9 Simple Ways to Prepare for Your Charleston Pet Sitter

Kimberly Layman
3 days ago
4 min read

A Charleston Pet Parent’s Guide to Smooth, Stress-Free Travel

When it’s time to head out of town, whether for a weekend getaway or a longer trip, you want your pets to feel secure, comfortable, and cared for. That’s where your professional pet sitter comes in. At Paws Up!, we’re here to be your pet’s trusted companion while you’re away, but a smooth visit starts with a little preparation.

Cute dog in a suitcase in Charleston, SC

Here’s how to get everything ready before your sitter arrives.

1. Update Your Pet Profiles and Care Instructions

Before you leave, log into your client portal and make sure your pet’s care instructions are up to date.

Be sure to include:

Any recent changes to feeding routines or medication
Updated notes on behavior or health
New treats, toys, or comfort routines
Feeding instructions and meal portion details
Any quirks we need to be aware of

Even the small stuff matters. We tailor each visit to your pet’s specific needs, so having accurate information helps us care for them just like you would.

2. Double Check Your Emergency Contact Information

We ask all clients to provide a reliable emergency contact.

Ideally, this is someone local who:

Knows your pet
Has access to your home
Can step in if you're unreachable
Can cover in case we are unable to reach your home during severe weather

Having a backup plan offers peace of mind for everyone involved.

3. Scoop the Litter Before You Go

If you have cats, please scoop the litter box before you leave. It’s not just about cleanliness. Scooping gives us a clear picture of your cat’s bathroom habits, which can be an early indicator of health issues. We monitor litter box use closely during each visit, so starting with a clean slate helps us spot anything unusual.

4. Gather Food, Meds, and Supplies for Your Pet Sitter

Place everything we’ll need in easy to access locations (but where your pet can't reach them) and ensure they are listed on your profile under "Visit Specific Instructions".

That includes:

Pet food and treats
Pet bowls or plates
Medications, clearly labeled with dosage and frequency
Litter, potty pads, or waste bags
Cleaning supplies, if needed
Extra toys or comfort items

If you have multiple pets, label supplies so there’s no confusion.

5. Refresh Water Bowls

Please leave fresh water in your pet’s bowl before you leave. Hydration is especially important in Charleston’s warm, humid climate. We’ll refresh bowls each visit, but starting with clean water helps us stay on track.

6. Tidy Up Favorite Pet Spaces

Before you go, take a moment to prep your pet’s hangout zones:

Wash bedding or blankets, if needed
Clear any chewable or unsafe items from the floor
Place favorite toys or enrichment items where we can easily find them
If your pet uses a crate, leave it clean and ready.

7. Test Locks, Alarms, and Entry Codes

If your home uses a keypad, smart lock, or alarm system, double-check that everything works properly. If your alarm code or door code has changed, be sure that info is updated in your profile. Also confirm that any backup keys are still functional.

Woman checking her alarm system in Charleston, SC

8. Let Us Know About Any Visitors or House Rules

If anyone else will be entering your home - housekeeper, landscaper, friend, or neighbor - just let us know in advance. This helps us avoid confusion and keeps your pet secure. Also share any house guidelines, like where your dog is allowed to roam or whether you’d like us to bring in the mail, or put the trash on the curb.

9. Check Your Lockbox or Keyless Entry

If you use a lockbox, please confirm that the key is inside and accessible before you leave. Test it to make sure it works. If you rely on a keyless entry, check the battery level and update your access code if needed. If possible, leave a backup key in case of a keypad issue.

Reliable access means we can focus on what matters most, your pet!

Pro Tips:

Request Your Pet Care Visits As Early As Possible

Once your travel dates are set, go ahead and request your pet care visits. Our calendar fills up quickly during weekends, holidays, Summer, and school breaks. Booking early helps secure your preferred dates and time slots.

Add Your Departure And Return Times To Your Request

Provide the times you will be leaving and returning to your home so we can schedule your visits accordingly. This prevents your pet care provider from coming while you're still loading up the car!

Preparing for your pet sitter doesn’t take long, but it makes all the difference. With a few simple steps, you help us deliver the thoughtful, stress-free care your pets deserve.

At Paws Up!, we treat your pets like family and your home with care and respect. If you’re planning a trip and need a dependable sitter in the Charleston area, we’re here to help.