Pet NANNY NYC'S FAQ'S AND POLICIES
Do I board animals in my home?
No. I do not board cats or dogs nor do I have a pet daycare.
Do you operate on holidays?
Yes, I available 7 days a week/365 days
Do I accommodate shared visits with another pet sitter or your friend / family to visit your pet while you are away.
No - for insurance/liability reason I will not accommodate shared visits. If you have questions about this, please ask. If you hire me, and while away, have an unexpected house guest or family member, my services for pet visits/overnight pet sitting will terminate and you will be/are still responsible for payment on invoice you've paid/about to pay and/or will not receive a refund or credit for days I don't come because of the above reason. Again, if you have questions, please ask.
What does the FREE consultation consist of? Is there a charge for this?
You and I will schedule a time when I can come to your home and meet with you and your pet(s). At this time, we will discuss the particulars of the sitting/visits/walks & exactly what you are looking for when I come. I will also have you fill out a few forms detailing information about your pet(s). All in person consultations are required before I will take a new client. Only exception is those on hotel stays. During the consultation, I will answer all your questions, and provide any information that you need. This time also gives me and your pet(s) a chance to get to know each other. The consultation is free of charge, however, if you feel you would like 2 meetings, there will be a $20 service fee. Please have spare key ready at this time.
Hiring a pet sitter/dog walker - and the trust involved : Hiring a dog walker/ pet sitter online that one doesn’t know can be hard experience, my coming into your home, the trust involved not only to watch over/take care of your baby/babies but also look after your home. it can be a daunting experience for some…(In the even you have a friend/co-worker etc recommending me) It’s nice at least I’m sure that you have a good friend or someone close to you who can recommend someone. I know for me hiring someone so many years ago when I first found Leonardo (my son), I didn’t know who to trust. Which can be hard for someone blinding going online looking. I don't minimize this experience at all. As I've been through it myself, I've had clients tell me after they have gotten to know me they finally feel they can go away on vacation. That is my hope. I never went away on vacation because of my fears. Kind of funny what I do now but I love what I do and I love helping heling people and their babies.
Am I bonded and insured?
YES, I certainly am and can provide documentation upon request.
Do you board pets in your home?
No, o not provide boarding services. For me to give your me pets the highest quality care, I feel it is important for them to stay in their familiar environment.
What if my pet gets sick or injured while in your care?
During our consultation, you will provide me with your veterinarian's contact information. I will transport your pet to your vet and contact you immediately. You will also be signing a Veterinary Release Form, so that I can supply all necessary information to the vet. If possible, I would like for you to choose a local emergency animal hospital in case your preferred vet is unavailable. I have a preferred vet on hand, as well. If there is an immediate emergency, your pet will be taken to the nearest animal hospital at which time you will be contacted immediately.
What are some reasons you won’t take me on as a client?
If you have declawed your cat/or plan to declaw your cat. If you have a rescue cat who is already declawed This policy doesn't apply to you. No exceptions!
If you debark your dog. If you have rescued a dog who is debarked this policy doesn't apply to you.
No exceptions!
(If you would like further explanation or have questions about why debarking and declawing is a bad idea...please do feel free to contact me. I am happy to talk with you,)
You are a hoarder and or your apt. / house is unclean.
You don't adhere to my Service Agreement.
What hours are you available by phone?
If you are away, and have a pet in my care, please call anytime. I understand the need to know how your little ones are doing. If I am away from my phone, please leave a message and I will return your call immediately. I can also make prior arrangements before you leave as to what time of day would be best to call. If you are calling for a pet sitting appointment, office hours are from 7:30am to 8:00pm Monday-Sunday, If I am unavailable to answer my phone, please leave a voice message and I will return your call as soon as possible.
Will you need vaccination records?
Yes, for all dogs I will need to see proof of rabies for all dogs in my care. Cats I'm more flexible, because I do realize not all kitties get rabies shots. Especially so because NYC kitties are indoor kitties.
How much notice is needed to schedule service?
I appreciate as much notice as you can give me to ensure that I will be available. For dog walking services a minimum of 24 hr notice is appreciated. For vacation sitting service – to ensure my availability- the sooner is better. I do book up quickly over the holidays so it’s best to try and book me or at least call me to check availability several months in advance.
Do you offer last minute service?
I really will do my best to accommodate last minute service.
What if I get delayed and can't make it home in time?
If you get delayed, I recommend you calling me as soon as possible, I will continue care for your pets until you arrive home. For last minute delays/delays that fall out of office hours, you should contact me directly. An addition fee might be required.
What if my property is damaged while I am away?
I agree to provide all services in a reliable, caring and trustworthy manner. However, I am only liable for claims arising from negligence or willful misconduct on my part. Due to the extreme unpredictability of animals, I will not accept responsibility for unusual mishaps (i.e., bites, furniture damage, spills, pet stains, etc.).
What types of animals do you care for?
I care for most animals, if do not pose a danger to me. I have experience caring for dogs, cats, birds, fish, hamsters, rabbits. I do not care for any animals with a history of biting, fighting or attacking people. If they are not friendly towards me on the consult I may not be able to do any pet sitting for you.
Do you provide references?
Yes, references are given to you on the consult.
Are my keys, alarm codes and personal information safe?
I keep your key in a secure location in my home. For your security, keys are labeled with your pet's name only (not your name, address, or phone number). Pet Nanny NYC also guarantees that all client's personal information will be kept confidential, I do not share any information received with anyone.
What happens when I get back from my trip?
I do require that you contact me as soon as possible upon your return, I leave you out a postcard reminding you of this. In the event you don’t call, I will call you. If I cannot reach you (ex: 12 hours since last visit and no contact), I am obligated to make an additional visit to ensure the safety and welfare of your pet(s). You will be charged, even if you are home. Many things can happen, and I don't want your pets to be left alone in the event you have been delayed or in an accident. Remember, I am a pet parent also! I am dedicated to the well-being of all pets and treat them as a member of my extended family! I LOVE my job and I do take it seriously!
How you discipline dogs?
I am a big advocate of positive reinforcement (using good treats and praise) because it's the fastest way to train dogs. Not only that, there are no negative side effects sometimes found with negative reinforcement.
My cat is very shy. What will you do if you can't find her?
I have experience with pets of many temperaments. If your cat is shy, I ask that you acquaint me with your cat's favorite hiding places. When I arrive for a visit, I will search for your cat. If they can't be found, I will still stay at your house for the full visit time that you stipulated in your contract. I will also check that your cat is eating and using the litter box to make sure that your cat is just being shy and is not injured.
When I go out of town, how many visits per day should I schedule?
Generally, I recommend three visits per day for a dog and one visit per day for a healthy cat. Of course, you know best how often your pet is used to going out or being fed. I work with you to set up a schedule that's comfortable for you and your pet.
How often should a dog be walked?
It depends on the age and breed, but generally dogs need at least a minimum of 3 to 4 30 minute walks per day.
What are mid-day breaks and how would my pet(s) benefit from them?
Many pet parents work full time jobs and cannot get home to let their pet outside during the day. It also provides dog parents the opportunity to go out with friends after work without returning home first. Crated dogs or puppies get time to stretch their legs and break up the boredom of a long day, and it also helps with house training. High energy pets may need a mid-day break to help them be more relaxed at night when their owners return home.
Why should I use a pet sitter?
When you are away your pets routine is disrupted, by engaging a pet sitter your pet can stay in familiar surroundings and receive plenty of love and attention while in their own home. Sending your pet to a boarding facility can be a traumatic experience for both you and your pet. They will be exposed to unfamiliar surroundings and possibly the illness of other animals. For some pets being transported can be stressful. In addition, a pet sitter will watch over your home while you are away. A pet sitter can water plants, bring in the mail, turn on/off lights, open/close blinds and notify should there be a problem with your pet or your home.
How many visits a day do you provide?
That is your decision. For dogs, I recommend a minimum of two (2) visits per day. Most people request 3 visits a day for smaller, older dogs, or high energy dogs. It really depends on your dog's needs. For cats and other animals, I do a minimum of one (1) visit per day. I do not recommend skipping days. Anything could happen in the time I don’t see your pet such as their claws can get hung in something, their collar caught on something, they can lock themselves in rooms, get trapped behind or in things not to mention they could get diarrhea, sudden UTI's, become deathly ill, etc….. I know these are worse case scenarios, but it happens, anything could happen to your home and something minor could turn into something major in 48 hours. As a professional pet sitter, I am always concerned about the safety and wellbeing of any pet in my care. I must be sure there is plenty of food, fresh water and a clean litter box for cats as we all know they like a clean bathroom daily.
How do I prepare for my pet sitter to come? A list below are a few things you can do to prepare: 0
Make sure you leave enough food, treats, litter, paper towels, a dog towel for rainy days and poop bags just in case you’re not able to return when planed.
Leave out detailed instructions for all medications. (If something has changed from our consultation).
Put ID/microchip tags on all pets and their current rabies tag.
Leave out favorite toys out for pet to play with or a new toy we can give them.
Put potentially dangerous plants or decorations out of your pets reach.
Shut off all rooms or areas where pets are not allowed, some people put a baby gate, stools or large mats on furniture they don't want their pets on.
Set the thermostat to keep the house comfortable for the pet during your absence, if I thinks it's too hot or cold, I will adjust it.
If you have preferred maintenance companies leave their numbers as well, in case of emergency. If you rent leave your landlord's contact information.
Can we have our family or friends check in on the pets while we are away?
If there should be anyone other than me in your house. I need to be fully aware of this before the contract date. You should make your neighbors, family members, and friends aware that I am pet sitting in order to avoid any complications or misunderstandings. Please do not have them feed your pets, I do leave logs and would appreciate a note from them that they were there in case anything is moved or different I know why.
Do I have to have another meeting and fill out another service contract every time I need pet sitting?
No. Once your service agreement is on file, a quick e-mail or phone call to me is all you need to book service.
Do you give my pets medications if needed?
Yes, I am happy to administer any oral or topical medications to your pet. I also provide the care for pets requiring injections or sub-Q fluids.
Payment Method
Cash, Paypal, Venmo, CashApp or personal check. There will be a $50.00 charge (cash) for overdrawn checks.
Payment Schedule
All payments to Pet Nanny NYC will be made prior to service. Contact me directly for payment schedule for additional information.
Do you charge a Holiday fee?
I do charge a small additional fee over the major national holidays of $10.00 per each visit. I will let you know this at the time you book service.