA quiet hours
• Security: alarm code, door locks, where cameras are located, mailbox access
• Wi‑Fi: network, password, where the router is
• Transport: leash location, carrier, car seat, local park routes
• Utilities: breaker panel, water shutoff, thermostat basics

2) Health and safety

• Vaccinations and parasite prevention up to date
• Medications labeled with dosage, timing, and “what to do if a dose is missed”
• Vet folder prepared: records, insurance details, consent to treat, payment method
• Pet ID tag readable and securely attached
• Safe zones set up: baby gates, crates, pens as needed
• Hazard sweep: plants, cords, small objects, toxic foods, cleaning supplies, trash
• Backyard secure: fence gaps fixed, gates latch, pool precautions
• Weather plan: booties, raincoat, heat/cold guidance

3) Supplies checklist

• Food: enough for full trip plus 3–5 extra days
• Treats and chews approved by you
• Bowls clean and in usual spots
• Litter or poop bags, scoop, liners, deodorizer
• Leashes, harnesses, collars fitted; ID and rabies tags attached
• Crate/bed, blankets, favorite toys
• Grooming: brush, wipes, shampoo, nail tools if applicable
• Cleaning kit: pet‑safe cleaner, paper towels, enzyme spray, laundry pods
• Medication and supplements with pill pockets or syringes
• Towels for muddy paws near entry

4) Home setup

• Tidy surfaces and floors to reduce ingestion hazards
• Set thermostat guidelines and show the sitter how to adjust
• Stock basics: hand soap, dish soap, sponges, trash bags, toilet paper
• Assign a guest bed or room, fresh linens and towels
• Clear fridge space if leaving pet food or meds that need chilling
• Label light switches if non‑obvious
• Provide spare keys and test them
• Show how to operate appliances needed for pet care

5) Written instructions (leave on the counter)

• Daily schedule with time blocks for feeds, meds, walks, play, bedtime
• Portion guide with measuring cup or scale reference
• Walk map: preferred routes, off‑limits areas, dog‑park rules
• Training cues you use and what they mean
• Red‑flag behaviors and how you handle them
• Alarm checklist for leaving/entering
• Trash/recycling days and where bins go
• Plants: watering schedule and quantities
• Deliveries: what’s expected and where to place packages

6) Handover day

• Do a joint walk or feeding so the sitter sees your routine
• Review medication administration and let the sitter practice once
• Test alarm and door codes together
• Confirm vet consent form and payment arrangements
• Verify contact preferences and update cadence
• Share a recent pet photo and note identifying marks
• Hand over parking info or visitor permits if needed

7) While you’re away

• Keep phone on for urgent issues, set Do Not Disturb exceptions for sitter
• Maintain time‑zone awareness for updates
• If plans change, notify the sitter as soon as possible
• Have a backup decision‑maker authorized for vet care

8) Return checklist

• Confirm your ETA a day in advance
• Ask for a quick debrief on appetite, stools, energy, and any incidents
• Inspect fence, leashes, and gear for wear or damage
• Recount food and meds to plan replacements
• Leave a review and note any improvements for next time

9) Optional nice-to-haves

• Local guide: vet, groomer, 24/7 emergency, park, rainy‑day routes
• Treat policy card: what’s allowed, daily limit
• Photo checklist: ask for one daily pic of food, walk, and bedtime
• Pet cam notes: where cameras are and how to disable if requested
• Tip jar of extras: spare keys, batteries, light bulbs, fuses

Copy and print this checklist, and you’re set for a safe, low‑stress sit.