How to Prepare Your Cavoodle for a Pet Sitter Over the Holidays

Planning a summer getaway? Whether you’re heading to the coast, visiting family, or escaping for a well-earned break, one thing’s for sure, your Cavoodle deserves just as much preparation as you do.

Cavoodles don’t like being away from their humans due to their affectionate and  social nature, which means being away from you can be a big adjustment. But don’t fret yet… with the right preparation, your Cavoodle can enjoy their own mini pawcation while you relax knowing they’re in good hands.

And we have the inside scoop with lots of practical tips from Tanya Williams, Chief Pawson at 3 Spoilt Dogs  So here are some tips on how to get your Cavoodle ready for a pet sitter this holiday season.

Choose a Pet Sitter Who Understands Cavoodles

Not all pet sitters are created equal especially when it comes to Oodles. Cavoodles have sensitive personalities, lush coats that need care, and a big dose of separation anxiety if left with the wrong person.

Ideally find a sitter that specialises in your breed or has similar natured dogs. If your dogs is not good with big dogs then using a sitter that has all sizes could be problematic and stressful for your cavoodle. 

Tanya runs 3 Spoilt Dogs which is a specialist in daycare and pawcations for oodles in Brisbane, “Because we specialise in caring for Oodles we understand their quirks and personalities. They tend to be snugglers so love to cuddle on the lounge or have quiet time. We often joke about the cling-ons that cant bare to leave your lap for 5 minutes so you need to find a sitter that can cater to the unique needs of a cavoodle,” says Tanya Williams, Chief Pawson at 3 Spoilt Dogs. “A good sitter knows when a Cavoodle needs playtime, when they need quiet time, and when they just want to curl up for cuddles.”

Ask for reviews, check experience with small breeds, and book a meet and greet before your trip. This helps your Cavoodle get familiar with their sitter’s scent and energy and gives you, as the owner,  peace of mind that everyone gets along.

 

Keep Their Routine Consistent

Cavoodles thrive on predictability. They know the exact time you should be pulling into the driveaway each day as they wait your return from work.. A professional dog sitter will ask you a bunch of questions relating to feeding, behaviour, health, lifestyle and routine. The more information you can provide them with, the smoother the transition for both you and your cavoodle. When it comes to routine, be sure to share these details:

• Feeding times and portions

• Walk and toilet break schedule

• Bedtime rituals (yes, that extra cuddle counts!)

• Favourite play activities

• Any bad or naughty behaviours
  
  A clear routine keeps your Cavoodle settled and helps your sitter maintain your dog’s normal rhythm even while you’re away.

Pack Their Holiday Essentials

Just like you, your Cavoodle needs their own suitcase! Pack everything that makes them feel at home:

• Food and treats (plus a little extra)

• Bed, blanket or crate with familiar scents

• Lead, harness, and updated ID tags

• Favourite toys and comfort items

• Any medication with clear instructions

• Written food instructions including any allergies or issues they might have

Sometimes it can feel like they have more luggage than you LOL

Leave Clear Emergency and Vet Details

Even the best sitters appreciate a clear plan. Leave:

• Your vet’s contact details
  

• An emergency local contact (a friend or family member nearby). Especially important if you are flying overseas and there is a time difference.
  

• Information about your dog’s health quirks (like allergies, ear issues, or anxiety triggers)
  
  This ensures your sitter is prepared for anything and gives you added confidence while you’re away.

Communicate Expectations Upfront

Communication between you and your dog sitter are super important and it is important that you are honest with any issues, quirks or potential stressors. If your sitter knows then they can manage accordingly. Be clear about what’s included in your sitter’s service. Will they handle bathing, walks, or medication? Are these additional costs? Do you want photo updates each day, or just a mid-week check-in? What is your expectation and what do they reasonably provide to you as part of their service? Is your dog scared of storms or do they bolt when the door is open? It is all relevant so be honest and also ask them lots of questions.

“Good communication is key,” says Tanya. “We like to know each dog’s personality whether they’re a social butterfly or a bit of a homebody so we can tailor their care perfectly. And we also need to know about the issues and naughty behaviours. If you dog chases cane toads or barks when alone, we need to know so we can manage accordingly”

The more detail you share, the smoother the stay will be for both your Cavoodle and their sitter.

And of course lots of photo and video updates from them will give you peace of mind so ask your dog sitter to send you regular updates. 

Try a Trial Stay or Daycare Visit

If your Cavoodle hasn’t been left with a sitter before, a short trial day or an overnight can make a world of difference.

“We often recommend a mini ‘pawcation’ before the big trip,” Tanya explains. “It builds trust, and by the time the longer stay comes, your dog feels like they’re visiting old friends.”

A daycare or overnight stay helps your dog adjust and lets your sitter observe how they behave in a new environment. It is a great first step to ease them into a new environment.

 

 

Keep Goodbyes Calm and Positive

Cavoodles are incredibly intuitive and pick up on your emotions. When it’s time to say goodbye, keep it cheerful and short - no drawn-out teary farewells!

“Dogs read energy,” says Tanya. “The calmer you are, the more confident they’ll feel. A happy, upbeat goodbye tells them, ‘You’re safe, and I’ll be back soon.’”

“At the end of the day, it’s about making your Cavoodle feel as loved and secure as they do when you’re home,” says Tanya. “With the right preparation, your holidays can be worry-free and your Cavoodle’s stay can be pawsitively wonderful.”

Leaving your Cavoodle for the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. Just prepare ahead of time and work with a reputable and trusted sitter who understands the Oodle personality.

P.S If you’re in Brisbane and need care for your oodle contact Tanya and she will give you a $25 voucher to use on your first doggy daycare or overnight visit.