You’ve booked the flights. Locked in the accommodation. Set the out-of-office.
Now comes the part that tugs at the heartstrings… arranging care for your pet.
If you’re feeling a little nervous about being apart, you’re in very good company. Most pet parents worry more than their pets do.
The good news? With the right preparation and the right Mad Paws sitter, your pet’s stay can feel familiar, calm and comforting, whether they’re a social butterfly, a quiet homebody, or somewhere in between. In most cases, they’ll actually be enjoying a holiday way more fun and full of adventure than you!
Here’s how to help everyone feel confident before you head off.
Tips to helping ease first stay nerves when booking a Mad Paws Pet Sitter:
#1. Choose a sitter who suits your pet
Every pet has their own personality, routine and quirks, and Mad Paws sitters do too.
From energetic dogs who thrive on walks and playtime, to independent cats who prefer a calm home and their own space, to small animals who need gentle, attentive care, there’s a sitter to match. Take time to read profiles and reviews, and look for experience with pets similar to yours.
Ask about daily routines, supervision, sleeping arrangements and how they handle things like medications or special needs. The right fit makes all the difference.
#2. Book a meet & greet for peace of mind
A meet & greet helps turn a stranger into a familiar face.
Meeting your sitter ahead of time gives your pet the chance to settle in more easily when the stay begins. It’s also your opportunity to walk through routines, ask questions and get a feel for the sitter’s approach.
Many pet parents find this step incredibly reassuring. It’s one less unknown, and one more reason to relax.
#3. Share the important details
A little information goes a long way. Leaving clear instructions helps your sitter care for your pet just the way you would. This might include:
- Feeding schedules and portion sizes
- Medication instructions, if applicable
- Vet contact details and an emergency contact
- Any fears, triggers, likes or dislikes
The beauty of Mad Paws is that there’s an in-built pet profile, where you can enter all this information just once, and have it ready for any sitter you choose – for your upcoming booking and for every booking thereafter!
Think of it as your pet’s personal care guide. The more your sitter knows, the more personalised the experience can be.
#4. Pack a few familiar comforts
Familiar smells and items can be incredibly soothing.
What to pack for your pet’s stay with a sitter: Bringing along your pet’s usual food, favourite toys, bedding or blankets can help them feel safe and settled in a new environment. Even small comforts can make a big difference, especially for pets who are more sensitive to change.
Keeping things as familiar as possible helps reduce stress and first stay nerves, and supports a smoother transition.
#5. Keep goodbyes calm and confident
Pets are wonderfully tuned in to our emotions.
As hard as it can be, try to keep farewells relaxed and low-key. A calm goodbye reassures your pet that everything is okay. Once you’re gone, most pets settle in far quicker than their humans expect.
Watch this short reel of pet parents, Chloe & Luke, dropping off Perri to a Pet Sitter >
#6. Enjoy updates while you’re away
No need to worry while you’re away, wondering how things are going. Throughout the booking period, your Mad Paws pet sitter will provide regular updates and photos. So you can be assured that your pet’s happy, relaxed and well cared for. Those little check-ins often turn travel nerves into ‘no worries’!
Want to know what a typical pet sitting stay looks like? See what pets do with Mad Paws Sitters >
Head off knowing you’ve done the right thing.
First stay nerves are normal. By choosing a Mad Paws sitter and preparing thoughtfully, you’ve set your pet up for a positive, comfortable stay.
They’re safe. They’re cared for. They’re in loving hands. Trusted hands. Award-winning hands, in fact!
And you? You’re free to enjoy your time away, knowing your pet is exactly where they should be.
Download the Mad Paws app and get started:
