Pets grieve. Their routines matter, and so does how they’re comforted. Share things like:

• What scares them. It could be thunder, men, kids, vacuum, or separation.

• How they seek comfort. Do they get clingy, do they hide?

• How they show stress. Some pets pace, stop eating, have accidents in the house, or start overgrooming when they are stressed. 

• Whether they’re more bonded to people or to another pet.

This is often more important than perfect schedules. Include:

• Favorite sleeping spots or objects (blankets, toys, your clothes).

• Words or phrases they respond to.

• Routines that calm them, like music, crate time, or car rides.

• How they prefer affection. Do they need space or do they like to cuddle? 

You’ve probably listed vets and meds elsewhere—this is about judgment calls. This removes an enormous emotional burden. Clarify:

• What “worth treating” means to you.

• Your thresholds for invasive care, surgery, or long-term meds.

• How you define quality of life for this specific pet.

Help them avoid misunderstandings. Include:

• Dog parks: yes/no

• Other animals: good with cats/dogs/kids or not

• Leash behavior or reactivity triggers

• House rules they’re used to, such as, are they allowed on the couch or bed, or do they have a crate? What are the food boundaries?

People default to their own style unless you guide them. Explain:

• Commands they know and words you use for them.

• What does not work for discipline. 

• Whether treats, praise, or routine work best.

This is delicate but important. Clarify:

• Whether you hope the caregiver keeps them permanently or helps rehome.

• If rehoming, what kind of home you’d want (quiet, kids/no kids, yard, etc.).

• Permission to ask for help if it’s too much.