Traveling Without Your Dog? A Complete Checklist
TL;DR: Heading out of town without your pup? Whether they’re staying with a sitter, boarding, or crashing with a trusted friend, a little prep goes a long way in helping them feel secure and helping you leave without second-guessing everything.
Here’s what you’ll get in this guide:
How to prep your dog emotionally and practically
What to pack and write down for your sitter
A free printable checklist
FAQs about sitter, routines, and goodbyes
How to Prepare
You’ve booked the trip, packed the bags, and maybe even made peace with leaving your four-legged bestie behind. Still, there’s that lingering worry: will they eat? Will they sleep okay? Will the sitter know how they like their food just so?
Even the most confident pets can feel off when their routine changes. But with a few thoughtful steps, you can help your pup feel safe and settled. You’ll also give yourself something just as important—peace of mind while you’re gone.
Choose the Right Care Option
There’s no universal “best” setup for every dog—it depends on their personality, health, and how they handle change.
If your pup thrives on routine, prefers quiet environments, or needs medication, an in-home sitter may be the most comfortable choice. More social companions who are used to crates and new places might do well in a structured boarding facility. And if there’s a friend or family member they already adore? That can be the most familiar and calming option of all. Whatever you choose, go with consistent and clear expectations. A calm caregiver who follows their routine often makes all the difference.
What Your Sitter Should Know
Even the most experienced sitter can’t know your pet’s quirks without a little guidance — and writing everything down helps avoid confusion later.
Leave them with clear notes on:
Feeding instructions, with exact amounts and timing
Medications (names, doses, how and when to give them)
Bathroom and walk schedules
Triggers, habits, and anything behavior-related
Toys or enrichment ideas
Emergency contacts and your vet’s info
How often you’d like updates and in what format
Want to keep it all in one spot? Download the free Dog Sitter Checklist to make it easier for everyone!
Pack for Comfort, Not Just Basic
Sure, they’ll need the essentials: food, bowls, leash, meds. But what really helps most pets settle in is the stuff that smells and feels like home.
Be sure to pack:
Their everyday bed or crate
A favorite toy or chew
A blanket or towel with familiar scents
A white noise machine or playlist if they’re used to it
Did You Know? Dogs rely more on scent than sight or sound. Including something that smells like you (like a worn shirt), can ease anxiety way more than we realize.
Keep Goodbyes Short and Low-Stress
It’s tempting to make your goodbye long and emotional, but that often adds stress instead of easing it.
Pets mirror our energy. When you seem worried or overly sentimental, they can feel like something’s wrong. Keep your goodbye low-key. Let your sitter distract them with a treat or toy while you head out. Avoid sneaking out, but don’t drag it out either. Calm, clear, and kind is best. And if your dog struggles with separation? Try practicing short departures leading up to your trip. A few “mini reps” go a long way in making the real thing easier.
What to Expect While You’re Away
It’s totally normal to miss your pet , but spiraling over every “what if” won’t help anyone. Let your sitter know what works best for you, and try to trust the plan you put in place. If you’re using a pet cam, check in if you need to—try your best to resist the urge to micromanage. You’ve got this, and so do they.
Decide ahead of time how often you want updates:
Daily texts
Photos every couple of days
Only if there’s an issue
Pro Tip: Set a time each day to check for updates (and then stop). This gives you peace of mind without slipping into constant worry mode and helps you actually enjoy your trip!
Coming Home and Settling Back In
Some pets go wild when you walk through the door, while others play it cool or might even act a little distant at first. Both reactions are normal and temporary. Help them adjust by easing back into your routine. Give them space to sniff your bags, get a drink, and settle in. Then return to the rhythms they know best.
Quick tips:
Keep things calm and predictable
Offer rest before diving into walks or social time
Don’t feel like you have to overdo treats or attention
Be present and consistent—that’s what they’ve missed most!
FAQs
Is it okay to leave my dog while I travel?
Yes. With the right care and prep, most dogs adjust well to short-term separations, especially if they’re in a familiar routine.Will my dog think I abandoned them?
Probably not. Pets live in the moment more than we do. When they have comfort, routine, and care, they usually settle in just fine.Should I use a sitter or boarding facility?
Depends on your pet’s personality and needs. Sitters offer one-on-one attention and routine; boarding facilities may add structure and social time.What if my dog won’t eat while I’m gone?
It’s common. Stick to their routine, use familiar bowls, and try a little topper or warm wet food. Most pups bounce back once they settle in.
Free Printable: Dog Sitter Prep Sheet
Make it easier for your sitter and your peace of mind! This free Dog Sitter Checklist can come in handy—use it to fill in your pet’s feeding schedule, routine, quirks, vet info, and more.
Final Thoughts
Leaving your pup behind isn’t always easy, even when the trip ahead is exciting. But the prep you’re doing now shows how much you care. You’re helping them feel safe while you’re gone, and that matters. They might miss you, sure but they’ll be okay. And when you come back through that door? Everything that matters will still be waiting!
