How to Update Homeowners While House Sitting: Frequency, Content, and Boundaries
Good communication is one of the biggest differentiators between an average sit and a great one. Clear updates build trust, reassure owners, and prevent problems—but only if expectations are set early and followed consistently.
This is not a universal rulebook. It’s a strategy that works reliably for me as a full-time sitter.
1. Set Expectations Before the Sit
Before arrival (or during handover), agree on two things specifically to avoid any misunderstandings:
Method
Ask how they want updates. Pick one primary channel and use it consistently:
- WhatsApp or iMessage
- SMS / Text
- Platform messaging (TrustedHousesitters, etc.)
Frequency
Ask how often they want updates. Treat this as a baseline, not a ceiling. I update daily, period, unless explicitly agreed otherwise. For long sits, skipping a day occasionally is fine if agreed in advance, but I’ve never had an owner complain that daily updates were “too much.”
2. What to Include in Updates
Every update should be reassuring, visual, and human.
- Pet status: eating, drinking, bathroom habits, and general mood.
- Photos or video: These are non-negotiable. One photo is good; a few are better.
- Routine confirmation: Confirm feeding, walks, and medications are done.
If everything is normal, keep updates positive. Owners are on vacation—they don’t need unnecessary micro-issues unless they truly matter. Report real issues (broken items, malfunctions) early; unreported problems found later always go worse.
3. Creativity vs. Routine
Routine recall is useful, but addressing the pet's personality is better.
- Mention specific behaviors: Reassures them you’re paying attention (e.g., "Buddy was very proud of himself chasing squirrels today").
- Keep it simple: If nothing interesting happened, don’t force it—just confirm the routine is solid.
4. Examples of Good Updates
“Both cats ate well today, litter boxes were normal, and they spent most of the afternoon sleeping in the sun. Added a few photos from their window watch.”
(Clear, calm, visual)
“Everything went smoothly today—feeding, meds, and playtime as discussed. Park walk video attached.”
(Efficient and professional)
5. What Not to Say
- “Nothing to report.” (Sounds careless and lazy)
- “They were kind of weird today.” (Vague language creates anxiety)
- “The dog threw up but I think it’s fine.” (Report clearly with context and timing)
- Irrelevant personal updates. (Keep it focused on the home and pets)
6. Handling Common Situations
Quiet Days: Still update if that’s the agreement. "All is well today—walks and routines as usual."
Owner Stops Responding: Don't panic. They are on vacation. Keep updating at the agreed cadence and document your communication.
7. After the Sit: The Wrap-Up
Before departure or shortly after, always send a final wrap-up message including a summary of pet behavior, house condition, small notes, and a clear thank-you. This strongly influences reviews and future trust.
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