I'm a new client, what is the process for scheduling services? 

Prior to all services, I require a meet & greet.  Meet & Greets are short meetings with you and your pets.  This allows us all to get to know each other and ensure a good fit. During the meet & greet, I will take time to get to know your pet and we will discuss their care routine and requirements. For boarding, I always recommend meet & greets be conducted in my home. This gives your pup time to explore and become familiar with the space they will be staying in. They will also have a chance to meet my own dog, Indiana.  Meet & Greets for in-home sitting or drop-in visits should be conducted in your home, as it gives your pet a chance to be comfortable with me in their space. It also allows me to get familiar with your home and learn where things are at so I can provide the best care possible for your pet and your home while you're away.
 

What requirements are there before services begin? 

I require all dogs to be up-to-date on city-required vaccinations for both boarding, and in-home services. If your dog is unable to receive vaccinations due to medical issues, I require a vet note exempting them from this. All new clients must complete a new client form and a veterinary release form. These forms are for you to provide necessary information such as yours and your emergency contact information and vet information. You will also be asked to provide pet specific information such as feeding instructions, medication requirements, and daily routines. The veterinary release form gives me permission to seek medical care, if necessary, in the case your pet becomes injured or ill.

What happens if my pet becomes injured or ill while I'm away? 

I will make every effort possible to reach you. If I'm unable to reach you, I will reach out to your emergency contact. If I'm unable to reach you or your emergency contact, I will seek care from either your primary vet or an emergency vet, whichever is appropriate for the situation.

What does "Fear Free Certified" mean?

Pet sitters spend an extended period of time with the animals they care for, giving them an intimate and unique glimpse into animals’ home lives. Because of this, pet sitters can readily identify opportunities for improvement and spot emerging behavior concerns, enrichment opportunities, and other areas that might otherwise go unnoticed.  Learn more about Fear Free here.  You can also find other Fear Free pet professionals here.

What other qualifications do you have?

In addition to being a Fear Free certified pet sitter, I am also First Aid and CPR certified through American Red Cross and Melanie Monteiro's First Aid and CPR course on Udemy. I am privately insured through PCI (Pet Care Insurance). I have received a Groom Tech certification though Paragon School of Pet Grooming, which includes a comprehensive pet health and safety course. I make a priority out of staying current on my certifications as well as current practices for care within the pet care industry.

Do you have restrictions for boarding?

• All boarding dogs MUST be well-socialized. I have my own dog and may also be boarding other dogs. For this reason, your dog must get along well with other dogs. If your dog is not friendly with other dogs, in-home sitting will be a better fit for you.
• I live above a business, so if your dog is overly vocal, in-home sitting will be a better fit for us.
• Dogs are allowed on furniture and in the bed here. If your dog is not allowed this at home, please provide their bed and/or crate, whichever they occupy at home. We will make every effort to maintain their expected habits during their stay.
• Dogs must be current on the following vaccinations: Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella. It is preferred they have had a negative fecal test within the last 6 months. You may request a vaccination summary from your vet.
• City registration stickers are required for all dogs residing in Chicago.
• Dogs must be house trained and leash trained

Will I receive updates on my pets while I'm away?

Yes! I make it a point to send a minimum of 1 update with picture each day. If I catch a photo of them being particularly cute, I may send more. If I have questions or concerns I will reach out to you. You may always reach out to me as well.

How many dogs do you accept at a time?

I accept up to 3 households or a maximum of 6 dogs at a time. Available boarding space is determined by size, care requirements, and overall temperament of each dog. It is always my top priority to ensure comfort and safety of all dogs in my care and one of the ways I do this is by ensuring there is enough space and time to care for each guest.

Will you be with my pet during the day?

I currently work a day job at a nearby grooming salon. It is recommended that your pet be able to tolerate being home alone during a normal work day. This applies to both boarding and in-home sitting. If your dog needs more frequent or round the clock care, we may be able to accommodate it upon request. Also note that when boarding, your pets will be monitored via pet cam anytime a person is not present. This includes us stepping out for only a few minutes.

Do you use kennels or cages?

We do not crate dogs unless it is specifically requested by the owner. I only accept well-socialized dogs for boarding. When accepting multiple bookings, I am always mindful of each dog's personalities to ensure all dogs can safely and happily intermingle. When dogs need to be separated, we use partitions and gates to keep everyone safe and still provide plenty of space for them.

What if my dog requires round the clock care?

If your pet requires someone present at all times, this service may be available for boarding only and subject to availability. This service is $30/day in addition to the standard overnight rate. Please request this service at the time of booking so we can ensure availability first.

When you are staying in my home, will you be able to water my plants?

Yes! In-home stays also include simple household tasks such as bringing in mail, watering plants, and taking out trash. I will always respect your home.

What are your holiday rates and when do they apply?

Holiday rates are an additional $10/night for boarding or in-home sitting or an additional $10 per drop-in visit.  2024 holiday rates will apply to the following dates:

• July 4-7
• September 1-3
• November 27 - December 1
• December 22 - 28
• December 31 - January 1 2025