How do I go about hiring a pet sitter?
You should 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 before you leave so they can get acquainted with you and your pet, and also to fill out necessary paperwork regarding the care of your pets and home.

What should I expect?
I am sure you read some of our other pages, so we won't bore you with repeating them. Our pet sitting service is based on the simple premise of great customer service.

What happens at the initial set-up visit?
You are filling out paperwork, like the contract, vet releases, pet profiles, etc. After all the paperwork is complete, you and the pet sitter 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, a non-master alarm code, and payment. The first visit is over.

You want payment up front!
Like most service companies, Hedy's Pet Sitting requires up front payment. Either by cash, check, credit card, or money order. 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.

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 me. 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.

Do I need to contact the pet sitter when I get back home?
It is extremely important that you let Hedy's Pet Sitting know when you arrive back home. If I am not notified of your return, I will make another trip to your house to take care of your pets and there will be additional charges. If something did happen to delay your return, you would not want your pets to go hungry.

What information do I need to gather before the initial set-up visit?

• 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
• A house key for the sitter (Hedy's Pet Sitting will not 'sit' for anyone refusing to give a key upon completion of the paperwork)
• If the house key is new, please make sure it works
• 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 daogs)
• 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
• Please make sure that all your pet supplies are well stocked. Critter Sitters does 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.