Contact your sitter to confirm the particulars of the visit. If there is any change in the itinerary, flight plan, phone number where you can be reached or phone number of the emergency contact, your sitter needs to know.

Make sure that more than enough food is available, and that the sitter knows where it can be found.

If you have cats, make sure the litter box is clean before you leave, and that there is enough litter to last the trip. Let the sitter know where the scoop, litter and bags are.

Make sure your dog's collar/halti/harness etc. is in good shape and not frayed in any spot. Tags must be worn outside the home so if the animal doesn't wear the tags in the house, leave them where the sitter can see them.

If your pet is on medication, put it in a safe place away from the animal but make sure the sitter knows where to find it. Advise of medication changes before you leave.

If your pets eat canned food, don't forget to leave a can opener handy.

Paper towels, cleaners and garbage bags should be replenished before you leave.

Watering can should be available if you are having plants maintained.

If you have a mailbox key and the sitter is to pick up your mail, ensure that the sitter has a key.

If a second key hasn't been given to the sitter, make sure to test it and then mail it so that it arrives before you leave.

If you have an alarm, go over the procedures to arm and disarm it with the sitter before you leave. If the security company needs to know the sitter will be in your home, notify them before you leave.

Ensure that the sitter knows of your pet's favorite hiding places. Make sure your house and yard is "pet-proofed" before leaving.

It's recommended that you not make any changes to your pet's food before you leave. A change in food often leads to stomach upset, so it's better to do it after you get back so you can keep an eye on the animal.

If your pet is due for shots during your vacation, consider having them done a few weeks before. If an animal is going to react to a vaccine, it usually happens within a few weeks of administration.

Obtain copies of your animal's records from your vet, and leave them for the sitter. In case of emergency, this will assist the emergency vet of your pet's history and could cut down on costs.