Why intake forms matter
A pet sitting intake form turns scattered client instructions into a usable operating document. Without one, important details live in text threads, memory, or rushed meet-and-greet notes.
Complete one before the first visit for every client. Keep it on file and review it before each booking.
Owner and emergency information
Collect the owner's name, phone, email, home address, and preferred contact method. Also collect an emergency contact who can make decisions if the owner cannot be reached.
This matters during travel. A client may be on a plane, in a meeting, or out of service when something urgent happens.
Pet health and behavior
Record the pet's name, species, breed, age, weight, color or markings, and whether they are spayed or neutered.
Then collect medical and behavior details: conditions, medications, dosage, allergies, anxiety triggers, aggression history, bite history, behavior around other animals, and anything unusual you should know.
Feeding and vet details
Document food brand, food type, amount per feeding, feeding times, treat rules, water restrictions, and any medication instructions connected to meals.
Also collect the veterinarian's clinic name, address, phone number, and whether the pet is a current patient. In an emergency, you do not want to search for this information while the pet is already distressed.
Home access and visit preferences
Record whether a key was provided, where the key or lockbox is located, alarm codes, gate codes, and anything unusual about the home.
Then document visit duration, preferred times, areas the pet can access, off-limits areas, outside access rules, and leash requirements. These details prevent avoidable mistakes.