Always check fence gates before letting a dog outside. You may not be the only one helping take care of an owner’s home while they are on vacation, and gates may be left open by lawn mowers or house cleaners. Always lock the doors, and make sure you don’t step outside without the key, just in case the doorknob is the type that can lock behind you. Do one last check. Particularly with walks and drop-in visits, dogs spend a good amount of time alone in the home. Walk through the area the dog will stay in and check that all trash can lids are locked, no food is on the counters, and that any gates or crates set up are secure.