Good pet care instructions turn your pet’s usual routine into a clear plan someone else can follow. Write down specific amounts, times, and steps rather than relying on memory or general directions. Include details about your pet’s behavior and what to do if plans change. Before you leave, review the notes with your sitter and make sure they can reach you and your veterinarian. A practical guide helps prevent confusion and supports consistent care.
Feeding and Fresh Water
List each food by name and describe the portion in a measurable way, such as a marked scoop, level cup, or number of cans. Note feeding times, where food is stored, and whether it should be served dry, softened, or mixed with anything. If your pet has treats, specify which ones are allowed and how many. Mention foods your pet must avoid.
Explain how to provide fresh water and where bowls are kept. If your pet uses a timed feeder or other equipment, include simple operating instructions and what to do if it stops working. Note any signs that should prompt a message to you, such as refusing food or repeated vomiting, and provide your preferred contact method.
Medication and Health Needs
For every medication, write the name, dose, schedule, and method of administration. Include whether it must be given with food, where it is stored, and any handling instructions from your veterinarian. Keep medications in their original labeled packaging when possible, and separate them clearly if your pet takes more than one.
Describe what to do if a dose is missed, spat out, or accidentally given twice. Do not ask a sitter to guess or change a dose; provide veterinary guidance for those situations. Include relevant allergies, ongoing conditions, mobility limits, and signs that need prompt attention. Leave the veterinarian’s phone number and clinic address with the instructions.
Walks, Toileting, and Behavior
Set out the usual walk schedule, preferred routes, and approximate length. Explain leash, harness, and equipment use, including where each item is stored. Note whether your pet should avoid other animals, busy roads, certain areas, or off-leash exercise. For cats and indoor pets, describe litter or toileting routines and how often supplies should be checked.
Describe your pet’s normal behavior and the situations that may cause stress, fear, or excitement. Include useful cues, how your pet responds to them, and what helps them settle. Mention habits such as door-dashing, guarding food, hiding, or discomfort with handling. Give clear steps for safe management rather than assuming the sitter will recognize a behavior.
Contacts and Home Essentials
Provide your mobile number, an alternative trusted contact, and your veterinarian’s details. If your regular clinic is closed, name the emergency veterinary clinic and explain how to get there. State who can approve treatment if you cannot be reached, and share any relevant authorization or payment arrangements directly with the clinic.
Add your travel dates, home access instructions, and where to find a carrier, first-aid supplies, cleaning products, and spare food. Include a simple plan for emergencies such as a lost key, power outage, or urgent evacuation. Keep instructions in one easy-to-find place, and leave a copy in a format your sitter can access while out with your pet.
Keep the instructions current, specific, and easy to scan. Review medication details, contact numbers, and access arrangements before each booking, then invite your sitter to ask about anything unclear. London Pet House Sitters can discuss your pet’s routine when you arrange care.