Where to look
- Recommendations from your vet, groomer or neighbors
- Pet sitting apps and websites with reviews
- Professional pet sitter associations in your area
- Trusted friends or family who know your pet
Questions to ask
- How long have you been pet sitting, and with what kinds of animals?
- Are you insured or bonded?
- Can you give medications? Have you done it before?
- What would you do in an emergency?
- How often will you visit, and how long will each visit be?
- Will you send updates or photos?
- Do you have references I can contact?
Do a meet-and-greet
Have the sitter visit before your trip. Watch how they interact with your pet and how your pet responds. If you can, book a short trial visit while you're only gone for a day.
What to leave your sitter
- Feeding amounts and times
- Medications, doses and how to give them
- Your pet's routine, habits and fears
- House notes: keys, alarm, where supplies are
- Your vet, the nearest emergency vet, and your contact details
- Written permission for the sitter to get emergency care
Putting it all on one sheet means your sitter never has to text you to ask.
Going away? Leave clear instructions.
Our printable pet sitter sheet covers feeding, meds, routines and emergency contacts in minutes.
Try the numbers for your pet
Our free pet cost calculator works it out in seconds. No sign-up.
Open the calculatorQuestions people ask
How much does a pet sitter cost?
It depends on where you live and the service. Drop-in visits and overnight stays are priced differently. Ask several sitters for quotes and compare.
Is a pet sitter better than boarding?
Many pets are calmer at home with their usual routine, especially cats and older pets. Boarding can work well for social dogs. It depends on your pet.
What should I leave for a pet sitter?
Feeding and medication instructions, the daily routine, emergency contacts, your vet's details and written permission for emergency care.
Save this for later.
Pin it to your pet board so it's there when you need it.
The Paw Plan shares general information, not veterinary advice. Every pet is different, so check with your vet about your pet's health, diet and care.
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Read the guide →One easy pet-care tip a week.
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