Paws N Claws Coffs Harbour FAQ

· Most pets, especially cats and dogs, like routine. Using the services of a professional pet sitter will enable your pets to keep their normal eating, playtime, exercise, and sleep routines.
· When your pet stays in their own home, they won’t be stressed from being transported to a strange place.
· Your pet will be able to stay in their own home where they are most comfortable, with the sights, sounds, and smells to which they are accustomed.
· If your pet is on medication, or other medical treatment, your pet sitter will be able administer medication on your pets regular schedule.
· Your pet will not be exposed to illnesses that may be contracted at a kennel.
· Having a pet sitter come to your home also works as a crime deterrent. You can request the following: bring in the mail, turn lights off/on, open/close blinds, etc. to help give your home a lived in look. And, in the event of an emergency, they will be able to contact you immediately rather than you coming home to find a problem with your home.
· You won’t have to inconvenience family or friends. While they may mean well, and intend to give excellent care, sometimes they may fall short of your expectations. When you hire a professional, it creates a business relationship with clear expectations for you and your pet sitter.
· Your pet will get consistent and personalised care from one person who knows your pet well.
· It’s more convenient for you. You won’t have to carve time out of your busy schedule to drop off or pick up your pet from a kennel.
· Your pet will be home, waiting at the door to greet you when you come home!

While pet sitting is by far the best choice for the majority of pets, it may not be ideal for some. Pets with separation anxiety, other behavioral issues, or pets with delicate medical conditions may do better in a kennel or veterinary boarding facility. If you have concerns, be sure to talk to contact me or your veterinarian, who will be able to help you determine the best option for your pet.

· Be sure to provide contact and emergency information.
· Be honest about your pets’ health and behavior.
· Book services at least 2 weeks in advance.
· Cancel services as far in advance as possible.
· Understand that extra services require extra time.
· Inform me of any houseguests, trades people that may attend your home in your absence.
· Confirm your travel plans and pet sitting services required.
· Keep me informed of any changes.
· Pay your pet care bill as agreed.
· If you have concerns, contact your me as soon as possible

Prepare your home and pet.

· Ensure that there will be enough food, treats, kitty litter, etc. for the time you will be away.
· Let me know where your dog’s leash is kept.
· If you have a carrier for your pet, let me know where it is kept.
· If your pet is on medication, notify me ahead of time and explain administering of medication.
· Leave detailed instructions on its use, even if you tell me verbally how it’s administered, sometimes there are a lot of animals on medication under my care at one time.
· Put ID tags on each of your pets.
· Provide outdoor pets with plenty of water, shelter, and a secure enclosure.
· Leave toys for your pet to play with while you’re away.
· Let your vet know in advance that you will be out of town and that I will be caring for your pets. Advise your Vet of what type of care you’d like your pet to receive if you cannot be reached.
· Its also a good idea to give your vet the name of the person who will be caring for your pets while you’re away. This is especially important if your pet has a health condition that needs to be monitored.

· Inform me of anything that may be out of the ordinary (sinks that don’t drain properly, toilet that overflows, etc.).
· If anyone will be in your home during your absence, let me know. Because of safety concerns, I will not enter a house if I see someone there. Also, be aware that I will not accept a job if you request I share pet care responsibilities with others.
· For dogs that stay outdoors, secure the yard and lock any gates.
· Potentially dangerous plants or decorations should be put somewhere that your pets won’t be able to get to them. Keep this in mind especially during the holidays when Christmas trees and other decorations are on display.
· Place cleaning supplies where they will be easily accessible if needed.
· If you rent, give your landlord my name in case of emergency. Give me the landlord’s name as well.
· If you do not have sensor lights outside your home, please advise me so I can be prepared with a torch.

· Prior to your departure, please give me information on how you can be contacted. If for some reason I were unable to get into your home, leaving the information on your kitchen counter would be useless. Therefore, it is best to provide me with this information before you leave.
· If you will not be able to be contacted while you’re gone, be sure to provide the name and phone number of someone who will be able to make decisions on your behalf.

Paws & Claws Dog Walking & Pet Services Coffs Harbour

Let me look after your furry friends.