Leaving Your Pet Behind? The Insiders Guide to Finding a Trusted Sitter

Ever planned the perfect vacation only to get hit with that guilty feeling of leaving your pet behind? You’re not alone. As a pet parent, I know the guilt of leaving a furry friend behind all too well. When I had to leave my cat Stefan for a trip, it broke my heart. 

Read: Here’s what it felt like to leave my cat behind

 

As much as we’d love to bring our furry friends on every trip, sometimes it’s just not practical. The last thing you want to do is spend your vacation constantly worrying if your pet is safe and receiving proper care.

That’s where a great pet sitter comes in. But finding the right one? That’s not always as simple as it sounds. You need someone who’s reliable, experienced, and trustworthy —someone who won’t just stop by to refill the food bowl but will actually bond with your pet, stick to their routine, and provide the love and attention they’re used to.

So how do you find a reliable pet sitter you can trust? Where do you even start? And what should you look for to make sure your pet is in the best hands?

Good news—you can find the perfect pet sitter. I’ll walk you through everything: the importance of choosing a trustworthy sitter, the key questions to ask before hiring one, and how to prepare your pet for their stay.

The importance of choosing the right pet sitter

A great pet sitter does more than just feed your cat or walk your dog. They understand your pet’s needs, provide companionship, and maintain their routine. When you're away, you want more than just basic pet care—you need someone who truly connects with your pet and sticks to their usual schedule. The right sitter offers comfort, security, and a stress-free environment, ensuring your pet stays happy and well cared for in your absence.

Key questions to ask before hiring a pet sitter

1.What experience, training, or certifications do they have?

This is key to understanding how well they'll care for your pet. Have they worked with specific breeds or animals with special needs? Training and hands-on experience help sitters recognize subtle signs of stress or discomfort and respond appropriately. You want someone who isn't just good with animals but also knows how to handle unexpected situations with confidence.

2.What services do they offer?

This helps you know exactly what to expect from the pet sitter. Some only provide the basics—like feeding and walking—while others go the extra mile with playtime, grooming, or overnight care. Be sure their services match your pet’s needs and your expectations.

3.Do they have liability insurance?

When hiring a pet sitter, it’s crucial to check if they have liability insurance. Without it, you could be responsible if something goes wrong—like an accident or injury. Always ask for proof of coverage, and if they have employees, make sure they’re covered under the same policy.

4.What would they do if your pet had an emergency?

This question is essential because it helps you assess how prepared the pet sitter is for unexpected situations. Emergencies can happen, and a qualified sitter should know how to stay calm and act quickly. They should have a clear plan, like knowing your vet’s contact info, understanding emergency procedures, and having pet first aid training.

5. What type of animals have they worked with before?

Understanding a pet sitter’s experience with different animals helps you determine if they’re the right fit for your pet. If you own a pet other than a dog or cat—like a bird, rabbit, or reptile—you need a sitter who understands their specific needs.

6.Do they use contracts?

It’s important to know if a pet sitter uses contracts, as they help set clear expectations for both parties. A contract outlines services, payment, and responsibilities, preventing misunderstandings and ensuring clarity upfront.

How to prepare your pet for a pet sitter 

1.Prepare your home 

Remove hazards like loose wires, small objects, or anything your pet might chew on. Block off restricted areas and place essentials—food, leashes, and cleaning supplies—somewhere easy to find. Tidy up feeding and sleeping areas, and leave out extra waste bags or grooming tools. A little prep ensures a smooth experience for both your pet and the sitter!

2. Make sure your pet has enough food and medication 

Make sure your pet has plenty of food, treats, and any necessary medications before you leave. If they have specific dietary needs or take medication, portion them out in labeled containers for easy access. Provide clear feeding instructions, including portion sizes and meal times, and note down any allergies or food restrictions, to prevent mistakes. Keep extra supplies, like feeding bowls and supplements, in an easy-to-find spot.

3. Provide detailed instructions about your pet's routine

Write down everything your pet sitter needs to know—feeding times, portion sizes, bathroom breaks, and any special care instructions. If your pet has quirks, like a fear of loud noises or a specific bedtime routine, be sure to mention them. The more details you provide, the easier it will be for the sitter to maintain your pet's routine while you're away. 

4. Update your pet's ID and microchip 

Before you leave, ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip details are up to date. Their tag should have your current number and a backup contact. If your pet is microchipped, log into the registry and confirm that the details are up to date. Also, check if the tag is worn or hard to read—if so, replace it. A clear, secure tag can be a lifesaver if your pet ever gets lost. 

5. Introduce your pet to the sitter early

Let your pet and the sitter get familiar with each other before you leave. If possible, have the sitter come by a few times while you’re still home so your pet can get used to them. Let them hang out, give treats, play, or even go for a short walk together. If your pet is shy, start with quick visits and gradually increase the time. The goal is to make your pet feel comfortable so that when you leave, they already know the sitter, and it doesn’t feel like a big, scary change.

6. Provide vet contact info for emergencies 

Leave your vet’s contact information somewhere easy to find, like on the fridge or in a pet care notebook. Include the vet's name, phone number and the clinic address. If your pet has medical conditions, note that down as well. It’s always better to have everything ready so your sitter isn’t scrambling for info in an emergency.

Leaving your pet with a sitter can feel a bit like sending your child to their first sleepover—will they behave? Will they miss you? Or will they forget you exist the second they hear the treat jar open? With a little planning, some clear instructions, and a sitter your pet actually likes, you can rest easy knowing they’re in safe hands. And don’t be surprised if they give you the ‘’Oh, you’re back?’’look—turns out, they’ve been living their best life without you! 

Author bio: Zaituni Amir is a writer who loves all things travel—exploring new destinations, sharing expert tips, and highlighting places worth visiting. Through her writing, she shares detailed guides and practical advice to help readers travel smarter. If it involves travel, she’s either writing about it or finding an excuse to book another trip.