Planning a well-deserved holiday? As you pack your bags and double-check your flight times, don’t forget to prepare the most important family member staying behind—your pet. Whether you’re off to Cape Town’s wine country or hiking in the Drakensberg, following a holiday checklist from petsittersnearme.co.za ensures your pet is comfortable, safe, and well-cared for—making your trip smoother and worry-free.
Here’s your ultimate pet holiday checklist to ensure both your pet and their sitter are ready for your time away.
🐾 1. Emergency Contacts – Always Be Prepared
Leave a printed and digital list of emergency contacts. This should include:
- Your vet’s contact details
- An emergency 24-hour animal clinic nearby
- A trusted friend or family member as a backup contact
- Your own contact info and your travel itinerary
In case of a health scare or sudden situation, your pet sitter needs quick access to help. Preparation here means peace of mind later.
🍽️ 2. Feeding Schedule – Keep the Routine
Even if you’re living it up on holiday, your furry friend thrives on routine. Write down:
- What type of food they eat (and how much)
- How often they are fed
- Where food is stored
- Any treats or dietary restrictions
Bonus tip: Measure out each meal in resealable bags—this removes guesswork for the sitter and avoids overfeeding.
🧸 3. Favourite Toys and Comfort Items
Just like humans miss home comforts, pets do too. Whether it’s a squeaky duck, a snuggly blanket, or that one tennis ball they refuse to part with, make sure their favourite items are accessible. These familiar things help reduce anxiety and make the transition to a temporary carer smoother.
🩺 4. Vet Information and Medical Needs
If your pet has medical conditions or is on any treatment, write out clear instructions for your pet sitter:
- Medication names and dosage
- When and how to administer
- Any symptoms to watch out for
- Your vet’s contact info again (yes, it’s worth repeating)
Also, make sure your pet’s vaccinations and flea/tick treatments are up to date before you travel.
📋 5. Personality Quirks and Behaviour Tips
No one knows your pet like you do. Share insight with your sitter like:
- How your pet reacts to strangers or loud noises
- Any aggressive tendencies (especially with other animals)
- What calms them down during a thunderstorm
- Where they like to nap or hide
This helps your sitter manage your pet’s emotional needs just as much as their physical care.
🐶 6. Leave a Daily Routine
Jot down a typical day in your pet’s life, including:
- Walk times
- Play sessions
- Cuddle routines
- Bedtime
A consistent schedule helps your pet stay relaxed and feel secure while you’re away.
✈️ Bonus: Start Preparing Early
One of the best gifts you can give your pet (and yourself) is time. Booking a reliable pet sitter well in advance gives you both a chance to meet and ensures your pet is familiar with their temporary guardian. Platforms like petsittersnearme.co.za make it easy to find trusted local carers who treat your pets like their own. Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, or anywhere in between, simply search “Pet Sitters Near Me” to find professionals who are nearby, verified, and ready to help.
Final Thoughts
Travelling should be exciting, not stressful. With a little bit of planning and the right support in place, you can enjoy your time away knowing your furry companion is safe, happy, and well cared for. So pack that suitcase, set your out-of-office, and leave the rest to a capable pet sitter—with the holiday checklist from petsittersnearme.co.za as their guide.
Looking for a reliable pet sitter before your next trip? Visit petsittersnearme.co.za and connect with trusted pet lovers across South Africa today.
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