Pet Sitter House Rules: Setting Expectations Without Being That Person

Pet sitter house rules should cover pet care routines, home security protocols, guest policies, off-limit areas, and general cleanliness expectations. Clear rules prevent misunderstandings and ensure your sitter knows exactly what’s acceptable in your home—without you sounding like a control freak.

You’re letting a stranger into your home. They’ll sleep in your bed, use your bathroom, and have access to everything you own. Of course you have rules.

The challenge? Communicating boundaries without sounding like you’re micromanaging a professional who’s done this a hundred times before. You need rules clear enough to prevent problems but flexible enough to avoid insulting someone you hired for their expertise.

This is the line between “helpful guidance” and “here’s a 47-page manual on how to exist in my house.”

Why House Rules Matter (For Both of You)

House rules aren’t about control—they’re about clarity.

Your sitter doesn’t want to guess whether they can use your coffee maker or sit on your couch. They want explicit permission so they’re not second-guessing every decision. Rules eliminate awkwardness and prevent the “I didn’t know I wasn’t supposed to…” conversations when you return.

What happens without clear rules:

• Sitter doesn’t know which furniture is off-limits
• Your “nice” towels get used (and possibly ruined)
• Guest shows up unannounced because you never said no visitors
• Food gets eaten or left to rot because expectations weren’t clear
• Security protocols get ignored because you assumed they were obvious

What happens with clear rules:

• Sitter feels confident making decisions
• Your home stays secure and maintained
• Boundaries are respected naturally
• Everyone knows what success looks like
• No awkward confrontations when you return

Set expectations upfront. You’ll both be happier.

Pet Care Rules (The Non-Negotiables)

These aren’t suggestions—they’re requirements.

Feeding Routines

What to specify:

• Exact feeding times (not “morning and evening”)
• Portion sizes with measuring tools (not “about this much”)
• Which bowls to use (if your pet has preferences)
• Where food is stored and how to access it
• Any dietary restrictions or allergies

Be explicit about:

• No table scraps (if that’s your rule)
• No treats without permission
• Don’t switch food brands even if you run out (provide extras or instructions for emergency purchases)
• Whether your pet free-feeds or eats scheduled meals

Example rule: “Luna eats twice daily: breakfast at 7am (1/2 cup dry food from the blue bin) and dinner at 6pm (1/2 cup dry food + 1/4 can wet food from the fridge). She gets one dental treat after dinner. No table scraps, no matter how much she begs. If she refuses a meal, text me—don’t try to coax her with extras.”

For detailed feeding guidance, check our complete first-time pet sitter guide.

Exercise and Play Requirements

What to specify:

• Walk frequency and duration for dogs
• Preferred walking routes or areas to avoid
• Leash/harness requirements
• Play session length and favorite toys
• Activity restrictions (no dog parks, no off-leash, no rough play)

Be explicit about:

• Whether your pet is allowed outside unsupervised
• Fence security and gate rules
• Weather limitations (too hot, too cold)
• Time-of-day preferences

Example rule: “Max needs three walks daily: morning (20-30 min), midday (15 min), and evening (20-30 min). Use the blue harness, never the collar. Avoid the house with the aggressive dogs on Oak Street. He can go off-leash in our fenced backyard but ONLY if you double-check that the gate is latched. He’s an escape artist.”

Read our dog walking guide for professional best practices.

Sleeping Arrangements

What to specify:

• Where your pet sleeps at night
• Whether they’re allowed on furniture (couch, beds, chairs)
• Doors that need to stay open or closed
• Whether your pet sleeps with people or alone
• What to do if your pet tries to change the arrangement

Be explicit about:

• Bedroom access (if sitter is staying overnight)
• Whether your pet can sleep in the sitter’s bed
• Night-time bathroom routines
• What’s normal vs. concerning overnight behavior

Example rule: “Bella sleeps in her dog bed in the bedroom. She’ll try to get on the bed—don’t let her. If she whines at night, she probably needs to go out (last bathroom break should be around 10pm). Close the bedroom door or she’ll wander the house and knock things over.”

Behavior Boundaries

What to specify:

• Commands your pet knows
• Behaviors you’re actively training (don’t undermine progress)
• Things your pet isn’t allowed to do (begging, jumping, counter-surfing)
• How to handle unwanted behaviors
• Triggers to avoid (doorbell, other dogs, specific sounds)

Be explicit about:

• Whether you use positive reinforcement, corrections, or other training methods
• Commands that work vs. ones you’re still teaching
• What “no” means in your house

Example rule: “We’re training Duke not to jump on people. When he jumps, turn away and ignore him completely until all four paws are on the ground. Then calmly acknowledge him. Please don’t pet him or give attention when he’s jumping—it undoes weeks of training.”

For managing behavior-specific challenges, see our guides on handling shy cats and handling aggressive cats.

Home Security Rules (Protect Your Stuff)

Your sitter needs to know how to keep your home secure.

Locks and Alarms

What to specify:

• Which doors to lock when leaving
• Whether windows should stay closed or can be opened
• Alarm code and how to arm/disarm
• What to do if alarm triggers accidentally
• Deadbolt requirements
• Garage door protocols

Be explicit about:

• Doors that stick or require special handling
• Whether you want doors locked even when sitter is home
• Spare key location (if applicable)
• What to do if sitter gets locked out

Example rule: “Always lock the front door when you leave, even for quick walks. The deadbolt is sticky—you have to lift the door handle while turning the key. Arm the alarm using code 1234 within 30 seconds of locking up. If it goes off accidentally, call the alarm company immediately at [number] with passcode ‘blue moon’ or they’ll dispatch police.”

Cameras and Privacy

What to specify:

• Where cameras are located (legally required in many places)
• What cameras record (video only, audio + video)
• Whether you’ll be checking footage
• Privacy expectations in certain rooms

Be explicit about:

• Indoor vs. outdoor camera locations
• Whether sitter should avoid certain areas on camera
• Your checking frequency (are you watching in real-time or just reviewing if needed?)

Example rule: “We have security cameras at the front door, back door, and in the living room. They record video only (no audio). We check footage if we get security alerts but don’t monitor constantly. Guest bedroom and bathroom have no cameras.”

Don’t surprise your sitter with cameras. Disclose them upfront. It’s not just ethical—it’s often legally required.

Guest and Visitor Policies

What to specify:

• Whether guests are allowed at all
• If yes, how many and for how long
• Whether overnight guests are permitted
• Rules about other people having keys or access
• Whether friends can visit your pet

Be explicit about:

• Your comfort level with strangers in your home
• Background check expectations for visitors
• Overnight guest rules if you allow them
• Whether you need advance notice

Example rule: “No guests in the house, period. If you need social time, meet friends elsewhere. The exception: if there’s an emergency and you need help with the pets, you may contact my neighbor [Name] at [number]—they have a spare key and know our pets.”

Or, if you’re more flexible:

“Daytime visitors are fine, but no overnight guests. If someone visits, please let me know in advance who they are. Parties or large gatherings are not permitted.”

Cleanliness and Maintenance Rules (Leave It How You Found It)

Your sitter shouldn’t trash your house, but define what “clean” means.

Daily Cleanliness Standards

What to specify:

• Expectation for kitchen cleanliness (wash dishes daily, wipe counters, etc.)
• Bathroom standards (clean up after yourself, how often to clean litter boxes)
• Living space tidiness (pet hair management, toy pickup)
• Trash and recycling protocols

Be explicit about:

• Whether you expect them to clean beyond pet care
• What cleaning supplies to use and where they’re located
• How often to scoop litter boxes or clean up accidents
• Garbage day schedule

Example rule: “Please wash dishes daily and wipe down kitchen counters after cooking. Scoop the litter box once daily (scoop is next to the box, trash bags under the sink). Take trash out if full—garbage day is Tuesday morning, bins go to the curb Monday night. Vacuum if you notice excessive pet hair, but deep cleaning isn’t expected.”

For cat-specific standards, read our litter box cleaning guide.

Property Care

What to specify:

• Plant watering (if applicable)
• Mail collection
• Lawn or garden maintenance expectations
• Pool or hot tub rules
• Thermostat settings and energy use

Be explicit about:

• What the sitter is responsible for vs. what you’ve arranged separately (lawn service, etc.)
• How to operate appliances safely
• What to do if something breaks

Example rule: “Water the fern in the living room once while we’re gone (soil should feel dry before watering). Collect mail daily and leave it on the kitchen counter. Thermostat is set to 72°F—adjust if needed for comfort but keep it between 68-76°F. If something breaks, text me a photo and description—don’t try to fix it yourself unless it’s an emergency.”

Off-Limit Areas

What to specify:

• Rooms the sitter shouldn’t enter
• Closets or storage areas that should stay closed
• Pet-restricted zones
• Furniture that’s fragile or valuable

Be explicit about:

• Why areas are off-limits (helps sitters understand importance)
• What to do if pet goes into restricted area
• Emergency exceptions (fire, flood, pet emergency)

Example rule: “The home office is off-limits—door stays closed. The guest bedroom is yours to use, but the master bedroom is private. If the cat gets into the office somehow, just retrieve her and close the door again. Don’t let the dog on the white couch in the living room—it’s not washable.”

Amenities and Supplies (What They Can Use)

Don’t make your sitter guess what’s available.

Kitchen and Food

What to specify:

• Appliances they can use (coffee maker, microwave, stove, etc.)
• Food they’re welcome to (specific items, anything in the pantry, nothing)
• Fridge and pantry space designated for them
• Kitchen supplies available (dishes, cookware, utensils)

Be explicit about:

• Special or expensive items that are off-limits
• Dietary restrictions in the house (peanut allergies, etc.)
• Whether they should grocery shop or bring their own food
• What to do with leftovers or perishables

Example rule: “Help yourself to anything in the pantry, fridge, or freezer except the labeled container of leftovers (that’s for when we return). Coffee maker, microwave, and stove are yours to use. We have basic cooking supplies—feel free to cook or order delivery. Please wash your dishes and put them away.”

Or, if you prefer stricter boundaries:

“There’s space in the fridge (bottom shelf) and pantry (top shelf, right side) for your food. Please don’t use anything else without asking first. Coffee maker and microwave are available. Please bring your own groceries.”

Bathroom and Linens

What to specify:

• Which bathroom they should use
• Towel location and which ones to use
• Toiletries available (soap, shampoo, etc.)
• Laundry rules (if they need to wash towels or linens)

Be explicit about:

• “Nice” vs. “everyday” towels
• Whether they can do personal laundry
• How often to change pet bedding

Example rule: “Use the guest bathroom (hall, left side). Clean towels are in the closet—use the blue ones, not the white ones. Soap and shampoo are under the sink. If you need to wash towels during your stay, washer/dryer are in the basement—detergent is on the shelf.”

Wi-Fi and Entertainment

What to specify:

• Wi-Fi network name and password
• TV and streaming service access
• Whether they can use your accounts or should use their own
• Sound level expectations (if neighbors are close)

Be explicit about:

• Account security (don’t save new passwords, log out when done)
• Content restrictions (if applicable)
• Noise rules (quiet hours, volume limits)

Example rule: “Wi-Fi: Network ‘HomeNetwork’ password ‘BlueDog2024’. Feel free to use the TV—Netflix and Hulu are already logged in, just don’t change account settings or add new profiles. Please keep volume reasonable after 10pm (neighbors share a wall).”

Communication and Updates (Stay Connected)

Define how you’ll stay in touch.

Update Frequency

What to specify:

• How often you want updates (daily, every other day, only if problems)
• Preferred format (text, photo, brief message)
• What information to include
• Times you’re available to respond

Be explicit about:

• Whether radio silence means everything’s fine or concerning
• Response time expectations (you’ll reply within X hours)
• Emergency vs. non-urgent communication protocols

Example rule: “Please send a quick text with a photo once daily, ideally after the evening walk. Just let me know how the day went—eating, bathroom, behavior. If something urgent comes up, call immediately. For non-urgent questions, text anytime—I’ll respond within 3-4 hours during the day, possibly longer at night.”

Read our emergency contact list guide for comprehensive communication protocols.

Emergency Contact Information

What to specify:

• Your phone number and backup contact
• When to contact you vs. act immediately
• Vet and emergency clinic information
• Neighbor or friend who can help if needed

Be explicit about:

• Your availability and time zone
• Decision-making authority (can they approve vet treatment?)
• Budget for emergencies
• What constitutes an actual emergency

Example rule: “My number: [number]. I’m in Pacific Time (3 hours behind you). I’ll have my phone on me except during flights. For true emergencies (injury, severe illness, escape), act first and call me after. For non-emergencies (refuses meal, mild concern), text me. My neighbor [Name] at [number] can help if I’m unreachable and you need immediate local support.”

When you book through Petme, every reservation includes up to $20,000 in emergency veterinary coverage through the Petme Protection Plan. Make sure your sitter knows about this coverage so cost concerns don’t delay emergency care.

How to Present House Rules (Without Sounding Insufferable)

You have legitimate boundaries. Present them clearly without being condescending.

Write It Down

Don’t rely on verbal communication alone. Create a written house rules document and review it together during your home tour.

Format options:

• Printed document in a binder near pet supplies
• Laminated sheet on the fridge
• Digital document emailed before the sit
• Notes throughout the house where relevant

Use Conversational Language

Instead of: “Under no circumstances should the dog be permitted on furniture. Violations of this rule will result in termination of services.”

Try: “Max isn’t allowed on furniture—we’re working on this with our trainer. He’ll test you, but please be consistent and redirect him to his bed. Thanks for helping us maintain his training!”

Explain the “Why” When Helpful

Some rules make more sense with context.

Instead of: “Guest bedroom door must remain closed at all times.”

Try: “Please keep the guest bedroom door closed—our cat stress-pees on that bed when she’s anxious, and she gets anxious when we travel. Saves everyone a laundry nightmare!”

Prioritize What Actually Matters

Don’t include seventeen rules about towel folding techniques. Focus on:

1. Pet safety and care
2. Home security
3. Major boundaries (guests, off-limit areas)
4. Emergency protocols
5. Basic cleanliness

Everything else? Let it go. Your sitter is a professional, not a household employee.

What Not to Include in House Rules

Some things are either obvious, unreasonable, or better left unsaid.

Don’t include:

• Rules about the sitter’s personal appearance or clothing
• Excessive restrictions on basic human needs (eating, sleeping, bathroom use)
• Monitoring that feels invasive (tracking their location, constant check-ins)
• Punitive language (“failure to comply will result in…”)
• Rules about the sitter’s time off (if they’re staying overnight, they can leave between visits)
• Unrealistic cleanliness standards (spotless at all times)
• Personal opinions about their lifestyle choices

Assume they already know:

• Don’t steal your stuff
• Don’t smoke indoors (unless you explicitly allow it)
• Don’t throw parties
• Don’t let strangers into your home
• Basic respect for your property

You hired a professional. Trust them to behave professionally.

Common House Rule Scenarios

Scenario 1: Overnight Sitter Who Lives Locally

They’ll come to your house for overnight stays but go home during the day between pet care visits.

Rules to emphasize:

• Security (lock up when leaving, alarm protocols)
• Sleeping arrangements and off-limit areas
• Communication about their schedule
• What amenities they can use while there

Sample rule: “You’re welcome to stay overnight but free to go home between visits if you prefer. When you leave, please lock the front door and set the alarm. Text me your approximate schedule so I know when to expect you’re here vs. away. Feel free to use the kitchen, Wi-Fi, and TV while you’re here.”

Scenario 2: Live-In Sitter from Out of Town

They’ll stay in your home full-time, treating it like their temporary residence.

Rules to emphasize:

• Guest policies (probably stricter since they’re there 24/7)
• Food and amenities access (be generous—they’re living there)
• Privacy boundaries (which spaces are theirs vs. yours)
• Expectations for being “on duty” vs. personal time

Sample rule: “Make yourself at home—you’re living here for the week. Guest bedroom and bathroom are yours. Use the kitchen freely, watch TV, relax. The office is off-limits. You’re free to leave between dog walks—just make sure the pets have what they need. No overnight guests, but daytime visitors are fine.”

Scenario 3: Drop-In Visits Only

Sitter comes 1-3 times per day for feeding, walks, and litter box maintenance but doesn’t stay overnight.

Rules to emphasize:

• Entry and exit protocols (keys, alarm, locking up)
• What to do during the visit
• How to leave the house when done
• Emergency contact if something seems wrong

Sample rule: “Come in through the front door (key under the mat). Alarm code is 1234—you have 30 seconds to disarm. Feed the cat, scoop the litter box, play for 10-15 minutes. When you leave, lock the door and rearm the alarm. Text me after each visit so I know you were there and everything’s okay.”

For more on different service types, read our guides on drop-in visits and house sitting.

Reviewing Rules During the Meet-and-Greet

Don’t just hand your sitter a rulebook. Walk through it together.

During the meet-and-greet:

• Give them the written rules to review
• Highlight the most important points verbally
• Answer questions and clarify confusion
• Demonstrate anything that’s easier shown than explained (alarm, appliances)
• Ask them to repeat back critical information (feeding times, emergency contacts)

Questions to ask your sitter:

• Does anything here feel unclear or unreasonable?
• Are there rules I haven’t mentioned that you typically expect?
• Do you have questions about anything specific?
• Is there anything about your stay that I should know?

This is a conversation, not a dictation. Good sitters will have their own questions and suggestions based on experience.

For interview guidance, read how to interview a pet sitter.

What to Do If Rules Are Broken

Sometimes sitters don’t follow rules. How you handle it matters.

Minor Violations

Examples:

• Used the “nice” towels instead of everyday ones
• Forgot to text you one day
• Left a dish in the sink
• Sat on furniture that’s usually off-limits

How to handle:

• Let it go if it’s truly minor
• Mention it casually if it’s worth a reminder
• Don’t let it affect your review unless it’s part of a pattern

Major Violations

Examples:

• Had unauthorized guests over
• Left doors unlocked or alarm disarmed
• Allowed pet to get injured due to negligence
• Ignored critical pet care instructions

How to handle:

• Address it immediately (call or text)
• Document what happened
• Decide if you want them to continue or find alternative care
• Report serious violations to Petme
• Leave an honest review warning other owners

Finding Sitters Who Respect Boundaries

On Petme, you can read reviews that mention how well sitters follow instructions and respect house rules.

Look for sitters who:

• Ask detailed questions during meet-and-greets
• Take notes during the home tour
• Request written instructions
• Have reviews mentioning “followed directions perfectly” or “respected our home”
• Communicate proactively about schedule changes

Find experienced pet sitters on Petme who understand that house rules exist to protect your pet, your home, and everyone’s peace of mind.

FAQ: Pet Sitter House Rules

What are the rules for house sitting?

Common house sitting rules include pet care routines (feeding, walking, medication), home security protocols (locking doors, setting alarms), guest policies, off-limit areas, cleanliness expectations, and communication frequency. Rules should be written and reviewed during the meet-and-greet.

How do I write instructions for a pet sitter?

Write clear, specific instructions covering feeding times and portions, medication schedules, exercise requirements, behavioral boundaries, emergency contacts, house rules, and amenity access. Use conversational language, explain the “why” behind important rules, and organize information in a binder or digital document. See our detailed instructions guide.

What responsibilities do pet sitters have?

Pet sitters are responsible for following your care instructions, maintaining your pet’s routine, administering medication correctly, keeping your home secure, communicating updates regularly, handling emergencies appropriately, and leaving your home in the same condition they found it.

What is expected of a pet sitter?

Pet sitters should arrive on time for scheduled visits, provide quality care according to your instructions, communicate proactively, respect your home and boundaries, handle emergencies calmly, and maintain professionalism throughout the sit.

Should I let my pet sitter have guests?

This depends on your comfort level. Many owners prefer no guests to maintain security and privacy. If you allow guests, set clear limits: daytime only, advance notice required, no overnight visitors, no large gatherings. State your policy explicitly in house rules.

Can my pet sitter leave between visits?

Yes, if you’ve hired them for drop-in visits or overnight sitting (not 24/7 live-in care). Clarify expectations: they should be there for scheduled pet care times but are free to leave between visits as long as pets’ needs are met.

How do I enforce house rules without being controlling?

Present rules conversationally during the meet-and-greet, explain the reasoning behind important boundaries, focus on rules that truly matter (pet safety, home security), and trust the professional you hired. Write everything down to eliminate ambiguity.

What should I do if my pet sitter breaks a house rule?

For minor violations, let it go or mention it casually. For major violations (security breaches, unauthorized guests, negligent pet care), address immediately, document the issue, consider ending the sit early, report to Petme if serious, and leave an honest review.

House rules aren’t about being controlling—they’re about creating clarity.

Your sitter wants to do a good job. Your pet deserves consistent care. Your home needs to stay secure. Clear rules make all of that possible without awkward guesswork or uncomfortable conversations later.

Set expectations upfront, communicate them clearly, and trust the professional you hired. Everyone wins.