5 Must-Have Items to Leave Your Pet Sitter (From a Gainesville Pet Sitter With 20+ Years of Experience)

As a professional pet sitter in Gainesville, FL for over 20 years, I’ve learned that having the right items ready before you leave can make a huge difference—not just for your pet, but for your home and your peace of mind.

Some items seem obvious, but you might be surprised how often pet sitters arrive and discover key supplies are missing, hard to find, or unavailable. This list isn’t just mine—it reflects what pet sitters across the industry talk about again and again.

If you want your pet sitter to provide the best care possible, here are the five most important items to leave behind, organized in order of priority.

1. Emergency & Veterinary Contact Information (Top Priority)

This is the most critical item to leave your pet sitter.

Your emergency contact should be someone who:

• Lives nearby

• Can access your home if needed

• Is authorized to make decisions about your pet if you’re unreachable

  
  

A professional pet sitter will always attempt to contact you first in an emergency, but having a trusted local backup is essential.

Be sure to include:

• Emergency contact name and phone number

• Your veterinarian’s name and phone number

• The nearest emergency vet clinic

• Pet Poison Control phone number

  
  

Many pet sitters store this information digitally, but it’s also incredibly helpful to post it on your refrigerator for quick access in urgent situations.

2. Pet Food (Plus Extra!)

Running out of food is one of the most common—and stressful—issues pet sitters encounter.

Always leave:

• Enough food for the entire stay plus extra

• Extra food is especially important during summer storms, hurricane season, winter weather, or extended trips

• Clear feeding instructions (amounts, timing, special notes)

This is especially critical for pets on:

• Prescription diets

• Limited-ingredient or specialty foods

  
  

Your pet sitter may not be able to shop for or source the exact food your pet needs, so having enough on hand is essential for your pet’s health and routine.

3. Collars, Harnesses & Leashes (With Location Clearly Noted)

Even if your pet sitter or dog walker brings their own equipment, never assume—this should always be discussed ahead of time.

Make sure:

• Collars and/or harnesses fit properly

• Leashes are in good condition

• Your sitter knows exactly where these items are kept

  
  

Clear communication here helps avoid delays, stress, and last-minute searching—especially when pets are eager (or nervous) about going outside.

4. Cleaning Supplies for Pet & Home Messes

Accidents happen. Mud happens. Hair happens. A prepared home makes everyone’s life easier.

Helpful supplies to leave out or clearly label:

• Paper towels and cleaning rags

• Enzymatic cleaner (for pet accidents)

• Floor or carpet cleaner appropriate for your flooring

• Pet-safe multi-surface cleaner or wipes

• Broom and dustpan

• Lightweight vacuum or handheld vacuum

• Dish soap and sponge specifically for food and water bowls

  
  

Pet Sitter Side Note

What’s one of the biggest mysteries in the pet sitting industry?

👉 Why the broom and dustpan are so often stored in completely different locations. And sometimes… the dustpan is never found at all!

Keeping these items together and easy to locate is a small detail that makes a big difference.

5. Favorite Toys & Treats

These may not be emergency items, but they’re incredibly valuable.

Favorite toys and treats help:

• Coax shy or hiding pets out

• Redirect nervous energy

• Focus attention on walks

• Make giving medications easier

• Provide comfort and familiarity while you’re away

  
  

Even one familiar toy or treat can reduce stress and help your pet feel safe during your absence.

Why Preparation Matters

When pet sitters have what they need, they can focus on what truly matters: caring for your pets like they’re their own. Thoughtful preparation leads to smoother visits, less stress, and happier pets.

At A Dog’s Life Pet Sitting, we’ve been proudly serving Gainesville, FL pet owners for over two decades, and we know firsthand how small details can make a big difference.

🐾 Planning a trip or need reliable pet care in Gainesville, FL?Let A Dog’s Life Pet Sitting provide professional, experienced, and compassionate care for your pets in the comfort of their own home.

👉 Contact us today to schedule your pet sitting services and enjoy peace of mind knowing your pets are in trusted hands.