Your Essential Pet Sitter Checklist for Holiday Travel

The holiday season is full of family gatherings, winter adventures, and well-deserved breaks — but your furry family member still needs consistent care, comfort, and emotional support.

At Prana Pets, our mission is grounded in Natural Wellness, Unconditional Love, and science-backed support for every dog and cat. Whether you’re hiring a dog sitter, a professional pet sitter, or asking a family member to help out, the right preparation keeps your pet relaxed and thriving while you enjoy your perfect vacation.

This guide answers the most asked holiday pet sitting questions, includes a printable pet sitter checklist, and shares expert insights so you can leave home with confidence.

❓ What Should I Include in a Pet Sitter Checklist Before Holiday Travel?

A complete pet sitter checklist helps your sitter understand your pet’s daily needs and eliminates guesswork during your trip. According to the Pet Sitters International 2024 survey, 74% of pet parents say clearer instructions reduce sitter mistakes by over 50%.

A strong checklist ensures your sitter knows routines, behavioral concerns, and emergency steps in an obvious place they can access easily.

A great pet sitter checklist includes:

• 🥣 Feeding schedule (brand, flavor, serving size)

• 💊 Supplements & daily supplement timing

• 🚶 Walk or playtime routines

• ❤️ Behavior notes or anxiety triggers

• 📞 Contact information (yours, a backup family member, and vet info)

• 📁 Medical records, medications, allergies

• 🎒 Pet supplies: leash, dog poop bags, treats, litter, pet carrier

• 🏡 Home instructions: thermostat, air conditioner, wifi password, household technology, remote controls

This is the first thing a sitter will use to keep your pet’s routine consistent and stress-free.

❓ How Should I Prepare My Home for a Pet Sitter?

Preparing your home ensures your pooch or kitten feels comfortable in their own home while a professional pet sitter handles their range of responsibilities. A calm environment reduces anxiety and improves behavior, especially during the busy holiday season.

Tips to prepare your home:

• 🛏️ Create a safe space with your pet’s favorite toys or blankets

• 🧼 Leave basic cleaning supplies like wipes, towels, and odor removers

• 🍖 Stock food, treats, litter, and cleaning essentials in an obvious place

• 📞 Post emergency contact information — vet, clinic, and your phone numbers

• 🌡️ Leave instructions for thermostat, air conditioner, alarms, and wifi

A sitter who can find everything easily is a sitter who keeps your pet happy.

❓ What Health Essentials Should I Leave for the Pet Sitter?

Holiday travel can create disruptions, so maintaining your pet’s health routine is one of the most important things you can do. Leaving the right items improves consistency and keeps your furry family member comfortable.

Include in your wellness kit:

• Medications & dosing instructions

• Daily supplement sessions

• A copy of veterinary care history

• Allergy notes

• Seasonal support like:

• 🌿 Immunity Blend for strong immune function

• 💗 Nervous System Support for emotional balance

• 😺 CBD Oil for Cats and 🐶 CBD Oil for Dogs for relaxation

A well-prepared sitter can spot problems early and support your pet’s wellness naturally.

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❓ How Can I Reduce My Pet’s Stress While I’m Away?

Holiday noise, travel, and schedule changes can increase stress levels in both dogs and cats. According to a 2022 AVMA report, 56% of pets show increased restlessness during routine disruptions.

Help your pet stay calm:

• Introduce the sitter early

• Leave a blanket with your scent

• Keep supplement timing consistent

• Use calming tools like Nervous System Support

• Keep familiar nap spaces available

Small steps help pets feel like their human is still close by.

❓ Should I Schedule a Vet Visit Before Leaving My Pet With a Sitter?

A pre-trip vet visit is a great way to prevent emergencies. Winter weather and indoor heating can impact hydration, allergies, and joint mobility, so a quick checkup ensures your pet is comfortable while you travel.

Ask your vet to:

• Confirm vaccination status

• Review medical records

• Check for winter sensitivity

• Refill medications

• Provide recommendations for sitter contact

This helps your pet stay healthy and gives you peace of mind.

❓ Can You Provide an Example Template for a Pet Sitter Checklist?

Here is a simple pet sitter checklist template to print and leave at home:

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🌟 Final Thoughts: Giving Your Pet the Best Care While You Travel

Holiday travel may pull you away from home, but your pet’s routine doesn’t have to suffer. With a thorough pet sitter checklist, clear instructions, and natural formulas like Immunity Blend, Nervous System Support, and CBD Oil, your furry family member stays relaxed, healthy, and supported. At Prana Pets, we believe that every member of the family — two-legged or four-legged — deserves holistic care rooted in love and backed by science.

Travel confidently knowing your pet is safe, cared for, and comforted until you're home again. 💚

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