Last Updated on July 15, 2025 by ellen
Planning a trip can be exciting, but, there’s always that nagging worry: Will my pet be okay while I’m gone? This is what I’ve learned as a vacation pet sitter.
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How to Prep Your Pet for a Stress-Free Vacation with a Sitter
As a vacation pet sitter, I’ve worked with hundreds of animals—from excitable puppies to senior cats and even the occasional backyard chicken—and I can tell you this: with the right preparation, your pet can have just as relaxing a time as you do. Whether you’re heading off for a beachside escape or a business trip, making sure your pet is set up for a stress-free experience with their sitter makes all the difference.
As someone who works professionally with “other people’s pets,” I’ve learned what helps animals transition smoothly when their favorite human steps away for a few days. In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to prepare your furry (or feathered!) family member for your time away, how to help us bond faster, and how to stay connected so you feel confident they’re in loving hands.
Start With Familiarity: Your Pet’s Routine Matters
One of the most important ways to help your sitter—and your pet—is by keeping things as familiar as possible. Pets thrive on routine. Even small disruptions can be unsettling. Before your vacation, spend a few minutes writing out your pet’s daily habits: feeding times, potty breaks, walks, naps, medications, and bedtime rituals. Think of it as a “day in the life” of your pet.
As your vacation pet sitter, I want to mirror your routine closely. The more I know, the better I can provide consistency, which is especially helpful for anxious animals or those with medical needs. Even quirky habits like “he only drinks out of the blue bowl” or “she likes to sleep under the bed during thunderstorms” can make a big difference in how your sitter approaches care.
Pack With Comfort in Mind
You don’t need to pack a suitcase for your pet. But, having their familiar items on hand is essential. Favorite toys, blankets, a well-loved bed, and even a worn T-shirt that smells like you can bring enormous comfort during your absence. Animals rely heavily on scent, and familiar smells help ease separation anxiety.
Make sure everything your sitter might need is easy to find. This includes leashes, waste bags, litter boxes, favorite treats, and food bowls. Double-check that you have enough food, meds, and supplies to last the entire trip—plus a little extra, just in case your return is delayed.
If your sitter will be caring for your pet in your home, it’s helpful to leave everything in the usual places. For drop-in or boarding situations, consider setting up a “pet care kit” that travels with them, so their daily essentials aren’t forgotten or replaced with something unfamiliar.
Help Us Bond Before You Leave
One of the best things you can do for your pet is to arrange a short meet-and-greet with the sitter before you go. As a vacation pet sitter, I love meeting pets and their humans in advance. It gives me a chance to see how your pet interacts in their environment, learn where everything is, and—most importantly—start building trust with your animal.
Even just 20 minutes of playtime or a walk together can help your pet recognize me when I return without you. This initial connection can help reduce that “where did my person go?” panic and speed up the bonding process.
During this visit, we can also talk through any concerns or unique needs your pet has, from food guarding to thunderstorm anxiety. I’ll take notes and ask questions so I feel confident caring for your animal exactly the way you would.
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Emergency Contacts and Vet Info Are a Must
It’s not something any of us want to think about while preparing for a relaxing trip, but emergencies do happen—and having your vet’s contact information, a preferred emergency clinic, and a backup person to call can make all the difference in how quickly your sitter can respond.
Leave written instructions about what to do if your pet gets sick or lost. Include your contact information, your pet’s microchip number (if they have one), and whether you authorize your sitter to seek treatment on your behalf.
From a sitter’s perspective, knowing you’ve taken the time to think this through makes our job much easier and ensures we can act fast if needed.
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Decide How You Want to Stay in Touch
One of the most common questions I get is, “Can you send me updates?” The answer is always yes—but how often and in what format is totally up to you.
Some pet parents want daily updates with photos and a summary of the day. Others prefer just a quick text now and then to say all is well. I’ve even had clients who asked for silly selfie videos of me and their dog doing tricks!
Whatever your preference, it’s important to talk about it beforehand. That way, you’re not sitting on a beach wondering how Fluffy is doing. And, I’m not overloading you with messages when you’re trying to unplug. Communication is key to peace of mind—for both of us.
Say Goodbye Calmly
Your pet takes cues from you. If you’re stressed, rushed, or overly emotional when saying goodbye, they’ll pick up on that energy. Try to keep your farewell calm and upbeat. Let them see you interact positively with the sitter, so they understand this new person is safe and kind.
Resist the urge to sneak away or draw out the goodbye. I always tell clients: if you’re confident and relaxed, your pet is much more likely to follow suit.
Enjoy Your Trip—They’re in Good Hands
As your vacation pet sitter, my goal is to make your time away as stress-free as possible—for both you and your pet. When you take the time to prepare, it helps me give your pet the consistent, loving care they’re used to.
Traveling without your pet doesn’t mean leaving them behind emotionally. With preparation, communication, and a touch of their favorite comforts, your pet can have a calm, cozy staycation while you enjoy your well-deserved break.
And when you return, you’ll be greeted by a happy, tail-wagging friend who’s ready to welcome you home—because they were loved, cared for, and kept safe the entire time you were gone.
If you’re planning a trip and need a vacation pet sitter you can trust, reach out. I’d love to care for your pets like they’re my own.
Ellen runs a small pet sitting business in southern Vermont. She has experience with a variety of small animals, dogs and cats. She has also cared for ducks, chickens and rabbits. Combined, she has over 20 years of experience in pet care and pet sitting.