Pet Sitter Handoff: Everything They Need to Know

Whether you're heading out for a weekend or a week-long vacation, leaving your pet behind comes with its own set of worries. Will they be okay? Did you explain everything? What if something goes wrong?

A clear, thorough handoff to your pet sitter solves most of this anxiety. When your sitter knows exactly what to do—and has everything they need to do it—you can actually relax and enjoy your trip.

Here's how to prepare a handoff that covers all the bases.

The basics: feeding and water

Start with the essentials. How and when does your pet eat?

Food details

• Type of food (brand, flavor, wet/dry)
• Amount per feeding
• Feeding times
• Where food is stored
• Any pre-meal rituals (mixing in water, warming it up)
• Location of bowls

Water

• How often to refresh water
• Preferred bowl or fountain
• Any quirks (prefers cold water, specific spot)

Treats

• What treats are allowed
• How many per day
• When treats are typically given (after walks, bedtime, training rewards)

If there are foods your pet absolutely cannot have, make sure that's clearly noted too.

Medications and health

If your pet takes any medications or supplements, write it all down in detail.

Daily medications

• Name of medication
• Dosage and timing
• How to administer (in food, pill pocket, syringe)
• Where medications are stored
• What happens if a dose is missed

Health conditions

• Any chronic conditions to be aware of
• Warning signs to watch for
• Allergies

Vet information

• Regular vet name, address, phone number
• Emergency vet clinic name and location
• Your pet's name as registered at the vet
• Authorization for emergency care (consider leaving a signed note)

Some people leave a credit card on file at the vet for emergencies. That's a personal choice, but it removes a barrier if something happens.

Daily routine

Pets thrive on routine. The closer your sitter can stick to normal patterns, the happier your pet will be.

Morning routine

• Wake-up time (approximately)
• First trip outside or litter box check
• Morning feeding time
• Playtime or cuddles

Daytime

• Walk schedule and duration
• Potty break frequency
• Nap preferences (crate, bed, sunny spot)
• Alone time tolerance

Evening routine

• Dinner time
• Evening walk or outdoor time
• Bedtime routine
• Where they sleep

Note any quirks: Does your dog need to go out one more time at 10pm? Does your cat get zoomies at midnight? Help your sitter know what's normal.

House rules and behavior

Every pet has their own personality and house rules.

Allowed and not allowed

• Can they be on furniture?
• Are certain rooms off-limits?
• Any counters or surfaces they shouldn't jump on?
• Do they have door-dashing tendencies?

Behavior notes

• Are they nervous around strangers?
• Do they bark at delivery people?
• Any triggers to avoid?
• Comfort items that help (favorite blanket, toy)

Training commands

• List commands they know
• Hand signals if applicable
• What rewards work best

If your pet has behavioral quirks—fear of thunder, anxiety with vacuums, strong prey drive—give your sitter a heads up.

The physical handoff

Make sure your sitter has access to everything they need.

Supplies to have ready

• Enough food for the duration plus extra
• All medications with clear labels
• Leash, harness, collar
• Waste bags
• Litter and scoop (for cats)
• Favorite toys
• Bedding and comfort items
• Cleaning supplies for accidents

Access and keys

• Keys or codes for entry
• Alarm codes if applicable
• Where to find backup supplies
• Trash day schedule (if they're staying at your place)

Your contact information

• Your phone number
• Alternate contact (family member or friend as backup)
• Where you'll be (in case of timezone differences)
• Best way to reach you

Emergency procedures

Hope for the best, plan for the worst.

If your pet escapes

• Recent photo of your pet (share digitally too)
• Microchip information
• Where they might go (favorite spots, neighbor's yards)
• Who to call (local shelters, animal control)

If your pet seems sick

• When to call you first vs. go straight to vet
• Location of carrier for transport
• Your authorization for emergency treatment

Some pet owners create a one-page emergency sheet that sitters can grab quickly if needed.

Making it easy for your sitter

A few extra touches make the experience better for everyone:

Write it down: Even if you've talked through everything, leave a printed summary. People forget details, and it's easier to check a sheet than to text you.

Do a practice run: If possible, have your sitter come over while you're home so your pet can meet them and you can walk through the routine together.

Don't overload: Your sitter doesn't need to replicate your pet's life perfectly. Focus on the essentials and note which things are flexible.

Show appreciation: A thank-you card, a small gift, or just a genuinely grateful message goes a long way.

Leaving with confidence

The best thing about a thorough handoff is the peace of mind it brings. You know your sitter has everything they need. Your pet's routine stays as normal as possible. And you can actually enjoy your trip without worrying every hour.

Browse our pet care templates for handoff checklists you can customize, or build your own in CheckYourList. Keep it updated as your pet's needs change, and you'll have a ready-to-go guide for every trip.

Here's to happy pets and worry-free travels.