:::
Frequently Asked Questions
:::
How much time will you spend with my pet?
It depends! The duration depends on several factors, most
important of which are your pet's needs. We will typically
spend between 20 and 40 minutes with your loved one, sometimes
longer but never shorter. Group doggy walks are typically
longer than solo doggy walks. Kitty visits vary depending on
how social your cat is and how long kitty will let us stay there to
play with him/her.
Are you "insured & bonded?"
Yes,
Petpal is insured with a $1,000,000 liability policy through
Pet Sitters Associates (underwritten by Evanston Insurance
Companies) and we have a $5,000 bond policy. Additionally, we
have $10,000 in
coverage for our clients' personal property. This supplemental coverage is
more valuable than a dishonesty bond because it also covers losses
due to negligence and accidents. This extra policy
distinguishes Petpal from others.
I'd rather not have you visit my home, do you offer boarding
services?
Sorry, we do not offer any boarding or pet day-care services.
Don't be afraid to tell us if you're a bit reluctant to let a stranger in your home
while away, it's a normal feeling. However, we are confident
that you will feel more comfortable about it after the initial consultation.
Besides, kenneling your pet can be traumatic to both of you and it
exposes your loved one to many airborne viruses commonly found in
kennels. Your pet will be both happier and safer in your own home.
Will you clean my cat's litter box?
Yes, we will make sure that your cat has a nice clean litter box to
conduct their business.
Will my dog be walked alone or in a group?
It depends on your (or your dog's) preference. If your dog
gets along well with other dogs, you might prefer a group walk
because they're usually a bit longer than solo walks.
How many dogs do you walk at the same time?
When we walk dogs in groups, we limit the size to 3 (or sometimes 4) dogs
but usually we're walking dogs alone or with one other dog.
Rest assured that Petpal does not walk 7 or 8 dogs at once like some
other Boston pet sitters.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Yes, sorta', but only because we sometimes need one. If
you cancel less than 24 hours prior to a scheduled visit, you may be
charged for the visit. We understand that plans can change at the last minute
so we
rarely enforce this policy... but if we do, then there's a
reason and we'd rather not debate it.
Can you administer medication to my pet?
Absolutely; we're here to take care of your loved one so if your pet
requires special care, we'll handle it. Since special care
sometimes requires a little extra time with your pet, we may ask for a
little extra payment.
I don't have a spare key, can I leave it for you under the
welcome mat?
Please don't ask us to take on this responsibility; it is too
risky. Please have spares handy before meeting us; we
typically require two sets of keys.
Do you return our keys once we return home?
Yes, you can pick-up your keys or we will gladly return them the
next time we're in the neighborhood. But if there's a
chance that you will need our services again in the future, it is
much easier if we already have your keys. We do not charge for
the initial consultation but we do charge to come pick up your
keys for future visits.
Are you trained in pet first aid?
Yes, we are Red Cross trained and certified in Pet First Aid and
CPR. You can rest assured knowing that your loved one is in
good hands with someone trained to recognize and provide basic care
in pet first aid emergencies.
How often should you visit to care for my cat?
In our experience, one visit per day is sufficient for most cats
but we are happy to visit twice per day if you'd prefer. Some
customers ask us to visit their cat every other day while they're
out of town but we strongly urge them to schedule daily visits; as
independent as your cat may be, two days is a long time when they're
left all alone.
Do you have references from past clients?
Yes,
Petpal's references will be sent to you via email or in person
during your consultation. We're also working on a "testimonial
page" for the website which will include client feedback and pet
photos. We hope that you'll soon be singing our praises too!
