For House Owner
Proper preparation ensures a smooth experience for both you and the sitter, keeping your home and pets safe and well-cared-for while you're away. Think of welcoming your sitter as hosting a trusted friend of the family—creating a warm and comfortable environment helps build a great relationship and ensures a positive experience for everyone. A little effort in preparation goes a long way in making your sitter feel valued, which in turn leads to a happier home and well-cared-for pets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get ready:
1. Prepare Your Home
- Clean and Organize:
- Make sure your home is tidy before the sitter’s arrival: clean floors, wipe surfaces, and remove personal items from accessible areas.
- Ensure fresh linens and towels are ready for the sitter’s use.
- Stock Up on Essentials:
- Provide enough pet supplies, such as food, treats, and toys, to last the entire sit.
- Prepare cleaning supplies, trash bags, and any other household essentials.
- Ensure Everything Works:
- Check that all appliances (washing machine, heating, alarm systems) are in good working order.
- Ensure doors, windows, and locks are functional and secure.
2. Create a Detailed Pet Care Plan
- Daily Routine:
- Explain feeding schedules, walking routines, and playtime activities.
- Highlight any quirks or preferences your pet has (e.g., favorite toys, aversion to certain sounds).
- Medical Needs:
- Provide clear instructions for administering any medication.
- Leave your veterinarian’s contact details and any relevant pet insurance information.
- Emergency Preparedness:
- Outline steps to follow if your pet becomes ill or injured.
3. Provide Key Information for the Sitter
- Welcome Guide:
- Include important details such as:
- Wi-Fi password.
- Instructions for appliances.
- Emergency contact numbers (yours and a backup).
- Include important details such as:
- House Rules:
- Specify which areas are accessible to the sitter and which are off-limits.
- Clarify if the sitter can use your food and beverages or if they should bring their own.
- Provide guidelines regarding visitors.
- Household Tasks:
- Outline additional responsibilities like watering plants, collecting mail, or taking out the trash.
- Specify waste disposal and recycling procedures.
4. Prepare Keys and Access
- Home Access:
- Ensure the sitter has all necessary keys (front door, garage, mailbox).
- If your home has an alarm system, explain how to use it.
- Backup Key:
- Arrange for a neighbor or friend to hold a spare key in case of emergencies.
5. Plan for a Warm Welcome
- On the First Day:
- If possible, meet the sitter in person to give a home tour and answer any last-minute questions.
- Introduce the sitter to your pet and show them key areas like feeding, sleeping, and play zones.
- Appliance Demonstration:
- Show how to use essential appliances (e.g., washing machine, heating, security system).
6. Establish Communication
- Stay in Touch:
- Discuss how often you’d like updates from the sitter (e.g., daily photos or brief messages).
- Agree on your preferred method of communication (phone, email, messaging apps).
7. Avoid Common Pitfalls
- Professional Services:
- Do not request tasks outside the scope of home and pet care, such as repairs or administrative duties.
- Unclear Instructions:
- Avoid leaving details unaddressed. It’s better to clarify all expectations in advance.
Final Tips
A well-prepared home and clear instructions will make the sitter’s job easier and ensure your peace of mind. By providing all necessary information upfront, you set the stage for a successful and worry-free house sitting experience.