Holiday Pet Sitter Checklist for Dogs and Cats

Having someone watch your dog or cat over the holidays? A short, visible handoff helps a sitter know your pet's routine and what to do if holiday food, decorations, or plants become a problem. You can also use this checklist when guests will be spending time in your home.

Leave the practical details in one place

Your vet's name and phone number, plus the nearest 24-hour emergency vet.
Your chosen pet poison control contact. Check the number directly before writing it down; some services charge a fee.
Your pet's normal food and treats, feeding routine, and any instructions you want the sitter to follow.
Your pet's weight and the location of food packaging, in case a veterinarian asks what was eaten.
Where your pet can rest quietly during gatherings.

Make holiday food rules explicit

Tell the sitter and guests whether they may give your pet any table food. For dogs, the safest handoff is a clear list of the plain foods you have approved and a reminder that dishes with gravy, stuffing, sweets, or unknown ingredients should not be shared. For cats, keep holiday dishes and treats out of reach. Do not assume every guest knows the same rules.

Do a quick room check together

Point out the covered tree water, any accessible wires or batteries, ornaments, candles, and secured trash. Keep ribbons and tinsel out of reach. If you have a cat, pay particular attention to bouquets that may contain lilies. Let the sitter know where your pet's quiet space is before a busy gathering begins.

If something happens while you are away

Ask the sitter to remove the pet from the source and call your vet or a pet poison control service right away. They should have ready what the pet ate, how much, when, and the pet's weight. They should not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional directs it. Packaging or a sample may help the vet identify the item.

General information only, not veterinary advice. Follow your veterinarian's advice for your individual pet. For further guidance, see ASPCA's holiday safety tips. Wag & Wild Goods is not affiliated with or endorsed by the linked organization.