As a pet owner, finding a reliable and trustworthy pet sitter is invaluable. Once you’ve found that perfect match, it’s crucial to ensure they feel comfortable and welcome in your home. This not only enhances their experience but also increases the likelihood of them prioritising your future sits, especially during busy periods. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the conveniences homeowners should provide for their pet sitters.
The Basics: Comfort and Space
- Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements: Provide a clean, comfortable bed in a warm room. Ensure the mattress is in good condition and the bedding is fresh.
- Personal Space: Clear out at least one drawer and some wardrobe space for the sitter to unpack their belongings. This simple gesture goes a long way in making them feel at home.
- Clean Linen: Supply fresh towels, washcloths, and an extra set of bed linen. Leave instructions on what to do with used linen at the end of the sit.
- Bathroom Essentials: Ensure the bathroom is stocked with toilet paper, hand soap, and basic toiletries.
One of the things I really appreciate – no matter how long a sit is for – is having a set of drawers to put my clothes in. This really simple convenience, along with adequate space in a wardrobe, goes a long way to making me feel settled and at home.
Kitchen and Food
- Kitchen Access: Make sure your sitter has full access to kitchen facilities, including the refrigerator, oven, and microwave.
- Basic Pantry Items: Stock up on some basic pantry items like coffee, tea, sugar, and cooking oil. Consider leaving some snacks or a welcome basket.
- Clear Labelling: Clearly label any food items that are off-limits or any special dietary requirements for your pets.
Comfort and Convenience
- Home Manual: Create a simple guide with information about your home, including Wi-Fi passwords, TV instructions, and any quirks of the house.
- Climate Control: Provide clear instructions on how to operate the heating and cooling systems.
- Cleaning Supplies: Make cleaning supplies easily accessible, including vacuum cleaner, mop, and basic cleaning products.
While some pet owners focus on the appeal of their home’s amenities, what truly matters is how welcome you make your sitter feel. Even a modest home can be incredibly inviting if you provide your sitter with clear instructions for daily tasks and ensure they have access to all the basics they need. It’s about giving them the confidence to comfortably manage day-to-day life in your home.
Going the Extra Mile
- Entertainment Options: Provide access to your TV streaming services, or leave some books or magazines for downtime.
- Local Area Information: Leave a guide to the local area, including recommended restaurants, emergency services, and any nice walks or attractions.
- Seasonal Comforts: If it’s winter and you have a fireplace, stock up on firewood and leave clear instructions on use. In summer, ensure fans or air conditioning are available.
- Welcome Note: A personalised welcome note can make your sitter feel appreciated and set a positive tone for the sit.
- Emergency Contact: Leave a clear list of emergency contacts, including your vet’s information and a local friend or family member who can help if needed.
The Importance of a Comfortable Sitter
Remember, the more at home your pet sitter feels, the better care they’re likely to provide for your beloved pets. A comfortable, well-accommodated sitter is more likely to:
- Be relaxed and attentive to your pets’ needs
- Handle any unexpected situations calmly and effectively
- Want to return for future sits
- Prioritise your bookings during busy periods like holidays
By going above and beyond to make your sitter feel welcome, you’re not just ensuring a pleasant stay for them, but also guaranteeing peace of mind for yourself and excellent care for your pets.
In the competitive world of pet sitting, where trusted and preferred sitters are often booked well in advance, these thoughtful touches can make all the difference. They can transform your home from just another sitting assignment to a favourite destination for top-tier pet sitters.
Investing time and effort into creating a welcoming environment for your pet sitter is ultimately an investment in your pets’ care and your own peace of mind. So, the next time you’re preparing for a pet sitter, consider these tips and watch as your home becomes a sought-after sitting destination!