[VIDEO: 5-minute walkthrough of dog introduction to sitter's home]

Bringing a client's dog into your home for boarding requires careful preparation and gradual introduction. Here's how to ensure a smooth transition for both the dog and your household:

Before the Dog Arrives:

Step 1: Prepare Your Space

• Dog-Proof Areas - Remove hazards, secure trash cans, toxic plants

• Create Safe Zones - Set up quiet retreat areas with comfortable bedding

• Separate Resources - If you have pets, prepare separate food/water stations

• Secure Boundaries - Check fences, gates, and potential escape routes

[SCREENSHOT: Well-prepared room with dog bed, toys, and safety measures]

Step 2: Gather Essential Information

• Medical Records - Vaccination status, medications, emergency vet info

• Dietary Requirements - Food type, amounts, feeding schedule

• Behavioral Notes - Triggers, fears, commands they know

• Emergency Contacts - Owner's number, backup contact, veterinarian

Step 3: Plan the Introduction

• Choose Calm Day - Avoid busy periods or gatherings

• Clear Your Schedule - Plan to be home for first 24-48 hours

• Prepare Family - Brief household members on interaction rules

• Remove Stress Triggers - Minimize noise, activity, and distractions

The First Day:

Step 4: Arrival and Initial Setup

• Neutral Meeting Space - Greet the dog outside your home first

• Calm Energy - Keep excitement levels low and voice soft

• Familiar Items - Use their bed, toys, and blankets from home

• Gradual Entry - Lead them in slowly, don't rush exploration

[SCREENSHOT: Sitter greeting dog in front yard before entering home]

Step 5: Establishing Routine

• Feeding Schedule - Maintain their normal meal times

• Potty Breaks - Take them out every 2-3 hours initially

• Exercise Needs - Follow their usual walk and play schedule

• Sleep Arrangements - Set up their bed in a quiet, secure area

If You Have Resident Pets:

Step 6: Careful Pet Introductions

• Separate Spaces - Keep pets in different rooms initially

• Scent Introduction - Let them smell each other's bedding

• Neutral Territory - First face-to-face meeting outside the home

• Supervised Interactions - Always monitor initial meetings

[SCREENSHOT: Two dogs meeting with sitter supervision in backyard]

Step 7: Managing Multi-Pet Dynamics

• Separate Feeding - Prevent food guarding or competition

• Individual Attention - Give each pet one-on-one time

• Monitor Body Language - Watch for signs of stress or tension

• Provide Escape Routes - Ensure both pets can retreat if needed

First Week Guidelines:

Step 8: Establishing Comfort

• Consistent Rules - Maintain same boundaries as client's home

• Positive Reinforcement - Reward calm, good behavior

• Gradual Freedom - Slowly increase access to more areas

• Communication - Update client with photos and progress reports

Step 9: Handling Adjustment Issues

• Anxiety Signs - Panting, pacing, whining, destructive behavior

• Appetite Changes - Monitor eating habits and report concerns

• Sleep Disruption - Expect some initial restlessness

• Bathroom Accidents - Clean thoroughly, don't punish

[SCREENSHOT: Dog relaxing comfortably in sitter's living room]

Safety Considerations:

Emergency Preparedness:

• Vet Information - Have client's vet and emergency clinic numbers

• Medical History - Know about allergies, medications, health issues

• Poison Control - Keep pet poison control number accessible

• First Aid Kit - Basic supplies for minor injuries

Household Safety:

• Secure Hazards - Chemicals, medications, small objects

• Check Fencing - Ensure yard is completely secure

• Gate Management - Always check gates are latched

• Visitor Protocol - Inform family about dog's presence

Red Flags - When to Call the Client:

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea

• Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours

• Aggressive behavior toward you or your pets

• Signs of illness (lethargy, excessive panting, difficulty breathing)

• Escape attempts or destructive behavior

Building Trust:

• Regular Updates - Send photos and videos throughout the day

• Honest Communication - Report any issues immediately

• Follow Instructions - Stick to the routine and rules discussed

• Professional Boundaries - Don't make changes without permission

Long-term Success:

• Consistent Routine - Dogs thrive on predictability

• Positive Associations - Make your home a happy place

• Gradual Independence - Slowly increase alone time

• Prepare for Departure - Help transition back to owner smoothly