What I need before your first booking
This page covers three things:
• Your dog’s first walk
• Your cat’s first visit
• Your house-sitting handover
You can skim it.
Tick things off.
And know we’re both on the same page.
First Dog Walk Checklist
Before the first walk, please make sure I know:
Your dog
- Name, age, breed or mix
- Neutered or not
- Any medical conditions
- Medications and where they’re kept
Walking routine
- Preferred walk length
- Usual walking areas
- On-lead or off-lead
- Any recall limits
Behaviour
- Reactivity to dogs, people, bikes, and traffic
- Known fears or triggers
- Handling sensitivities
- Anything that helps them feel safe
Equipment
- Collar or harness used – no prong or ecollars
- Lead type – no sklip leads or adverse equipment
- Muzzle if required
- Where everything is kept
Home access
- Keys or entry code
- Alarm instructions if relevant
- Where towels, wipes, or treats are stored
Emergency
- Vet name and contact details
- Emergency contact if you’re unreachable
First Cat Visit Checklist
Before the first visit, please confirm:
Your cat
- Name and age
- Indoor or outdoor
- Microchipped or not
- Any health conditions
Feeding
- What food they have
- How much and when
- Treat rules
- Any food sensitivities
Litter
- Tray location
- Cleaning routine
- Spare litter location
Routine
- Favourite hiding spots
- Preferred play or interaction
- Handling preferences
- Any stress signs to watch for
Home basics
- Where bowls and supplies are kept
- Which rooms are off limits
- Windows or doors to keep closed
Emergency
- Vet details
- Emergency contact
- What to do if they don’t eat
House Sitting Handover Checklist
Before house sitting starts, I’ll need:
Pets
- Written routines for each animal
- Feeding times and amounts
- Medication instructions
- Walking or exercise expectations
The house
- Entry method and spare keys
- Alarm and lock instructions
- Heating and hot water basics
- Wi-Fi details
Day-to-day
- Post and deliveries
- Bins and bin days
- Plants that need watering
- Appliances I should or shouldn’t use
Boundaries
- Rooms that are private
- Guests allowed or not
- Any neighbour considerations
Contacts
- Emergency contact
- Vet details
- Preferred way to reach you
Why this matters
Clear handovers mean:
- Less stress for your pets
- Fewer messages mid-visit
- Safer, calmer care
- Better continuity if plans change
If you’re unsure about anything, just ask.
I’d rather know too much than not enough.