Headed Out of Town? Don’t Forget to Pet-Proof Your Home Before You Go!

At Dogs On The Run, we know how much thought you put into choosing the right pet care professional for your family. Whether you're heading off on a weekend getaway or a long summer escape, you want peace of mind knowing your pets are safe, comfortable, and cared for.

One of the best ways to set your pet—and your professional—up for success? Pet-proofing your home before you leave.

Here’s why it matters—and how to make it easy.

🏡 Why Pet-Proofing Is So Important

Your pet care professional is there to love and care for your pets while you’re away—but they’re also working in yourspace. Making a few small adjustments in advance helps:

• Keep your pets safe

• Reduce accidents or stress

• Prevent miscommunications

• Give your sitter confidence to focus fully on your pet’s care

In short: pet-proofing helps your professional do their best work—and keeps things running smoothly while you're away.

✅ A Quick Pet-Proofing Checklist

🔒 Secure Hazard Zones

• Close off rooms pets shouldn’t enter

• Make sure doors and windows latch properly

• Remove access to garages, utility areas, or unsafe balconies

🧼 Remove Temptations

• Store food, snacks, and treats out of reach

• Tuck away shoes, socks, cords, and valuables (especially for curious chewers!)

• Empty trash bins or use locking lids

🌿 Check Your Plants

• Remove or move any plants that may be toxic to pets

• If you’re unsure, ask your sitter or consult ASPCA’s toxic plant list

🧴 Lock Up Cleaning Supplies & Medications

• Double-check cabinets, closets, and laundry rooms

• Keep anything chemical, sharp, or questionable behind closed doors

🐶 Prep Pet Areas

• Set out clean food and water bowls

• Leave leashes, waste bags, and supplies in a visible, easy-to-reach spot

• Clean out crates or litter boxes before departure

📝 Leave Clear Instructions

• Feeding, meds, quirks, and emergency contacts

• Wi-Fi, gate codes, vet info—whatever helps your professional care like you would

🐾 Pro Tip: Think Like Your Pet

If you were your pet—bored, curious, or a little stressed—what might you get into? Walk through your home from theirperspective and remove anything tempting, confusing, or dangerous.

Let’s Set Everyone Up for Success

Your DOTR professional is ready to provide safe, loving care—but a few quick steps on your end go a long way toward a smooth experience.

Questions about how to prepare? Don’t hesitate to ask your sitter or our concierge team. We’re here to help make your pet’s staycation feel just as good as your vacation.

Dogs On The Run®—Where care is more than a visit, it’s a relationship.