Does anyone have a general checklist of things to bring for overnight stays at owners home?
For an overnight stay at the owner's home, I pack: My dog (yes,we stay together), his food, healthy treats, harness, collar/tag, leash, dog bed. Food, snacks, and beverages for me in my own containers that can be heated/chilled (plan to use nothing of theirs). Extra changes of clothing, undergarments including extra socks (for same day just in case, as well as next day). Layers are helpful and having an extra jacket. Overnight clothes that I would not hesitate being seen in if I had to quickly go outside with the dogs for any reason. Toiletries (toothbrush, paste, floss, brush, comb, etc.) Extra leashes for using with the other dogs. Phone, charge, laptop, and sometimes something to read/write/do.
I'm still trying to bring less, but it's getting hard! I recently had a 2 week stay and was mortified when I realized I needed to ask my client to help me bring in a bag of my portioned/frozen dinners I'd put together just for that stay. I didn't realize I couldn't lift it until I was trying to get settled in the house (my boyfriend had packed the truck for me).
I bring: Coffee, creamer, a french press (I'm surprised how many people drink coffee but have no means of making it at home!)
Also I bring toilet paper, paper towels, laundry detergent if the stay is 3+ days, and all of my toiletries in travel containers. The laundry detergent lets me wash/re-wear clothes instead of having to bring more. I only bring enough to get me through 2 days, so on the third day, I wash.
My pillow, a blanket, and plenty of food/snacks for myself especially on long stays (on short stays, it's just easier to either run home for dinner or grab a bite nearby). Beyond that, like Deb said, layers, phone, charger, laptop, etc.
I provide a checklist for the owners as well, which I give them at the M&G if I think the stay will be booked.
I have almost everything they might need, but I have found that dogs behave better and are more comfortable when they have their own things around them. I want to disrupt their normal routine as little as possible.
I normally send a text from the Rover dashboard (so I can cut and paste) with the following. Sometimes I change the wording around based on the pups but you get the gist. Hope this helps!! Chris
We are looking forward to having XXXXX over for their stay. Here's a quick checklist of items that you may want to bring so they will be comfortable :)
• Food/food bowls • Treats - if they have special treats otherwise we have a bunch • Bedding (blanket and/or bed) • Toys - we have a bunch of toys but favorites you can bring along • Collar/Harness & Leash • Crate (if crate trained) - we have two small crates and a big one but some dogs seems to prefer their own • Pads (for pad trained dogs) • Medication (if any)
Everything on the list is optional other than the food. We have food but don’t want to change it and risk an upset stomach :)