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Frequently Asked Questions
How long have you been in business?
I have been a full-time dog walker and cat sitter since 2002.
Initial Meeting
Before I can start service, I will need to come to your home and introduce myself to you and your dog or cat. This initial visit is at no cost or obligation to you. I will answer any questions you might have, go over your pet's routine, and get a copy of your key. Click here to visit my Getting Started page.
How is billing and payment handled?
I bill repeat, weekly dog walking clients at the end of every two weeks. New dog walking clients will need to pay a one-week deposit up front. New cat sitting clients will need to pay for their first visits in advance. For all future visits, I will leave a bill on the last day I visit your cat. Payment will be due within 7 days of your return. I accept cash, personal checks, Venmo, and Cash App.
How do you keep my key safe?
I will attach a tag to your key with the name of your pet. For security purposes, your name, address and phone number will never be kept with your key. When I am using your key, it is always attached to me on a key reel. When I'm not using your key, it is kept in a locked box inside my home.
When should I give you a key?
If you feel that I'm the right fit for your pet at our initial meeting, you can give me a copy of your key then. If you're not quite ready to make a decision at the time of the consultation, I can pick up your key at a later date.
Do you return our keys once we return home?
If there's a chance that you will need my services again in the future, I prefer to keep a copy of your key to simplify arrangements. If I have a copy of your key, you won't have to make time to get a key to me before your next trip. Having a key on file makes it much easier for me to accommodate last-minute requests. But if you do need your key returned, I will be happy to drop it off. There is an $10 fee for picking up your key for future visits. To avoid the fee, you are welcome to drop off your key at my house.
Will I need to provide poop bags?
No. I supply the poop bags.
What is your cat visit policy during bad snow storms or hurricanes?
In the case of extreme weather conditions when driving is out of the question, I will walk to your house to visit your cat if that is possible. If you are out of my walking range, I will leave extra food for your cat before driving becomes impossible. I will return to care for your cat as soon as it is safe to travel. If you have a neighbor who has a copy of your key, you might want to ask that neighbor to be your bad-weather backup.
What if I get delayed on my trip and can't make it home on the expected date?
If you get delayed, please call, text, or email me, and I will continue to care for your cat until you arrive home.
How much notice is needed to schedule service?
If you are not a current client, please contact me as soon as you know the dates of service needed so that I can confirm my availability and have time to meet with you and pick up a key. At least a week's notice is preferred. If you are already a client and I have your key on file, I can usually accommodate last-minute requests. Scheduling as soon as you know the dates you need is best for ensuring my availability.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel scheduled visits, please let me know asap. There is no charge for cancelled dog walks as long as I have not already made the trip to your house. For cat sitting visits, please let me know as soon as your plans change. My calendar fills up quickly, and once I've booked your service dates, this might mean that I've had to refuse service for another client.
Will my dog be walked alone or in a group?
I provide safe, individual dog walks unless you request another arrangement.
Will you take dogs off-leash on walks or for visits in dog parks?
Running off leash and in dog parks can leave your dog vulnerable to situations that I might not always be able to control. Safety is my top priority, so I do not allow dogs off-leash while in my care.
Can you administer medication to my pet?
Yes. If your pet requires special care, I'll handle it. I am experienced in administering medications by mouth and by injection and with administering subcutaneous fluids. There is no extra charge for administering medication or for special care unless it involves more time than was scheduled.
How can I find out how my cats are doing while I am away?
I am always happy to give you an update on your pets! You can call, text, or email me to check in. Or you can request that I text you updates every day or on certain days. Otherwise, you can feel confident that your pets are being well cared for and that no news is good news.
Is there an extra charge on Holidays?
There is no extra charge for holiday visits. My schedule for cat visits fills up quickly for the Thanksgiving and Christmas weeks, so it is advised that you book as early as possible.
Communication
I recognize that all strong relationships are based on communication, so please don't hesitate to contact me with any question or concern!
Still have questions?
Click here to send me a message.