Getting a house and pet sitter? Before you leave home, take time to prepare your house so your sitter can care for everything with ease. A clean and welcoming space doesn’t just help your sitter do a better job—it also shows respect for the person looking after your pets and your home. From a sitter’s perspective, walking into a tidy, organized home makes a world of difference. It allows us to focus on keeping your pets happy and your home safe and sound.
In this post, I’ll share what makes a sitter feel comfortable and appreciated, and why it matters if you want someone responsible to return again in the future.
My Journey as a House and Pet Sitter
Before I started house and pet sitting, I never imagined it would become such a meaningful part of my life. I had just quit my job, hoping to find something more rewarding—something with purpose. I wanted more freedom, connection, and a chance to live life differently.
That’s when I came across house and pet sitting. It was the perfect fit. I could care for people’s homes and beloved pets while exploring new places. Over time, I’ve stayed in all kinds of homes and met so many sweet pets along the way.
As a sitter, I’ve learned how important it is for homeowners to prepare their home so the sitter feels comfortable and ready to care for everything. A clean, welcoming space makes it easier to settle in, focus on the pets, and treat the home with the same respect I would my own. When homeowners prepare their space with care, it truly makes the experience better for everyone.
What I Love About House and Pet Sitting
There’s something really special about house and pet sitting. I love being trusted to look after a home and take care of pets while their owners are away. It feels good to give them peace of mind knowing everything is in good hands.
One of the best parts? The pets, of course! I’ve met so many sweet dogs and curious cats, and each one has their own little personality. I get to go on walks, give belly rubs, and enjoy all the fun parts of being a pet parent—without the long-term responsibility. All of these pets have truly stolen my heart!
And let’s not forget about the homes. I’ve stayed in quiet neighborhoods, small towns, and even near the beach. Each place has something unique. I get to live like a local, enjoy new surroundings, and keep things running smoothly while the homeowners are gone. It’s like a little adventure every time.
How to Prepare Your Home for a Sitter
As a house and pet sitter, I can tell you—walking into a clean, well-prepared home makes a big difference. It helps me feel comfortable right away and lets me focus on what matters most: caring for your pets and keeping your home safe and sound.
When homeowners take the time to prepare their space, it sets the tone for a smooth stay. It shows the sitter that you care, and that makes us want to care even more. A little effort goes a long way in creating a great experience for everyone—including your pets!
In this section, I’ll share simple tips to help you get your home ready before your sitter arrives.
1. Clean and Tidy Up the Space
Before your house or pet sitter arrives, take time to prepare your home by giving it a quick clean. You don’t have to deep clean, but fresh sheets, clean towels, and wiped-down surfaces make a big difference. A tidy home helps your sitter feel welcome and ready to focus on caring for your pets and keeping everything in order.
From my experience as a sitter, this part can sometimes be a challenge—especially in the kitchen. I love to cook during my stays, so having a clean and well-prepared kitchen makes a big difference. Taking a moment to make sure everything is clean and ready to use can really help create a more enjoyable stay for your sitter.
2. Leave Clear Instructions
Every home is different, so it really helps to write down the basics. Include your pet’s feeding schedule, any medications, and daily routines. Add simple house details like how to use the thermostat, Wi-Fi password, or where to find extra supplies.
If you’re using a platform like TrustedHousesitters, upload everything to the Welcome Guide so your sitter can access it easily.
3. Make a Little Room for Your Sitter
Prepare a small area in your home just for your sitter. Clear out a drawer, leave a bit of room in the fridge, and make sure the bed is made with clean linens. When sitters feel like there’s space for them in your home, they can relax and feel more at ease—just like you would in a guest space.
4. Stock the Basics
You don’t need to provide a full pantry, but a few essentials help. Make sure your sitter has access to things like toilet paper, hand soap, trash bags, cleaning supplies, and of course—plenty of pet food.
When you prepare your home with these basics, it shows thoughtfulness and helps your sitter keep everything running smoothly.
5. Share Emergency Contacts and House Info
To help your house and pet sitter feel confident and prepared in your home, leave a list of emergency contacts. This should include your number, your vet, and a local friend or neighbor in case something comes up.
Also, show where to find important items in the home—like the fuse box, water shut-off, and spare keys. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your home and pets safe.
Well-Prepared Home for Your Sitters
A well-prepared home does more than just welcome your sitter. It sets the stage for trust, comfort, and care. When everything is clear, clean, and ready, it allows us to focus fully on what matters most: keeping your pets happy and your home running smoothly.
Small touches like clean sheets, a stocked kitchen, and simple instructions can go a long way. These thoughtful details help your sitter feel comfortable and respected, which often leads to a more positive experience for everyone.
If you want a sitter who truly cares, taking the time to prepare your home shows that you care too. It makes us want to do our best and often makes us excited to return for future sits. A little effort now can create a smooth, stress-free stay and a trusted sitter relationship down the road.
