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Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I use a Professional Pet Sitter?
When you must be gone for more hours than your pet can safely, comfortably be left
unattended, a Pet Sitter can fill in for you as caregiver. For example, pets may need
medication at specific times; crated dogs may need periodic breaks for "potty", water,
exercise and some TLC; dogs who are afraid of thunder may need comforting/medication in a
storm; pets with separation anxiety may need the company of a human at regular intervals.
If you are a pet owner, you can probably think of many times when a Pet Sitter could have
helped you out so that you were free to carry on your own activities without feeling "tied
down" to your pet, and without having to stress your pets by moving them to unfamiliar
surroundings. Fido's Nanny will take care of your pets in the safety and comfort of their
own home. No worries for you, lots of TLC for your pets, and if you're gone more than 24
hours, home-watch services for your peace of mind.
What are home-watch services?
When you are away, generally you don't want your house to look like there's no one
home. A visiting Pet Sitter will turn on/off lights, radios, televisions if appropriate,
adjust curtains/drapes/shades, bring in newspapers/mail and take trash/recyclable cans to
the curb and back, and water your plants.
Where are the animals cared for?
All visits occur in your own home, where your pet is most comfortable and his/her
routine would best be maintained.
How much does it cost?
Services are priced on a per-visit basis, and depend on number and type of pets and
special handling requirements. We offer plans for both daily and long-term care. Fido's
Nanny will discount the first visit fee for any pet that has been rescued from a registered
shelter or rescue group within the last 6 months, and may be able to customize pricing in
certain multi-pet or extended absence circumstances. Please see our
Services section for more information on fees.
How many times a day will you visit our pets?
The number and timing of visits depends on what is best in your specific situation.
In households with dogs, a minimum of two visits per day is required, as one visit in a 24
hour period is insufficient to properly attend to a dog's needs. Some pets may be fine
with two visits per day, some require three or even four.
What if my pet becomes ill while I'm away?
In our contract, you will specify what actions the Pet Sitter should take in the event
of an emergency, including veterinary contacts or preferences. We are certified in pet
first aid; however such actions are only temporary until proper veterinary care can be
obtained. We would require at least one way to reach you or your designated contact in any
emergency.
How many Pet Sitters does Fido's Nanny have?
We have several trained pet sitters sharing in the schedule of visits, all of whom are insured and bonded. A majority of pet sitting is done by owner Beverly Courtney, who also manages the pet sitting schedule and conducts all initial consultations. All pet sitters were personally known to the owner from various animal-related affiliations, and their devotion to the excellent care of our clients’ pets has been well demonstrated. No pet sitter is slated to handle any visit unless he/she has been first introduced to the pets and taken through one complete visit guided by the primary sitter. In addition, an emergency sitter/coordinator is also designated to continue all care in the event that the primary sitter becomes incapacitated. All pet sitters carry a card stating that they are responsible for someone’s pets and should anything prevent them from doing so, the emergency sitter is to be contacted. That sitter has access to all pertinent computer records, key logs, locked key cabinets and care instructions so that there should be no significant interruption in scheduled pet care.
How do we get started using a Pet Sitter?
Prior to any pet-sitting engagement, we will have an initial consultation with you and
your pets. This is mandatory and free of charge. At that meeting, we will discuss how
Fido's Nanny will meet your pet's needs, a contract is prepared and signed
detailing exactly what is to occur and the related fees, and access to the home (key,
keypad code, alarm code, etc) is provided. We require proof of current rabies vaccination
or veterinary exemption as applicable, and/or proof of recent veterinary exam.
Do you stay overnight?
As a general rule, no. We make our visits late enough at night and
early enough in the morning (some surcharges may apply) so the hours that pets are alone at
night are typically sleeping hours. On occasion, we may be able to accommodate
short-term overnight stays.
Will you give our pets their medications?
Any medications you provide for your pet will be administered according to
instructions. As part of our initial consultation, you will
provide contact information for your veterinarian(s) so that if any issues arise regarding
the medications we can seek veterinary guidance.
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