If your doggy is not friendly with other dogs, this is something else to let your pet sitter know. The last thing you need is something to happen to your pup and the person who is watching him! Let the sitter know so that they'll be prepared for the worst.

Here are five tips for prepping your dog sitter, and yourself, so that an emergency situation results in the best possible outcome:

1. Tell your sitter everything
I once took care of a dog who got out and made a run for it. He was lost for almost 24 hours before I was able to scoop him up. When his mom picked the pup up, she had a friend with her who said he had done this before – more than once. If your pet is a flight risk, TELL YOUR SITTER.

2. Provide your dog’s stats and medical history
In your pet’s travel bag, include a list of all stats, including age and weight; dates of major vaccines such as rabies; any other relevant medical history; and contact information for her current vet.

3. Have an emergency plan in place
With your contact info, provide an emergency backup who can make medical decisions for your dog if you are not available. Also provide written authorization for your sitter to approve any emergency medical procedures if neither of you are reachable.

4. Make sure your sitter has insurance
A professional dog sitter should have adequate insurance that covers your dog should something happen. If there is no or inadequate insurance, find another sitter.

5. Know that accidents happen and be understanding
No one wants harm to come to your dog, least of all your sitter, but accidents do happen. I’m a good – nay great – sitter, but I’ve had my fair share of trips to the vet for:

• Foxtail removal from a pup’s nose and from an eye – If foxtails are common in your area, make sure your sitter knows the signs of inhalation and when to seek medical attention.

• Puncture wounds from another dog – Even if a bite doesn’t look bad, let your sitter know to head straight to the vet.

• Tick removal – I DESPISE ticks. Even so, I’m pretty good at getting them off. Once, though, I wasn’t successful in getting the entire blood-sucking creature out and had to take the dog to the vet.

If you do happen to leave and forget to tell your pet sitter something important, give them a quick call and let them know. If they're a great sitter they'll appreciate you taking the time to call. And if you're going to be gone for an extended period of time, the more information they have on your fur baby, the better. You can enjoy your trip knowing your pooch is in good hands! You can read more tips on Dogster.