Stick to Their Routine
Pets are creatures of habit. Whether it's feeding time at 7 AM or a walk at sunset, keeping their daily schedule consistent while you're away helps reduce anxiety. Before your sitter starts, write down your pet's routine in detail — meal times, portion sizes, walk schedules, and any bedtime rituals.
Share this schedule with your sitter at least a day before the booking. A good sitter will follow it closely, and your pet will feel far more at ease knowing their world hasn't been turned upside down.
Leave Familiar Items
A favourite blanket, a well-loved toy, or even a T-shirt that smells like you can make all the difference. Familiar scents and objects provide comfort and security, especially during the first day or two when your pet is adjusting to a new person.
If your pet is staying at the sitter's home, pack a small bag with their bed, toys, and treats. Think of it like packing a suitcase for a child — the goal is to bring enough of home that the new environment doesn't feel so foreign.
Arrange a Meet-and-Greet
Never leave your pet with a stranger. At PetHero, we always recommend a meet-and-greet before the first booking. This gives your pet a chance to sniff, explore, and warm up to the sitter in a low-pressure setting — ideally at your home or the sitter's.
Pay attention to how your pet reacts. A good match means your dog is curious and relaxed, or your cat isn't hiding under the couch. If the vibe isn't right, it's perfectly okay to try another sitter.
Prepare Emergency Contacts
Leave your sitter with a clear list of emergency contacts: your vet's name and phone number, an after-hours emergency vet, and a trusted friend or family member who can step in if needed. Include your pet's medical history, any current medications, and known allergies.
At PetHero, sitters have access to this information through the app, but a printed copy on the fridge never hurts. Peace of mind for you and the sitter makes the whole experience better.
Do a Trial Run
If your pet has never been with a sitter before, consider booking a short trial — a single daycare session or a home visit — before a longer stay. This lets your pet build familiarity with the sitter gradually, without the stress of a multi-day separation.
A trial run also gives you a chance to see how the sitter communicates. Do they send photo updates? Are they responsive to messages? The trial is as much about you building trust as it is about your pet settling in.
