When planning to leave your dog in the care of a pet sitter, whether it’s just for a few hours, a full day or an extended stay, it’s worth preparing in advance. Read our guide to learn how to make your dog’s time away from home as safe and stress-free as possible.
Some dogs are used to being around different people from a young age and are often cared for by friends, family or a regular pet sitter. These early positive experiences help them adapt more easily to new surroundings. Still, any change of place and caregiver can be stressful for a dog. Here’s what you can do to help your pup feel at ease in their temporary home as quickly as possible.
Table of Contents:
Initial Meeting
A meet and greet is the first contact between your dog and the future pet sitter. It gives the sitter a chance to learn more about your dog, talk with you about their routine and needs, and start building positive associations with the new place and person. When the time for separation comes, your dog will feel less anxious knowing the space is familiar and full of positive experiences and that you will be coming back.
Adaptation
If you are planning a longer trip or your dog is sensitive to change or has never stayed with someone unfamiliar, it is a good idea to arrange a short adaptation visit at the pet sitter’s home. This can help your dog gradually get used to the new environment and caregiver without you being present. In some cases, it may be helpful to consult a behaviorist for additional support.
Calming Support
For dogs who are particularly anxious, natural calming supplements may be useful. Be sure to talk to your vet in advance and test any products before the planned stay.
Meeting the Sitter’s Dog
If the pet sitter has a resident dog, an introduction is necessary. Arrange to meet in a neutral outdoor area and start with a calm walk with both dogs on leashes, slowly decreasing the distance based on their behavior. We will provide full guidance before the meeting to make the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible for both dogs and you.
The more your pet sitter knows about your dog, the better they can ensure a safe and comfortable stay.
Instructions
Be sure to provide the pet sitter with all important information and instructions for the duration of your dog’s stay. Here are some key details worth sharing:
Your Dog’s Personality
Describe your dog’s character and any behaviors the sitter should pay special attention to. Does your dog get along well with other dogs? Does it react in a specific way to certain objects or people? Is it afraid of storms or fireworks, and how do you usually help it calm down?
Some dogs are picky eaters, so skipping breakfast might be normal for them, while for others it can be a sign of discomfort. Is your dog a professional food thief, able to open cabinets or doors? Does it chew on toys, household items, or plants?
Habits and Daily Routine
Let the sitter know about your dog’s habits and preferences. What are its favorite activities and toys, preferred walking routes, and daily schedule including meal times, portion sizes, and walk durations? What does a typical day look like for your dog?
Being Alone
Staying alone in a new place may be more difficult for your dog than at home. If your dog is not used to being left alone and tends to get anxious, destroy things, bark, howl, relieve itself indoors, or excessively lick their fur during separation, it is very important that you inform us about this in advance.
Special Requirements
If your dog has specific needs, such as grooming instructions, medication requirements, or is currently undergoing training, make sure to clearly explain everything to the sitter.
Before leaving your dog in care, check whether their behavior is normal. Observe if they are more withdrawn or overly active than usual, if they’re having any issues with urination or defecation, or if they show a sudden change in appetite or daily habits. If you notice anything concerning, consult your vet. For senior dogs or those with chronic health conditions, it may be a good idea to run a check-up before the stay.
Pet Information Form
Please provide all the above details by carefully filling out our pet information form. This document will be a valuable source of knowledge for the pet sitter, so make sure to update it before every new stay.
Communication
While your dog is in our care, you will remain in touch with the sitter via a group chat, and, if needed, also with Golden Pets consultants. Make sure your phone number has been correctly added to the chat group. You’ll receive regular updates including photos, videos, and messages about your dog’s stay. Don’t hesitate to share additional information, point out specific behaviors, or ask how your dog is doing.
Providing an extra contact number for someone you trust in the same city is especially important in case you are unavailable.
Dog essentials
Every dog has their own unique needs and preferences, so make sure to tailor their travel bag to suit their personality. It’s always better to bring too much than to forget something important. Familiar items from home will help your dog feel safe and comfortable in the new environment.
Your dog’s essentials should include a health booklet with up-to-date vaccinations, enough food for the entire stay, and safe walking accessories. But don’t worry if you forget something or your trip unexpectedly gets extended — our team will do everything we can to take care of your pet. We can organize food, medications, a leash, bowls, or even arrange a vet visit if needed.
Saying Goodbye
Avoid rushing when it’s time to leave your dog with the sitter. A stressful goodbye can make your pet anxious, even though they’re about to enjoy a fun stay with a caring companion. Plan ahead so the handover can happen calmly and without pressure.
Try not to make the farewell too emotional. We know it’s hard to say goodbye to your furry friend, but heightened emotions can make separation more difficult for your dog. Stay calm and act naturally as you pass them into the sitter’s care. Our pet sitter will do everything to make your dog’s stay pleasant and comfortable.
