Free Printable Dog Sitter Checklist for Traveling Pet Parents

Are you a pet parent looking for a great way to make sure your best friend is well cared for while you are away? A good idea before you go is to have all your pet information in one convenient printable dog sitter checklist instructions packet. Keep reading to grab your free pet sitter printable today!

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Heading out of town but worried about leaving your four-legged best friend behind?

We get it—dogs are family, and making sure they’re in good hands is a top priority.

That’s why we’ve created a dog sitter checklist to take the stress out of being away.

Whether your pup is a couch cuddler or a ball-chasing pro, this handy printable will make sure your dog’s care is as smooth as a belly rub.

From feeding times to emergency contacts (and even those hilarious quirks your dog has), this checklist will help you stay organized and give your sitter everything they need to keep tails wagging while you’re gone.

Because happy dogs = happy pet parents!

So, are you ready to grab your free printable dog sitter checklist? Great! Let’s get into it!

What is the best way to plan ahead for a pet sitter?

Planning ahead for a pet sitter starts with being as prepared and detailed as possible.

Start by jotting down your dog’s daily routine, including feeding times, walk schedules, and play preferences.

Gather all the supplies your sitter will need, like food, treats, leashes, medications, and favorite toys, and keep them in an easily accessible spot.

Be sure to print out a dog sitter checklist (like the free one we’ve included!) to make sure no detail is left behind.

With a little planning, you can set your sitter up for success and ensure your pup gets the top-notch care they deserve.

What is the best way to prepare my pet’s information for the pet sitter?

The best way to prepare your pet’s information for a sitter is to organize everything in one convenient place.

Start by creating a document or using a checklist that covers the essentials: feeding instructions, potty schedules, medication dosages, and your dog’s quirks (like their love for belly rubs or fear of vacuum cleaners).

Include important details like your vet’s contact info, an emergency contact number, and your preferred method of communication.

Label your pet’s food, treats, and medications clearly, and ensure their supplies—like leashes, poop bags, or favorite toys—are easy to find.

If your dog has any specific commands or training cues, jot those down too!

What is the most important emergency information to include in the printable dog sitter checklist?

When it comes to emergency information, the more thorough, the better!

Be sure to include your veterinarian’s contact details (name, address, phone number) and the nearest 24-hour emergency animal clinic, just in case.

Add your pet’s microchip number and registration info, along with any health insurance policy details if applicable.

It’s also important to list allergies or medical conditions and how to handle them in an emergency.

Don’t forget an emergency contact—someone local who can step in if needed—and your preferred method of communication during an urgent situation.

Clear instructions about what to do if your dog gets loose or injured will give the sitter the confidence to act quickly.

What are some of the important daily routine notes to include in the printable dog sitter checklist?

Daily routine notes are key to keeping your dog happy and stress-free while you’re away.

Be sure to include details like feeding times, portion sizes, and any specific dietary preferences or restrictions.

Note your dog’s potty schedule and preferences, including where they like to go and any cleanup instructions.

Add their usual walk times, routes, and leash etiquette, especially if they have triggers like barking at squirrels or pulling when excited.

Don’t forget playtime specifics—favorite toys, games, or how long they typically like to play.

If your dog takes medications, provide exact times and dosages.

Finally, include any bedtime routines, such as where your pup sleeps, if they need a blanket, or any soothing rituals to help them wind down.

What kind of medication and medical information should be included on a printable dog sitter checklist?

Your dog sitter checklist should include detailed and easy-to-follow information about any medications your dog needs.

List each medication’s name, the dosage, and the exact times it should be given.

Include instructions on how to administer it—whether it’s hidden in a treat, mixed with food, or applied topically—and any tips for making the process easier.

Highlight any allergies, ongoing medical conditions, or symptoms your sitter should watch for, like signs of an allergic reaction or discomfort.

Don’t forget to include your veterinarian’s contact information, the address and phone number of the nearest emergency vet, and any health insurance policy details if applicable.

What kind of daily exercise information should be provided on a printable dog sitter checklist?

When it comes to daily exercise, your dog sitter checklist should outline everything your pup needs to stay active and happy.

Include details about your dog’s walking routine, such as the preferred time, length, and route of their walks.

If your dog has leash quirks—like pulling or reacting to other dogs—be sure to note that, too.

Mention whether your dog enjoys off-leash play, and specify safe areas for this, like fenced yards or dog parks.

Include favorite activities, such as fetch, tug-of-war, or agility exercises, and note any restrictions, such as avoiding high-impact play for senior dogs or limiting running for those with medical issues.

What are some house and yard rules that should be included in the printable dog sitter checklist?

When it comes to dog sitting, it’s important to have all the details about your pup and their house and yard rules. 

For example:

• Are they allowed on the bed, couch, or chair?
• What is the best way to let them in the yard?
• What type of lead is used?
• Is there an invisible fence?

By providing all this information up front, you can ensure that your dog sitter has all the important information they need to provide the best possible care for your furry friend.

What kind of cleaning instructions should be included on the printable dog sitter checklist?

Cleaning instructions are important to keep your home tidy and your dog healthy while you’re away.

Include specific details about your dog’s food and water bowls—how often to wash them and what to use (dishwasher-safe, hand wash only, etc.).

If your dog sheds a lot, provide guidance on where to clean up fur and how frequently to vacuum or use lint rollers, especially in common areas.

If your dog is crate-trained or has a specific sleeping area, include cleaning instructions for that space—how often to freshen it up and what to do with bedding (like changing it or washing it).

If your dog has accidents or messes, note where cleaning supplies are kept (such as enzyme cleaners for potty accidents) and how to clean up thoroughly to avoid odors.

Don’t forget to mention any toys or items your dog uses that need occasional cleaning to keep them safe and hygienic.

What information should be given to the pet sitter regarding chew toys and play?

When it comes to chew toys and play, your sitter should know your dog’s preferences to ensure safe and enjoyable activities.

Start by listing your dog’s favorite chew toys—whether it’s a rubber bone, a squeaky toy, or a tough chew toy—and any toys that should be avoided due to wear or safety concerns (e.g., toys that break easily or pose a choking hazard).

If your dog has any special rules for chewing, like not chewing on furniture or shoes, be sure to note that as well.

For playtime, include details about your dog’s favorite games—fetch, tug-of-war, hide and seek, or chasing bubbles—along with how long your dog typically enjoys playing.

If your dog has a favorite time of day for play or a preferred playmate (human or canine), let your sitter know.

You might also want to include whether your dog enjoys calm, slow-paced activities like puzzle toys or prefers more energetic play.

Final Thoughts

Leaving your furry family member in someone else’s care can feel like a big leap, but with this free printable dog sitter checklist, you can rest easy knowing everything your sitter needs is right at their fingertips.

From feeding schedules to quirky habits, this checklist ensures that your pup’s routine stays as consistent as possible, even while you’re away.

Whether you’re heading out for a quick weekend trip or an extended vacation, this little tool will make life easier for you, your sitter, and most importantly—your dog.

Because let’s face it, we all know who the real boss is around here (hint: it’s the one with the wagging tail).

Download the checklist, fill it out, and leave your worries at the door.

Your dog will feel the love, even when you’re not home. After all, they deserve nothing less than paw-some care!

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Please be sure to download our free printable dog sitter checklist below to grab your copy!

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Your Turn 

Are you planning a trip soon? Do you have any additional tips to share for hiring a pet sitter? Are you grabbing your free printable dog sitter checklist? Let me know in the comments.

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