The Ultimate Travel Checklist for Families Leaving Pets at Home
How to Ensure Stress-Free, Safe, and Seamless Pet Care While You’re Away
Traveling is exciting, but leaving your pets behind can be one of the hardest parts. Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend or an extended trip, planning ahead ensures your pets feel comfortable, your home stays secure, and your Pet Care Professional has everything they need to provide exceptional care.
This guide gives families a simple, reliable checklist to prepare for travel with confidence. When your home is ready and your pet’s routines are clear, your professional can create the smooth, stress-free experience that DOTR is known for.
Share Your Travel Schedule
Clear communication helps your professional keep a consistent routine.
Provide:
• Departure and return dates
• Time you’ll leave and expected time home
• Whether you need a final visit the night you return
• Emergency contact info in case plans change
The more your professional knows, the better they can support your pets.
Confirm Your Pet’s Daily Routine
Pets thrive on familiarity, especially when the family is away. Write down:
• Feeding schedule and portions
• Walk times or potty routines
• Medications with instructions
• Playtime preferences
• Sleeping locations or comfort habits
These details help your professional make your home feel as normal as possible.
Prepare Your Home for Safety
A few simple steps go a long way. Check for:
• Locked doors, windows, and gates
• Clear access points for your professional
• Alarm instructions
• Hazard-free zones (holiday items, plants, toxic foods)
• Secure trash and laundry areas
A safe home is a stress-free home.
Set Out Supplies in One Easy Place
Professionals appreciate knowing where essentials are so they don’t need to search.
Helpful items to leave out:
• Food, treats, and bowls
• Leashes, harnesses, waste bags
• Litter supplies
• Towels or wipes
• Medications
• Cleaning materials for accidents
This ensures smooth visits from day one.
Double-Check Access Instructions
Before leaving, review:
• Door codes or keys
• Alarm arming/disarming steps
• Gate codes
• Parking notes
• Any quirks the house may have
Clear instructions prevent unnecessary delays or stress.
Leave a “Pet Personality Snapshot”
Professionals love this, and it makes a huge difference. Share:
• Favorite toys or comforts
• Social preferences
• Words or cues your pet responds to
• Recent behavior changes
• Anything that causes stress or fear
The more insight you provide, the stronger the bond during care.
Prepare for a Possible Travel Delay
Life happens. Weather changes, flights shift, plans extend.
Consider providing:
• Back-up contact
• Extra food
• Extra medication
• A note confirming extended care if needed
This ensures your pets are never left without support.
Review Communication Preferences
Tell your professional how often you’d like updates. Most families appreciate:
• Daily messages
• A few photos
• A highlight recap of the visit
• Notes about appetite, mood, or behavior
Consistent updates = complete peace of mind.
Secure Outdoor Areas
Check:
• Fences
• Gates
• Pool safety
• Yard hazards
• Loose boards or gaps
Outdoor safety reduces risk and gives your professional more confidence during walks or playtime.
Leave Emergency Contacts and Vet Info Visible
Include:
• Your veterinarian
• A trusted friend or neighbor
• Local emergency clinics
• Medication details
• Insurance info (if applicable)
Responsiveness during emergencies is key to excellent care.
Leaving pets at home doesn’t have to feel stressful. When you prepare your space thoughtfully, your professional can step in seamlessly, give your pets consistent care, and keep your home safe and comfortable. DOTR’s Concierge Team and accredited professionals are here to support your family every step of the way; before, during, and after your trip.
Ready to plan your upcoming travel? Our Concierge Team can match you with the right professional for your home, schedule, and pet’s unique needs.
