Before leaving your small dog with a pet-sitter or at a boarding facility, it’s important to leave vital information about you and your dog for caregivers.
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"Just as parents leave a checklist for a babysitter, you can leave a checklist for your pet sitter," writes famed dog behaviorist Cesar Milan in his blog.
Milan recommends including information like your veterinarian's phone number and address; the closest 24-hour emergency hospital; any medications they will need while you are gone; a list of allergies; a feeding schedule; how often to check their water bowl; any behavioral issues; if you allow them on the furniture; whether they get people food; and how often they get a treat.
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Veterinarian Dr. Debra Primovic recommends leaving not only emergency instructions, but a credit card number in the case of an emergency vet visit. She also says it’s a good idea to leave a copy of your dog’s medical records for reference and information with its tag and microchip numbers.
And, she says to be specific with health information. "For example, if your pet requires medications, ensure the name of the medication, dose (both in milligrams and number of pills), and frequency are clearly indicated," she writes in her blog on meadowbrookvet.com.
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