Traveling Without Your Pet? How to Prep for a Pet Sitter

Whether you're heading out of town for work or play, leaving your pet behind can be stressful. But it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and a trusted professional pet sitter, your pet can enjoy a calm, comfortable stay at home while you’re away. Here's how to get ready and ensure your pet receives the best care possible.

1. Provide Clear Instructions

Leave written (or digital) instructions covering:

• Feeding and potty schedules

• Medication info

• Daily routines and behavior notes

• Household info like alarm codes, trash days, or plant care

• Emergency contacts, vet information, and your travel details

Clarity ensures smooth care and a happier pet!

2. Stock Up on Supplies

Before you go, double-check that you’ve left:

• Enough food, treats, and medications clearly labeled

• Poop bags, litter, and cleaning supplies

• Toys, beds, leashes, and comfort items

Plan for a few extra days' worth just in case.

3. Share Emergency Contacts

Provide your contact info, a local emergency contact, and vet information (including a 24/7 emergency vet nearby). We recommend having more than one emergency contact; someone local who can access the home in case the sitter does not (or cannot) arrive, someone you trust to take over the care of your pets if needed, and someone who can make medical decisions on your behalf. If your pet has insurance or a microchip, include that info too.

4. organize supplies

Set your home up comfortably with easy access to everything they’ll need. The biggest help is organizing the pet's supplies; meals, medication, and anything else. Are your pet's supplies usually in multiple locations in the home? Consider placing them all in one, easy to find location. We've got to admit... we love it when families take the initiative to portion out individual meals or medication doses before a trip. This helps keep communication clear and seamless every step of the way.

5. Agree on Communication

Set expectations for updates. Daily messages with photos and notes help ease your mind and keep you in the loop. You'd be surprised at the amount of caregivers who believe it's acceptable not to send regular updates. At Skyline Pet Care, we send detailed reports each time we are with your pet so you never have to wonder how they're doing. We also include some photos so you can feel as if though you're with us.

6. Travel with Confidence

A little preparation goes a long way toward a stress-free trip for you and your pet. With a reliable pet sitter and a solid plan, you can enjoy your time away knowing your furry friend is in loving hands.

Going out of town? Don’t leave your pet with just anyone.

Skyline Pet Care delivers reliable, professional pet sitting trusted by Houston’s pickiest pet parents.

👉 Spots fill fast. Book your consultation today.