Vacation Pet Care Checklist: How to Prepare for a Pet Sitter

Posted on March 23th, 2025
Heading out of town? Whether you’re planning a beach escape or a weekend getaway, leaving your pets behind can feel stressful — unless you’ve got the right systems (and sitter) in place.
Here at Playtime Adventures, I offer dog walking, drop ins, cat care, etc in Portsmouth, NH & the Seacoast and I know exactly what it takes to keep pets safe and happy while you’re away.
📝 Pre-Vacation Pet Care Checklist
1. Emergency Contact Info
Include your vet’s info, preferred emergency clinic, and a local contact who can help if needed.
2. Feeding Instructions
Clear feeding guidelines, treat preferences, and food allergies — bonus if you pre-portion meals!
3. Medication Guide
Label all medications clearly with dosage instructions and times. Let your sitter know if there are tricks to administering them.
4. House Access Instructions
Spare keys, codes, alarm systems, or gates — give us a cheat sheet to ensure smooth access.
5. Daily Routine & Preferences
Does your dog love snuffle mats? Does your cat hate the vacuum? I personalize care based on the instructions you provide.
6. Behavior Notes
Tell your sitter about quirks, fears (e.g., thunderstorms, strangers), or reactivity so I can support your pet with informed care.
7. Extras
- Poop bags, leashes, litter, and cleaning supplies
- Plant watering or package retrieval if requested
- Clear notes on where to find towels, toys, or backup supplies
Bonus Tip: Use Time To Pet — our online portal — to update care instructions, message me, and receive daily updates while you’re away!
Ready to book worry-free pet sitting? Reach out to Playtime Adventures and travel with total peace of mind.
Fill out the form below and I'll be in contact with you as soon as possible! Looking forward to speaking with you!
