10 Things You’ll Find In Every Pet Sitter’s Backpack
We asked some Rover pet sitters what they always have on their pre-stay packing list. Their responses ranged from fun to practical to business-savvy. Here are the 10 essential items that experienced pet sitters never leave home without.
1. Treats
Edibles are a surefire way to get a dog to love you. Of course, check with their pet parent first to make sure their dog doesn’t have any allergies.
One good choice for all ages, whether puppy, adolescent, or senior, are Natural Balance Mini Rewards. The main ingredient is high-quality duck, chicken, or lamb, and they contain less than five calories per treat. This is a favorite training treat for adult dogs, and especially for dogs who tend to overeat. You can give plenty of these Mini Rewards without worrying about calorie intake.
Shop on Chewy2. Poop Bags
A savvy pet sitter always packs along a few poop bags—just in case their pet’s parent ran out.
Take along a roll of the Rover Store’s Original Poop Bags. They meet the highest industry standards for compostability and biodegradability, so you’ll be able to scoop and dispose without fuss. Each easy-to-pack roll has 15 9″ x 13″ compostable bags.
Buy Poop Bags at the Rover Store3. Lint Roller
Using a pet-hair remover is so much easier than throwing away your black clothes.
Sticky tape will work in a pinch, but our experts recommend carrying a lint roller like the ChomChom roller for your pet-hair removal needs. Once you’ve brought your furry friend home from a romp in the the park, this will get you cleaned up in a jiffy.
Shop on Chewy4. Comfortable Tennis Shoes
One of the joys of dog sitting is an excuse to take long walks on on the beach (or around the neighborhood).
Be sure to bring along right shoes, ones that provide a lot of mileage. We’re hearing lots of oohs and ahs about Allbirds runners. They’re comfortable, stylish—and washable. With these kicks, you can have as much fun at the dog park as your pup does.
Discover Allbirds Here5. A Collapsible Water Bowl and Dog Water Bottle
On hot days, dogs can quickly dehydrate. Luckily, it’s easy to bring hydration anywhere.
The Highwave AutoDogMug combines water and bowl, and wastes no water. Just squeeze to fill the bowl, and after your dog has slurped their fill, any excess releases back into the bottle. The removable strap gives you the option of attaching it to your pack.
Shop on Chewy6. Toys!
Check with the pet parent to see what kinds of toys their dog likes but won’t destroy in 30 seconds (it can be a fine balance). You can even bring along the dog’s own toy from home—just make sure to take it out of your bag before the end of the stay.
Easy to pack and easy to keep track of, the inexpensive Gnawsome 4.5″ Spiky Squeaker Ball Dog Toy is a fave of pet sitters as well as medium and large dogs—and ambitious pups. Our reviewers rated it “indestructible.” You might want to buy several of them (see #9 on our list to find out why.)
Shop Toys on Chewy7. Pillow and Blanket
If you have trouble sleeping in new places, this could help make you more comfortable. Don’t want to pack your whole bed? We get it. Luckily, you can find camping pillows and blankets that are comfortable, compact, and inexpensive.
A good choice to tuck into your bag is the World’s Best Cozy-Soft Microfleece Travel Blanket , with an ample 50 x 60 inches of coverage. Easy to pack—and easy to wash if the pets cuddle up with you on the bed or the sofa. In fact, they’ll hope you leave it with them.
Buy on Amazon8. Your Business Cards
Have you ever noticed how many more people on the street want to talk to you if you’re walking a cute dog? If they mention they have a dog too—and it feels natural—you can feel free to give them one of your pet sitter business cards.
Shop Business Cards at the Rover Store9. A Little Thank-You Gift
Enjoy your time with their dog? At the end of a stay, leave a handwritten thank-you card and a small toy for their dog. It’s a nice gesture and will leave a lasting impression.
Shop Thank You Cards at the Rover Store10. More Poop Bags
It’s just easier this way. And this little fellow will thank you!