In short
What to bring
- Enough food for the full stay, pre-portioned if you can.
- A familiar bed, blanket, or crate so your dog feels at home.
- A favorite toy or two and any comfort items.
- Leash, harness, poop bags, and treats.
- Any medication, clearly labeled with doses and timing.
Feeding instructions
Write down how much, how often, and when — plus any allergies, food to avoid, and whether treats are okay. Keep it simple and specific.
Medication instructions
List each medication, the dose, the schedule, and how to give it. Note what to do if a dose is missed, and flag anything urgent.
Emergency contacts
Share your phone number, a backup contact, and your vet’s name and number. Mention the nearest emergency animal hospital if you know it. (Pawsada members can store vet and emergency info in their dog’s profile and share it with connected owners.)
Behavior notes
Be honest about how your dog behaves — around other dogs, kids, and strangers; on walks; when left alone; and at the door. The more the host knows, the better the stay goes.
Toy & comfort preferences
Note favorite games, what soothes your dog, and anything that’s off limits (counters, furniture, certain toys).
Crate & sleep routine
Explain where and when your dog sleeps, whether they’re crated, and any bedtime rituals. Consistency helps a dog settle in a new home.
How to thank another owner
A genuine thank-you goes a long way — and the best thanks is returning the favor. Leave an honest review, and offer your home next time they travel. That’s how a one-time swap becomes a lasting exchange.
Frequently asked questions
- What should I bring when another owner watches my dog?
- Bring your dog's food, any medication with instructions, a familiar bed or crate, a favorite toy, a leash, and written notes covering feeding, routine, and emergency and vet contacts.
- What if my dog has special needs?
- Share the details up front in your dog's profile and during the meet-and-greet so another owner can decide if they're comfortable. For dogs needing medical supervision, a professional facility may be more appropriate.
- Is reciprocal dog care safe?
- Pawsada gives you tools to make an informed choice — Verified badges, member reviews, meet-and-greet checklists, and vet/emergency info storage. You meet the other owner, judge the fit, and decide for yourself. Pawsada does not run background checks, vet, supervise, or guarantee any member or stay.
Keep exploring
Dog-Friendly Apartments
How to find and choose a dog-friendly apartment.
Dog-Friendly Neighborhoods
What makes a neighborhood great for dogs.
What Is a Dog Sleepover?
Why dogs prefer familiar homes, and how to prepare.
Can Dogs Have Best Friends?
How dog friendships form and why familiar dogs matter.
What Is a Dog Passport?
Your dog's stays, friendships, badges, and story.
Dog Boarding Alternatives
The complete guide to your options when you travel.
