Printable Pet Sitter Instructions Template: Complete Guide

A printable pet sitter instructions template gives your sitter everything they need in a clear, organised format — without you having to write the same information from scratch every time you go away. This guide explains what a good template covers and how to fill it in properly.

What a Pet Sitter Instructions Template Should Cover

A good template has several distinct sections. Each one serves a different purpose — and missing any of them leaves your sitter unprepared for common situations.

Section 1: Pet Profile

Name, breed, age, sex and any identifying features. Useful if someone else needs to identify or describe your pet (e.g. if your pet gets out).

Section 2: Owner and Emergency Contacts

Your number, a backup contact who knows your pet, and an explicit instruction for what to do if they cannot reach you. "Call the emergency vet immediately and I will reimburse you" removes all hesitation.

Section 3: Vet Information

Vet clinic, phone number, address, out-of-hours emergency vet, insurance provider and policy number.

Section 4: Feeding Schedule

Food brand, serving size, feeding times, where food is stored and a list of foods your pet must not have. This is one of the most important sections — well-meaning sitters cause digestive upset through overfeeding or giving unsuitable human food.

Section 5: Walking and Exercise

Number of walks, expected duration, lead behaviour, areas to avoid and whether your dog can be off lead.

Section 6: Medications

Name, dose, timing and how to administer (with food? Crushed? Hidden in a treat?). Include what the medication is for so your sitter understands the importance of not missing a dose.

Section 7: Behaviour Notes

How your pet behaves around strangers, other animals, children. Known triggers. Hiding spots when stressed. Commands they know and respond to.

Section 8: Daily Routine

Wake time, nap times, play preferences, bedtime routine. Keeping the routine consistent is the single biggest factor in reducing anxiety for pets in care.

Section 9: Household Notes

Wi-Fi, alarm code, key return instructions, rubbish days for longer stays.

How to Use a Printable Template

1. Print it out rather than sending a text or email. A printed sheet is faster to reference and works without a phone signal.
2. Fill it in completely — leave no sections blank. If a section does not apply (e.g. no medications), write "none" rather than leaving it empty so the sitter knows it was not accidentally missed.
3. Update it before every trip. Weight, medications and vet details change. Do not hand over last year's template without checking it.
4. Go through it with your sitter the first time. Answer any questions in person. Written instructions plus a conversation are far better than written instructions alone.
5. Keep a copy yourself — photograph it with your phone before you leave.

Fillable vs Printable: Which Is Better?

A fillable PDF can be typed into on a computer and saved digitally. A printable PDF is filled in by hand. Both work well.

Fillable PDFs are useful if you have several sitters or want to keep a digital archive. Printable PDFs work better if you prefer to hand write, have limited tech access or want a laminated card to keep on the fridge.

The best option is a pack that includes both — type it once, save it, print it when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same template for a dog and a cat?

Most pet sitter instruction templates work for any pet with minor adjustments — replace "walks" with "indoor play" or "litter box", for example. A good template has pet-neutral sections with space to customise.

Where do I keep pet sitter instructions?

Give a copy to your sitter and keep one on the fridge. For a house sitter, leave a copy on the kitchen counter where it is easily visible. Photograph it on your phone as a backup.