How to Prepare Your Pet for Boarding or a Sitter

1. Choose the Right Boarding Facility or Sitter

Not all options are created equal. Picking the right place or person ensures your pet gets the care they need while you are away.

1.1 Research Boarding Facilities or Pet Sitters

A little homework goes a long way in avoiding bad experiences.

How to do this:

• Look up reviews and ask for recommendations from friends, vets, or trainers.
• If choosing a boarding facility, visit in person to check cleanliness, security, and staff interactions with animals.
• If using a sitter, set up a meet-and-greet to see how they interact with your pet.

Why it matters:

• Gives you peace of mind knowing your pet is in good hands.
• Helps avoid last-minute panic when you realize a place is not the right fit.

1.2 Ask the Right Questions

Knowing the details upfront prevents surprises later.

How to do this:

• Ask how they handle feeding schedules, exercise, and medical emergencies.
• Find out if they offer extra services like grooming, training, or playtime.
• If your pet has anxiety or special needs, make sure they have experience handling those situations.

Why it matters:

• Ensures your pet gets the right level of care and attention.
• Helps you avoid unexpected fees or service limitations.

2. Gather the Essentials for Your Pet’s Stay

Making sure your pet has familiar items and clear instructions will help them adjust faster.

2.1 Pack Comfort Items

A few familiar things can make a big difference in keeping your pet calm.

How to do this:

• Bring their favorite bed, blanket, or toy to provide comfort.
• Include an unwashed shirt or item with your scent to ease separation anxiety.
• If they have a favorite chew or treat, pack it to help them settle in.

Why it matters:

• Reduces stress and helps your pet feel more at home.
• Makes the transition easier for pets who get anxious in new environments.

2.2 Prepare Enough Food and Medications

Keeping their diet and medication routine consistent is key to avoiding stomach issues or missed doses.

How to do this:

• Measure out enough food for the entire stay plus a little extra in case of delays.
• Provide clear feeding instructions, including portion sizes and any dietary restrictions.
• If your pet takes medication, pack it in a labeled container with detailed dosage instructions.

Why it matters:

• Prevents upset stomachs from sudden food changes.
• Ensures medications are given correctly and on schedule.

3. Share Important Care Instructions

Your pet’s caregiver should know exactly how to handle daily routines and emergencies.

3.1 Write Out a Care Sheet

A simple document with key details makes life easier for everyone.

How to do this:

• List feeding schedules, walk times, and bathroom habits.
• Include personality traits like shyness, energy levels, or triggers for anxiety.
• Add emergency contacts including your vet, a backup caregiver, and your own contact info.

Why it matters:

• Prevents misunderstandings that could lead to stress or health issues.
• Makes it easy for the caregiver to follow your pet’s routine.

3.2 Leave Vet and Emergency Instructions

No one expects an emergency, but it is best to be prepared.

How to do this:

• Provide your vet’s name, address, and phone number.
• Give clear instructions on what to do in case of illness or injury.
• If using a sitter, leave a signed note allowing them to authorize vet care on your behalf.

Why it matters:

• Saves time in case of an emergency.
• Ensures your pet gets immediate medical attention if needed.

4. Prepare Your Pet for Separation

A little training before you leave can help prevent stress and anxiety.

4.1 Do a Trial Run if Possible

Easing into a new routine can make a big difference.

How to do this:

• Have your pet stay at the boarding facility or with the sitter for a short visit or overnight stay before a long trip.
• Watch how they react to being left alone in a new place.
• If using a sitter, have them do a practice visit to get familiar with your pet’s routine.

Why it matters:

• Helps your pet get used to the new environment without a sudden shock.
• Reduces separation anxiety when the real trip happens.

4.2 Keep Departures and Returns Low-Key

Making a big deal out of leaving can make your pet more anxious.

How to do this:

• When leaving, stay calm and upbeat instead of overly emotional.
• Avoid long, dramatic goodbyes. A quick pat and a confident exit work best.
• When returning, greet them warmly but let them settle down before getting overly excited.

Why it matters:

• Helps your pet see departures as a normal part of life.
• Reduces hyperactivity or stress when you come back.

5. Check In and Follow Up

Making sure everything is going well will give you peace of mind.

5.1 Ask for Updates While You Are Away

Most caregivers are happy to provide updates so you do not worry.

How to do this:

• Ask for daily text updates or pictures of your pet.
• If the facility has a webcam, check in occasionally but avoid obsessing.
• Trust the caregiver to handle things unless there is a real concern.

Why it matters:

• Helps ease your own anxiety about leaving your pet.
• Allows you to spot any issues early if your pet is struggling.

5.2 Monitor Your Pet’s Behavior After Returning

Adjusting back home may take a little time.

How to do this:

• Expect a day or two of adjustment after a long stay.
• If they seem unusually tired or withdrawn, give them time to decompress.
• If they return with any signs of illness or behavioral changes, follow up with your vet.

Why it matters:

• Ensures your pet is happy and healthy after their stay.
• Helps you decide if you need a different option for future trips.

Final Thoughts

Leaving your pet with a sitter or boarding facility does not have to be stressful. With the right preparation, you can make sure they are safe, comfortable, and well cared for while you are away. Taking the time to set up their care properly will give you peace of mind and help your pet adjust smoothly.