Pet Sitting - FAQ
What do pet sitters do?
Pet sitters offer an alternative to traditional pet boarding services. Instead of
taking your pet to a kennel where they'll be in unfamiliar surroundings, and
undergoing all the shots just to be boarded, a pet sitter comes to you, and
takes care of your pets at your home. This allows your pet to remain in his or her
own familiar and comfortable environment, an environment that smells, looks and
sounds familiar.
How is Head to Tail different from other pet sitters?
When you hire Head to Tail to provide you with your pet sitting services, you are
hiring a reputable company that is licensed with the city, insured as well as a
member of Pet Sitters International, PetSits.com, Wishbones For Pets
Representative and About Pets yahoo group. I am also the only pet sitter in
Valparaiso that has been nominated for the prestigious title of PSI's Pet Sitter of
the year. I have an impressive list of references from some very satisfied
customers. Many pet sitting services also restrict their services to dogs and cats.
However, I have many years of experience with birds, reptiles, ferrets and many
other exotic animals. Because Head to Tail is owner-operated, you will always
have the same pet sitter every time you travel.....ME!! As a Head to Tail client, you
will also receive a monthly newsletter published by Head to Tail.
What made you decide to start Head to Tail? I have always known that I
wanted to spend my life working with animals. Before I became a pet sitter I worked
as a CSR at a title search company. After they downsized the company I had a
year off to work on becoming a pet sitter. I have always loved pets. I learned how
to become a pet sitter through PSI's Patti Moran. Dr. McAfee has also helped me
learn how to care for pets.
What do I need to do to set up a pet sitting service?
The first step is to call 462-2911. At that time we will set up a time for me to come
out to meet with you and your pets. At that time I will get instructions on how to
care for your pets and home while you are away. It is very important that your pets
are comfortable with the pet sitter you choose. So, I will spend time getting to know
them to make sure they are comfortable with me being their new pet sitter. And
while I am doing so, you can get to know me and ask me any questions you may
have about my services. This may take up to an hour.
Is Head to Tail available for times other than when I go on vacation?
I am available anytime and for any reason you need your pets to be cared for.
Whether you feel your pets needs some extra TLC while you are at work or you
have concerns or questions about your pet, I can help with all your pet care needs.
If necessary, will Head to Tail take my pets to their location?
At this time I do not offer pet boarding. In the event that your dog or cat becomes
ill, I can set up an extended stay at your residence to monitor your pets well being
if needed.
How many visits a day can Head to Tail make?
I can visit your home anywhere from 1-4 times per day. How many times a day I
visit depends on your pet's individual needs. For cats and dogs with doggie doors,
I normally recommend 1-2 visits per day. For dogs without a doggie door, I
recommend 3-4 times per day. Cats can be visited every day. I do not do every
other day visits for cats. For cats that area diabetic, I require 2 visits a day.
How long is each pet sitting visit?
The length of each visit depends on the types of pets you have, the amount of
care they require and how interested they are in playing or being loved. The
average visit for a dog is 20-30 minutes. However if your pet is enjoying my
company or my work has not been completed in this time frame, I will stay at your
home for up to one hour or until my work is complete. Cats usually are done in 15
- 20 minutes.
If I wanted you to stay longer than the time listed, would you be able to do
that?
Certainly. We can discuss your pets specific needs and work out a visit schedule
that works best for them.
What if I am just interested in one visit per day Mon - Fri. Can you help?
No Problem! One of Head to Tail's many featured services is a daily dog walking
service that fits just this kind of situation.
How am I billed for pet sitting services?
Head to Tail requires payment up front and in full. If extra visits or services are
needed while you are away, a invoice will be left. All payments are due within 5
business days. Once you are an established client, I just need a deposit and I will
bill you for the balance.
Do you accept reservations for pet sitting and dog walking over the
phone?
Yes. But please make sure you hear back from me as I do sometimes take a
weekend off to spend with my kids.
What is your cancellation policy?
Sometimes emergencies can come up. Head to Tail is happy to give you credit for
the next time you leave town.
Do I need proof that my pet's vaccinations are up to date?
Yes, I will need to see papers confirming all shots.
What happens if my pet becomes ill while I'm away?
We go over illness and treatment during the interview. We will follow your orders.
What if you run out of food while I'm away?
We will go out and purchase the food, however, the cost of the food plus are time
will be billed to you upon your return.
What happens if you get ill or cannot make it to our home?
I have a network of sitters in my area, we help each other when needed. Has
never happened yet.
What days of the week is Head to Tail available?
Monday - Sunday. 8 am to 9 pm However, my office hours are M- F 9 - 4. Unless
you have an emergency.
Should I call before I leave to confirm?
All pet sitting assignments requires that the client must be called with a
confirmation before leaving. If you do not hear from us before you leave please
call us again. We might be out of town.
How are my keys and other security issues handled?
All keys are on the pet sitter for the duration of the pet sitting assignment. If after
the assignment is over and you have indicated to Head to Tail that you wish us to
keep the key for more pet sitting in the future, we will secure the key in a locked
safe.
How much notice do you need to schedule a visit?
We require at least a weeks notice except for holidays when we book up very
quickly months ahead of time. We will do our best to work you in the schedule in
case of an emergency.
What is Head to Tail doing to help the environment?
We are working on becoming a greener doggie/kitty business. I have ordered
and will be using biodegradable poop bags. Although to us that is not enough, but
until we can find a better solution that is what we are doing.
Terms and conditions subject to change without notice. Prices are effective 1/29/2008. Prices and travel charges subject to change without notice.
Copyright Head to Tail 2007-2008
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Tami Truex Owner and Pet Sitter Valparaiso, Ind
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Serving the following areas Valparaiso Chesterton Westville Portage Hobart
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Insured with Special Property Coverage by Pet Sitters Associates, LLC Also Registered with the city of Valparaiso.
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A SENSIBLE ALTERNATIVE FOR YOU AND YOUR PETS
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