Post in collaboration with Furry Tail Pet Care
Going on holiday? When you hire a pet sitter, you’re trusting someone to care for the furry members of your family. While professional pet sitters are trained to handle a wide range of situations, the quality of pet care they provide depends a lot on the information you share with them from the start.
Most health issues or emergencies in pet sitting can be prevented or managed quickly—when pet-owners offer clear, accurate details about their pet’s medical needs and day-to-day habits.
8 Essential Details Every Pet Sitter Needs
Whether you’re booking a once-off visit or regular care, here’s the most important health information your pet sitter should always know.
1. Your Pet’s Medical History
A brief overview of your pet’s medical background helps your sitter understand what’s normal, what needs monitoring, and what may require extra attention.
This can include:
- Previous illnesses or injuries
- Ongoing or chronic health conditions
- Previous surgeries
- Any mobility concerns
- Known allergies (food or environmental)
For example, a pet who has previously suffered a soft-tissue injury may require shorter, controlled walks. A pet with a history of ear infections may need careful drying after rain. These small details help sitters tailor the experience to your pet’s needs.
2. Medication and Dosage Instructions
If your pet takes medication, it’s essential to provide:
- The name of each medication
- Dosage amounts
- Frequency and timing
- How the medication should be given (with food, hidden in a treat, mixed into a meal, etc.)
- Any side effects to watch for
Clear instructions help avoid missed doses, double-dosing, or administration errors. A professional sitter will always follow your guidelines precisely, but only if they’re up to date and easy to understand.
3. Pre-Existing Symptoms and Conditions
Pre-existing symptoms and conditions often require proactive care to prevent flare-ups or complications.
These can include:
- Skin conditions (hot spots, dermatitis)
- Gastrointestinal sensitivities
- Arthritis
- Anxiety or phobias
- Respiratory issues
- Heart conditions
- Seizure disorders
Sharing this information allows the sitter to adjust activities, monitor symptoms, and avoid triggers. For example, a pet with arthritis may need extra support when climbing stairs, while a pet prone to digestive upset may require strict adherence to their usual diet.
4. Dietary Needs and Restrictions
Food-related issues are one of the most common causes of preventable vet visits.
To keep your pet safe, your sitter should always know:
- Exact feeding schedule
- Meal portions
- Preferred feeding location
- Foods to avoid
- Treat limits
- Any history of dietary sensitivities
If your pet is on a prescription diet or has a sensitive stomach, make this very clear. Even a single change can cause discomfort—or, in some cases, a more serious reaction.
5. Behavioural Considerations
Many behavioural traits have health or safety implications during care.
Let your sitter know if your pet:
- Is fearful around other pets
- Reacts to loud noises
- Guards food or toys
- Is anxious when left alone
- Is uncomfortable with strangers entering the home
- Has separation anxiety or a history of stress behaviours
These details help sitters avoid risky situations and create calm, structured experiences tailored to your pet’s comfort.
If your dog has anxiety, sharing techniques that help—like slow introductions, mental enrichment, or calming routines—can make a significant difference.
6. Emergency Veterinary Contact
During any type of care, it’s critical that the sitter knows:
- Your primary vet clinic
- Your preferred emergency vet
- Your pet’s microchip information
- Your contact details
- An emergency contact if you’re unreachable
If you have Pet Insurance, provide your policy information as well. In the event of an emergency, having these details ready allows the sitter to act quickly and confidently.
7. Signs That Are “Normal” for Your Pet
Every pet has quirks. Some pant more easily, some drink large amounts of water, and others move slowly after a big play session.
Let your sitter know:
- What your pet’s typical energy level looks like
- What normal appetite and drinking look like
- Any behaviours that seem unusual but aren’t a concern
- Any mild symptoms your vet has already assessed
This helps sitters distinguish between your pet’s normal behaviour and signs of distress.
8. What Your Pet Sitter Should Watch For
Your sitter acts as your eyes and ears while you’re away. Professional sitters observe for changes such as:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Sudden lethargy
- Limping or stiffness
- Excessive scratching or licking
- Swelling or hotspots
- Coughing or unusual breathing
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive drooling
- Signs of heat stress
- Anxiety or restlessness
Providing your sitter with a list of symptoms that concern you ensures they notify you promptly and take appropriate action.
Why This Information Matters
Sharing detailed health information isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. When a sitter understands your pet’s needs, they can:
- Identify changes early
- Reduce the risk of accidents or flare-ups
- Maintain routines that support wellbeing
- Respond quickly in emergencies
- Provide safer, more personalised care
The more your sitter knows, the more confident you can feel leaving home.
Pet Insurance for Pet Parents On-The-Go
Emergencies are never predictable, but being prepared even for the days when you’re away makes an enormous difference. Pet Insurance offers financial support when unexpected health issues arise, so your pet can receive the care they need.
This is especially valuable when your pet is in someone else’s care. If a sitter needs to visit a vet on your behalf, knowing your insurance details helps streamline the process and ensures your pet receives timely treatment.
Post in collaboration with Furry Tail Pet Care
