What to Leave for a Pet-Care Provider Before You Travel

Printable pet-care preparation checklist

• Names, species, ages and identifying details for every animal
• Exact food portions, timing and where supplies are stored
• Fresh-water routine and location of extra bowls or bottles
• Litter, enclosure, coop or aquarium instructions
• Medication name, written directions and what the provider has agreed to do
• Behavior, handling, hiding places, triggers and escape risks
• Leads, harnesses, carriers and other approved equipment
• Veterinarian name and telephone number
• Local emergency contact with authority to make decisions
• Your travel contact details and expected return
• Entry instructions, alarm details and a tested key
• Bins, mail or plant tasks included in the agreed visit
• Cleaning supplies and where to place waste
• A backup plan if travel is delayed

Write for someone seeing the routine fresh

Use specific quantities and locations rather than phrases such as ‘the usual amount.’ Label food and equipment, identify animals who look similar and explain which doors must remain closed. Remove outdated notes so the provider is not choosing between conflicting instructions.

Agree on decisions before departure

Discuss what should prompt a message, a call to your emergency contact or a call to your veterinarian. Confirm visit windows, what a visit includes and any limits on handling or household tasks. Leave enough supplies for a delay, but do not add unagreed work after the service has begun.

Do a final departure check

• Provider can enter successfully
• Contact details are current
• Food and essential supplies are easy to find
• Carriers and leads are accessible
• Temperature and household systems are set
• Return changes will be communicated promptly