What AI says about preparing your home for a pet sit. Do you agree? What would you add?

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Welcoming a free pet sitter into your home is a mutually beneficial arrangement, but it requires clear communication and preparation to ensure the experience is positive for both parties. Here’s what a pet owner should do:

  1. Prepare the Space for the Pet Sitter
  • Clean and Organize: Ensure the home is clean, tidy and comfortable for the sitter. Clear out space in a guest/bedroom or common area for their stay and belongings.
  • Provide Essentials: Include clean bedding, towels, toiletries, and access to Wi-Fi or any necessary amenities.
  1. Share Detailed Pet Care Instructions
  • Daily Routine: Write a schedule for feeding, walking, playtime, and other pet needs.
  • Health Information: Share details about allergies, medications, or any medical conditions your pets have, along with emergency veterinary contact information.
  • Food and Supplies: Stock up on pet food, litter, cleaning supplies, and any other essentials the sitter may need.
  1. Communicate House Rules
  • Be clear about expectations for things like:
    • Areas of the house that are off-limits.
    • Use of appliances, vehicles, or any personal items.
    • Quiet hours or neighborhood considerations.
  1. Emergency Preparedness
  • Provide a list of emergency contacts, including neighbors, friends, and a preferred vet.
  • Leave instructions for accessing emergency cash or credit for unexpected pet-related expenses.
  1. Familiarize the Sitter with Your Pets and Home
  • Arrange a meet-and-greet if possible, so your pets can meet the sitter in advance.
  • Offer a tour of your home, explaining how to use security systems, heating/cooling, and any quirks of the property.
  1. Express Appreciation
  • A small gesture like leaving snacks, a welcome note, or a guide to local attractions can make the sitter feel more at home.
  1. Set Communication Expectations
  • Agree on how often and in what format (texts, photos, videos) you’d like updates about your pets.
  1. Provide a Backup Plan
  • Have a friend, family member, or neighbor on call in case the sitter needs assistance or an unexpected situation arises.

This preparation shows respect for the sitter’s time and effort, ensures your pets are well-cared for, and creates a positive experience for everyone involved.

What do we all feel about this list? Anything you would add from your favourite sits? (Ps. The use of AI for this question is just for fun. I was curious what Chat GPT would say about the topic)

6 Likes
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Seems spot on to me. Just alter the meet and greet to add a video chat as an option.

8 Likes
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I liked it! :blush:

2 Likes
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Some refinement from an experienced human sitters perspective.

  • And set up an account with the vet for payment of any emergency bills

Plus
provide clear clean space in fridge , freezer and a clear space ( cupboard / shelf ) to store their groceries

+Whether the sitter is permitted to have guests during their stay .

Generally an in person visit before the sit is not practical for a THS sit but it can be done by video call .

5 Likes
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A good thing to add would be to have essentials such as bread and milk etc if a sitter has had a long journey its nice not to have to go shopping, especially on that first day.

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6

Love these additions! And perhaps also where the security cameras are.

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Absolutely! And some of the kindest owners do even offer a welcome dinner.

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If they are inside, make sure they are disabled. And let them know they exist, but not activated.

1 Like
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Absolutely! That’s more vital to us than wardrobe space. Add to that: Clear out perishables which are no longer edible. And, ensure the oven and microwave are cleaned, pre-sit.

1 Like