What made you want to care for animals for a living?   

When I was a kid I played with every animal in the neighborhood. I didn't  care if it was a cat, dog, snake, mouse, bird, bat, squirrel...I picked it up. I cared for a baby bird one time (not the best idea, but  hey, I was eight.) I used to take in all the stray animals as well.  When I was about seven  years old, we were returning from the grocery store, a mama cat and her five kittens were coming towards me on the sidewalk. Of course, I scooped them all up. They were strays, no neighbors claimed them, so I set them up in our garage with a blanket and bed, as well as water and food. A woman we knew, that had a really big farm took all the kitties to her place. The oldest ended up being 18 years old! Later in life I became a registered veterinary technician and have been since 2006!

 

Will you do a meet & greet prior to you caring for my pets?     

Yes, I will always do a meet and greet prior to any bookings to make sure we are all a great fit.

 

Can you give my dog or cat oral medications?   Can you give them subcutaneous fluids?    Yes to both!  I've done both for my own cats and dogs, but hundreds of  animals as a vet tech.

 

What do you do in case of an emergency?     

I understand that this is a very stressful question to ask, but I'm glad you did. First, I would make sure your pet is in a safe place. Second, I will always try to contact you to let you know what has happened.  During our meet and greet, I will give you some paperwork to complete with the name of your vet and an emergency contact (friend/neighbor.)  Some vet hospitals will not treat your pet without a form stating you give your pet sitter permission to do so.  One great tip, give a call to your preferred veterinarian and ask them to put a note on your account. That way if an emergency does arise, they have your pet sitter on your account as a decision maker.

 

What is your cancellation policy?   

For house-sitting at your home and over night at my home, a 50% deposit is required at time of booking. If the booking is canceled less than three days of the scheduled stay, your deposit will be kept for a future booking. For dog walking, drop in visits, and play dates at my home, you may cancel at any time without a fee. 

 

How much notice is needed to book with you?     

For house-sitting at your home and slumber parties at my home, I would like as much time as possible but no less than a week.  For dog walking, day care at my home, or drop in visits at your home at least three days in advance is preferable. I understand emergencies may come up that you need me sooner, so please feel free to reach out as I can be flexible. 

 

Will you ever feed my pets anything other than treats and food provided by me?   

Nope! I understand that a lot of pets have food allergies and dietary restrictions due to certain health conditions. I myself have a severe gluten allergy, so I completely understand dietary restrictions.  

 

What kind of enrichment will you provide my pets?       

Great  question!   I love playing fetch, tossing toys, and hiding treats/toys for your pet to find.  Walks are always fun. Not only great exercise for your pet, but for me as well. Your kitties will receive extra cuddles, toy time, and laser pointer chasing.  In the case of blizzards, dangerous heat waves, our outdoor trips will be for a potty break only. Unless your dog is a Husky, then they demand the blizzard.

 

What other animals do you care for?     

Snakes, spiders, lizards, hamsters, rats, mice, guinea pigs, ferrets...No birds please.  

 

Will you watch my bunny?     

I am able to care for your pet bunnies, but am not comfortable with medication administration.

 

How will you communicate with me while I'm gone?       

Completely your preference! Some folks prefer to text only, which is completely acceptable. I'm ok with phone calls, text, and emails. I'll always call you with something urgent, like an injury or illness. You are also more than welcome to call me anytime to check in. I will always let you know how your kiddo  is doing. I'd want the same if someone was watching my pets.

 

Do you stay at my home 24/7 when pet sitting?   

I will sleep in your home every night, that way I'm available for your pets all night if they need to go potty or want extra cuddle time. I may leave for an hour or two during the day to run errands,  go to an appointment  or visit my own pets (don't worry, my husband works from home so they are not being left alone.)  If I need to leave for more than two hours, I will approve it with you in advance.

 

Will you ever have people stay in my home while you are pet sitting?       

No way! This time is only for your pets.

 

Will you send me pictures while caring for my pet?       

Yes, indeed! 

 

Are you insured?    

Absolutely! I am insured with a company called Pet Care Insurance . They not only provide coverage to pet sitters, but to groomers, dog trainers,  even pet taxis.

 

Can you water my plants?     

Heck yeah!  I inherited my green thumb from my grandparents, so if your plants need to be watered while you are gone, I can do that for you!  And, if you have any plants you don't want. Let me know. I'll adopt them! I can also grab your mail. 

 

Feel free to reach out to me with any additional questions you may have. Can't wait to meet your pet!