Pet Sitter Checklist

As much as we love having our Miniature Schnauzers with us, there may come a time when you have to hire a dog sitter to care your furry friend. If this is the case, be sure to leave with them detailed written instructions and house rules of all the things that may come up during your absence. Even if you have used the pet sitter before or thoroughly go over everything with them verbally, a written list will ensure there are no misunderstandings of your expectations by answering all the how, what, when, why, and where questions for them.

Pet Sitter Checklist

• Will the pet sitter know what to do if your Miniature Schnauzer has an emergency? How will they pay for it?
• Did you discuss what would happen if the dog sitter has an emergency of their own and for some unforeseen reasonable can't continue to care for your Miniature Schnauzer? What guidelines do you have in place to handle this situation?

Free Printable Dog Sitter ChecklistWe go through our days performing so many little routine tasks that a checklist is really needed so we don't forget anything.

Print yourself a copy and fill in all the necessary info to leave with the person responsible for looking after your Miniature Schnauzer while you are away.

Also if the person watching your dog will be staying in your home be sure to go over all the house rules (use of appliances, tv, stereo, computer), whether or not friends are allowed to visit, household tasks like bringing in your mail, watering plants, etc...

A few additional instructions you may want to cover with your dog sitter:

• Comfortable room temperature (thermostat settings)
• Emergency spare key
• Security code (if applicable)
• Neighbor(s) to Contact
• Family or other local contacts
• Home telephone usage
• Inform dog sitter of anyone else that may be coming to your home during your time away (gardeners, handyman, etc)
• Rooms (if any) that are off-limits to your Miniature Schnauzer
• Pantry, cupboards, and garbage areas should not be accessible
• No food or drink should be left out on a coffee table as well as any nuts or candy (toxic foods to pets)
• All doors, windows and gates should remain locked while you are away.
• Photo of your Miniature Schnauzer, along with additional info in case they get out and lost (lost dog info)

In addition to the pet sitter checklist, you might find it helpful to prepare a box or storage bin with the most used dog items in it, just to make it that much easier for the dog sitter to find things like: dog leash, collar, flashlight, poop bags, favorite toys, treats, dog food, medications, etc. Also if you have a pet carrier, be sure it is available in case your sitter needs to use it to transport your Schnauzer.

Additional Pet Sitter Checklist Info

During your time away, try and keep your cell phone on as much as possible so attempts to contact you first concerning major decisions are available to the sitter. If a situation does arise that needs your input and you cannot be reached be sure the pet sitter has at least 3 additional contacts (family member(s) and/or close friends) that you have given authority to make such decisions. Also, be sure to notify your vet by phone and in writing about extending medical care to your Miniature Schnauzer during your absence.

Without prior instructions and if you are not able to be reached, you leave the pet sitter no other choice than to make decisions on behalf of your Miniature Schnauzer.

Dogs get sick, accidents happen. Be prepared. Print out our pet sitter checklist and leave clear written instructions.

note: If your Miniature Schnauzer begins showing signs of illness just before your trip, make an appointment with your vet for a physical exam. Your Schnauzer should be up-to-date with all vaccines and ID tags affixed to collar.

Also, think about things you may need to add to your pet sitter checklist that are specific to your Miniature Schnauzer's needs. Are there certain dogs in your neighborhood that your Schnauzer should not be allowed to approach while on a daily walk? Is your Miniature Schnauzer afraid of thunderstorms or loud noises? What about the vacuum cleaner?

*** important tip from Schnauzers Rule: Please discuss how to handle potty accidents and/or anything else that might be considered bad doggy behavior, while you are away. You don't want to find out later on that your Schnauzer got his nose pushed down into urine or hit for chewing on a rug. So please discuss with the pet sitter how to handle any type of correction with your Miniature Schnauzer.

I know its hard to think of everything but that's why filling out our pet sitter checklist is so important. Don't wait until the last minute to do it either. Begin preparing the list about a week in advance of your departure and add to it as things come up.

And when possible phone, or email your pet sitter while you are away and check on how things are going. You will have a better trip knowing your Miniature Schnauzer is being well cared for and safe.

FREE PRINTABLE INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE DOG SITTER

*Special tip: If you are renting an apartment or home, leave word with the landlord and give them your pet sitter's name and contact number. (Also, leave landlord info with pet sitter).

Pet Cam Surveillance Camera

Panasonic Network Camera and Pet Cam (BLC1A)

And for even more reassurance, check out this very affordable pet cam! It can be viewed and controlled from a standard Web browser, video display, or even a compatible cell phone or PDA. No PC required on location! And it's easy to instal!

Now you can always feel close to your Schnauzer, whether at work or on vacation. Did the pet sitter show up as promised? Is your Schnauzer playing with his favorite squeaky toy? Sleeping on the sofa? You'll know instantly with this webcam.

Go from Pet Sitter Checklist to Choosing a Dog Sitter

Related Topics:
★ Miniature Schnauzer Dog Boarding Tips
★ Miniature Schnauzer Dog Car Travel
★ Dog Info Card

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