Preparing for Your Dog's First Pet Sitting Visit
Updated On: Tuesday, November 12, 2024 11:05:45 AM America/Los_Angeles
Leaving your fur baby in the care of a stranger for the first time can be ruff for both you and your dog. However, there are ways to make sure that the initial visit goes as well as possible. So what can you do to ensure a smooth visit?
Photo by Jamie Street
Prepare yourself and your pooch by having the pet sitter come visit for the first time while you are home. Dogs will feel reassured by seeing their owners interact with the sitter in a friendly manner, which in turn makes for an easier first pet sitting visit. You might even consider paying for a “test” visit where your dog is taken out for a first walk while you stay put. This can give anxious dog pawrents and their dogs alike some peace of mind.
And of course, you’ll also want to make sure that your dog has everything they need. Everyone will have one less thing to worry about if supplies and basic necessities are taken care of. Here are some essential items to have stocked ahead of the first visit:
Pee Pad
Though pet sitters do routine walks, they won’t be there for the in between moments when your dog needs to go potty. A real grass wee wee pad like DoggieLawn offers a piece of the great outdoors while your pup waits to be walked.
Treats
Help both the pet sitter and your dog out by leaving your pup’s favorite treats behind. This will help them bond and give your doggo a yummy snack to boot! If you have a furry one with separation anxiety, try a calming treat that can help keep worries about being home alone or with a stranger at bay.
Interactive Toys
One of the major upsides of hiring a pet sitter is that they provide social interaction and mental stimulation in addition to feeding and walking your pooch. However, those twice daily visits still aren’t as much interaction as they would normally get. Leave out interactive toys such as treat balls to help pass those lonely hours.
Leash and Harness
It goes without saying that a sturdy leash and harness should be made available so that your furry one can safely be taken out for walks. This is especially important when you’re not the one behind the leash, as anxious or nervous dogs may try to run or escape if they’re uncomfortable with unfamiliar people.
Poo Bags
One of a dog sitters’ key responsibilities is helping fur babies have their potty needs taken care of. This includes picking up after your dog. Keep poo bags stocked so that you can help your sitter walk your dog responsibly.
Identification and Important Phone Numbers
Check that the information on all dog tags can be clearly read. In addition, inform your pet sitter of important phone numbers such as an alternate number for you, your vet’s number, and the number for the nearest animal emergency room.
