ClauseryFree pet sitting agreement template (Word)
An agreement between a pet owner and a pet sitter covering pet details, care instructions (feeding, walks, meds), dates, fees, key pickup/return, vet authorisation and liability.
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A pet sitting agreement (or dog-sitting contract) tells the sitter exactly how to care for each pet — feeding schedule, medications, walks, playtime, emergency contact, and authorised vet. It also covers payment, key access, house rules, cancellation terms and liability.
Pets cannot communicate issues directly, so detailed written instructions are essential. Include a vet authorisation clause so the sitter can get emergency care if you cannot be reached.
What to include#
- Owner and sitter. Owner name, address and contact; sitter name; emergency contact for owner (friend/family); backup contact if owner is unreachable.
- Pet details. Name, species, breed, age, sex, microchip number, vet name/clinic and phone for each pet; behaviour notes (aggression, anxiety, children/pets to avoid).
- Care instructions. Feeding (what, when, how much), medications (dose, frequency), walks/exercise, playtime/litter/cleanup, allowed treats and forbidden foods, bedtime routine.
- Dates, access and fees. Start and end dates, key pickup/return, alarm/house access, visits per day or live-in, total fee and deposit, payment method, cancellation/refund policy.
- Vet authorisation and liability. Sitter is authorised to seek emergency vet care at owner expense; pet health disclosure; liability limits for accidents/illness; sitter is not responsible for pre-existing conditions.
How to fill it in#
Step 1: Do a meet-and-greet first
Have sitter meet the pets before the booking; share personality quirks and routines.
Step 2: Write detailed care instructions
Portion sizes, medication timing, forbidden foods (chocolate, grapes, xylitol), emergency commands.
Step 3: Provide vet info and authorisation
Give vet name, address and 24h emergency clinic; sign authorisation so they can approve urgent treatment.
Step 4: Handle keys securely
Exchange keys in person; agree return procedure; do not leave keys in obvious hiding places.
Step 5: Confirm payment
Pay deposit to book; settle final payment on return; include cancellation/refund terms.
Related templates and guides
Questions
Should sitters be bonded/insured?
Professional pet sitters carry liability insurance and bonding; hobby sitters may not — decide your risk tolerance.
Who pays vet bills in an emergency?
Owner pays — include a clause authorising the sitter to seek care up to a spending limit and confirming owner responsibility for bills.
What about bites or injuries?
Disclose any aggression history; owner is typically liable for pet bites. Sitters may want insurance.
Live-in vs drop-in visits?
State clearly whether sitter stays overnight, number of visits per day, and whether they may bring guests.
Do I pay if I come home early?
Typically yes for booked days unless agreed otherwise — sitters hold the time for you.
These are general templates, not legal or tax advice. Have anything unusual reviewed for your jurisdiction.