How to Prepare Your Pet for a Pet Sitter

Leaving your pet in someone else's care, even the most experienced, loving sitter — can feel stressful. For many pet owners, the worry isn't really about the sitter. It's the nagging question: will my pet be okay without me?

The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. At The Furry Ohana, we treat every pet like family — and the smoother the handoff, the better the experience for everyone, especially your fur baby.

1. Schedule a Meet & Greet First

Before your first booking, arrange a time for your pet to meet their sitter in a relaxed, pressure-free environment. This allows your dog or cat to get familiar with a new scent and face before the actual sitting begins. First impressions matter — for pets just as much as for people.

💡 The Furry Ohana offers a FREE pet meet & greet when you tag or mention us on social media. It's a great way to start the relationship off right!

2. Write Out Your Pet's Routine

Dogs and cats are creatures of habit. If your pup eats at 7am and 5pm, goes for a walk right after breakfast, and naps on the left couch cushion — write it down. The more specific you are, the easier it is for your sitter to keep things consistent and reduce your pet's anxiety.

Your notes should include:

•       Feeding schedule, portions, and brand of food

•       Bathroom/walk frequency and preferred routes

•       Nap times or crate habits

•       Favorite toys, treats, or comfort items

•       Any quirks, fears, or behavioral triggers

3. Share Medical and Emergency Information

Leave a clear record of your vet's contact information, your pet's vaccination history, and any medications or supplements they take. If your pet has allergies, chronic conditions, or is on a special diet, make this information easy to find — not buried in a text thread.

Also designate a trusted backup contact in case you're unreachable. Peace of mind goes both ways.

4. Create a Comfortable Environment

Since all services with The Furry Ohana are provided in your home, your pet stays in their own familiar space — which is a huge advantage. Still, make sure essentials are easy to find: food, leashes, waste bags, litter, medications, and any special items that comfort your pet.

If your dog has separation anxiety, consider leaving an item of your clothing nearby. Your scent can be calming during those first few hours.

5. Practice Short Separations Before Your Trip

If your pet has never been left with a sitter before, don't wait until you're flying to Maui to find out how they handle it. Practice leaving for a few hours while the sitter is there, or even just step outside for short stretches. Gradual exposure reduces stress on both sides.

Preparation is one of the greatest acts of love you can show your pet. When you take the time to set your sitter up for success, you're setting your pet up for a calm, happy experience — even when you're not there.

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💡 Ready to get started? Reach out to The Furry Ohana at thefurryohana@gmail.com or visit www.thefurryohana.com to book your meet & greet today