A dog sitter needs to know what to do, where to find it and who to contact when the usual plan does not work. A written handover is most useful when it matches a real walkthrough of your home and routine.
Walk through the day
Show the sitter where food, leads, waste bags and cleaning supplies are stored. Explain the current routine and any restrictions on treats or activities. Demonstrate equipment safely rather than assuming every harness fastens in the same way.
Use clear quantities and instructions from your veterinarian where relevant. Keep prescribed-treatment directions with the original labelled packaging and confirm the sitter can carry them out.
Describe situations, not labels
Instead of simply writing “nervous” or “friendly”, explain known practical concerns: the dog needs space from unfamiliar dogs, for example, or a particular doorway must remain closed. Avoid asking the sitter to test a new behaviour or introduce unfamiliar activities.
Agree on a manageable walking route and what to do if it becomes crowded or unsuitable.
Plan for changes
- Provide your contact and a backup contact.
- Confirm the veterinary practice and emergency arrangements.
- Agree what requires an immediate call.
- Explain the plan if you are delayed.
- Keep entry instructions private and secure.
Ask for concise updates about completed tasks and anything unusual. A photograph can be welcome, but it should not require forcing a pose or taking unnecessary risks.
Before leaving, invite the sitter to talk through the plan. Correct any unclear wording and date the final copy. The objective is a reliable handover that can be followed under ordinary, busy conditions.
Keep reading: another guide from our pet journal.
