How do I go about hiring a pet sitter?
You should email (preferred) or call as soon as you know you will be traveling. Most pet sitters book reservations far in advance, especially for the holidays. If you will be traveling during a major holiday, booking at least 2 months in advance is a smart move.
All professional pet sitters require an in-home consultation (Initial Set-up visit) for first time clients before you leave so they can get acquainted with you and your pets.

What should I expect?
Our pet sitting service is based on the simple premise of great customer service.

What happens at the initial set-up visit?
You should have received, read, filled out, and signed all the paperwork, like the contract, pet care instructions, policies, and the service request . You and the pet sitter will talk through all the services you need and how everything needs to be done. Paperwork will not be left behind to be completed later. Then you give the sitter 2 keys, and payment. This first visit is free of charge.
What do I need for the initial set-up visit?

When do I make the payment?
Like most service companies, Hedy's Pet Sitting requires up front payment (after confirmation of your reservation). This has nothing to do with you specifically, it is just company policy to have payment in advance.

Why should I trust you in my home while I am away?
Trusting us begins with that we are truly committed to having satisfied clients. We are members of the community in good standing. Part of our commitment is to ensure completely satisfied clients that come back repeatedly. Repeat business is what we are after. An unsatisfied client costs too much to replace. Being advocates of excellent customer service, we strive to ensure that not only are you satisfied but that we are as well.
Hedy's Pet Sitting is insured and bonded, and a proud member of the Pet Sitter Associates, LLC, We are also listed on the Pet Sit Finder website.
Excellent local references.

Who all will have a key to my house?
We require two keys to your house. One key is kept in a locked box in our office. The other key is with the sitter. The key tag has only your pet's name on it. No other identifiable information is on the keys. That way if a key is misplaced, lost, or stolen, it can't be associated with your home. Obfuscating data is the most secure means of securing your information. A key that has Bob written on it is absolutely worthless, unless you know where Bob likes to hang his tail.

What if the pet sitter has a personal emergency while taking care of my pets?
Someone from the office will handle the pet sitting.

Will I get information on my pet during the time I will be away?
You may request that the pet sitter provide you with updates while you are away. Some clients call this peace of mind. We do understand your concern and are pleased to contact you as long as necessary. If you are traveling outside the lower continental states, we must insist that your updates come by email due to phone charges.

What do I do when I get back home?
It is extremely important that you let us know when you arrived back home.
We expect clients to call upon arrival home. If we are not notified of your return, we will return for additional visit(s) and you will be charged accordingly until your return call. If something did happen to delay your return, you would not want your pets to go hungry.

What do I need for the initial set-up visit?

• Forms filled out and signed
• Have payment ready
• 2 tested keys for the sitter (we will not 'sit' for anyone refusing to give a key upon completion of the paperwork).
• Details about your pet's daily routine
• Your pet's veterinarian's phone number and address
• Your itinerary, including hotel and phone numbers
• The names and dosages of any medications
• Identify any favorite hiding places that your pets might have
• Identify any health issues that your pet might have, no matter how minor
• Supply towels to wipe dirty paws (for dogs)
• Identify anyone who has access and permission to enter your home while you are away
• The name and phone number of a nearby neighbor or friend who you trust
• Where you keep your pet food, cat litter, treats, and medicine
• Show where you keep paper towels, leashes, bowls, can opener and cleaning products
• Locate main electrical switch and main water shut off
• Please make sure that all your pet supplies are well stocked. We do not supply these without a fee.
• If during the initial consultation your dog growls or snaps at the pet sitter, alternative arrangements for your dog's care might be required during your absence.

Question not answered? Ask it! These are based on prior questions by clients. Your question is important and we want to hear it! Email your question to Hedy.