Frequently asked questions
How much notice do you need for a cancellation?
For pet sitting during a trip, as much time as possible. It's problematic for me to turn away business for work that then gets canceled at the last minute. For walks, there isn't as big of a time commitment so it's not as critical. I can almost always be reached by text during the day in case something comes up, though it's possible I could arrive before recieving the message. If last-minute cancellations become a regular issue, other arrangements will need to be made.
Do you take last-minute reservations?
Yes, if my schedule allows. I do my best to remain flexible and accommodate your needs.
What should I expect when I return home?
A happy, healthy pet, home duties done as agreed upon, and a write-up of what your pet and I did while you were away!
What forms of payment do you accept?
For new clients, I accept cash only, up front. Once we have a working relationship, there are more options.
What would you do if my pet were to become ill while I'm away?
In the event of an emergency, I will rush your pet to the emergency hospital and call you once I get there (your pet will only have the emergency life-saving treatments you have authorized before I contact you). If I suspect that something is wrong with your pet that is not life-threatening, I will call you at the emergency phone numbers I have on file for you. I will describe the situation with your pet and make a recommendation, and you can decide if your pet will see your veterinarian at that time or not. If I do take your pet to the vet, the charge will be $25/hour plus the vet bill payment. If you and your authorized contacts cannot be reached, I will make the decision.
What are your qualifications?
I'm a Certified Veterinary Technician, with 7 years of in-clinic work experience. I've been petsitting for 10 years, although I only decided to make it a full-time career about a year ago. And I love taking care of animals!
What are your earliest and latest visit times?
7 am and 10 pm, with exceptions in some circumstances.
What do you do with my house key?
I prefer to keep a copy of your key, which has many benefits over other systems (having your own lock box is fine too). Client keys get labeled with a number only, and the key codes are locked in my phone. Keys are kept locked in my home and only taken out when in use. Should you get delayed at work, I can do a last-minute visit or walk (if I'm available, and I can generally fit these in if you're in a pinch). There is no need to worry about arranging a key exchange when you're rushing around with travel preparations pre-trip . There isn't the security risk as with leaving the key under the mat or in the flowerpot. And if you ever find yourself accidentally locked out of your house, you have an extra backup.
What areas do you cover?
The area I cover is from NE Halsey to SE Woodstock, and from the river to E 92nd (approximately). Beyond that, travel fees apply.
Can you stay overnight at my home?
Yes. A 12-hour stay is $60, and that covers the evening and morning routines. You can add more hours to the beginning or end of the stay, for $5 per hour. I recommend a visit or walk at about the midpoint of the time I'll be away, for which the usual rates apply.