You know that heavy feeling in your chest when you’re packing your bags and your dog just… watches you? We get it. Leaving your pup behind is tough. But with a little prep, you can set your dog (and your sitter!) up for a win, so you can actually enjoy your trip without the constant ‘pet-cam’ checking.
When travel plans don’t include your pup, Amivo curates everything you need to consider before leaving your dog with a sitter for a stress-free departure.
Sitting or Staying
Before you jet off, have your sitter swing by for a few hangouts. It’s way better for your pup to get to know them while you’re still around. Whether they’re staying at your place or heading to the sitter’s, a quick playdate (or two) makes the whole transition a breeze.
Sitting
Invite your pet sitter for a pre-trip visit. This brief socialization allows your dog to acclimate to their presence within the comfort of a familiar home environment.
Staying
If your pup will be hosted at the sitter’s residence, environment familiarity is essential. Arrange a trial visit to allow them to acclimate to their temporary home before your departure.
Meal Time
Meal prep is a lifesaver! Portion out your dog’s food for every single meal—it makes things so much easier for your sitter. And don’t forget the meds! We’re obsessed with using reusable silicone bags (like Stashers) to keep everything organized, sealed, and, honestly, looking pretty cute on the counter.
Familiar Essentials
Don’t forget the ‘home’ vibes. Pack their go-to toys, that one crusty-but-loved blanket, or their favorite bed. Let your sitter know what really comforts your dog—it’s the best fix for a sudden case of the ‘homesick blues’.
Safety First
Real talk: you can’t be too careful on walks. Make sure your sitter is 100% comfortable with how your dog’s harness or collar works before they hit the pavement. A quick ‘how-to’ session ensures everyone stays safe and secure while you’re away.
Walking in a new environment can be unpredictable. To prevent any ‘great escapes’ or gear failure, we always recommend a backup. A simple carabiner linking the collar and harness adds an extra layer of security, so you (and your sitter) can breathe easy on every stroll.
Harness
If your pup usually walks in a harness, just clip a small carabiner from the harness to their collar. Think of it as your safety net—if the harness ever slips or fails, that backup clip to the collar keeps them securely attached to the leash. Total peace of mind, simplified.
Collar
Walking on a collar? We always suggest a ‘Plan B.’ Just clip a small carabiner from their main collar to a backup one. That way, if their primary walking gear ever slips or fails, they’re still securely attached to the leash. Simple, smart, and totally stress-free.
Emergency Contact
Don’t forget the essentials: pass along your vet’s info to your sitter and give those ID tags a quick double-check. Making sure your pup’s tags have your current phone number is a small step that brings huge peace of mind while you’re away.
Outro:
Trust us, we wish we could bring them along every time, too. But when you have to head out solo, setting your pup up for success is the best way to travel with peace of mind. Here’s to a safe, happy stay for them—and a very waggy reunion for you.
At Amivo, we design for the moments you’re together—and the peace of mind you need when you’re apart.