FAQ's

Why not just have a friend, relative or neighbor look in on our pets?

For many people, a trusted neighbor or relative that is familiar with your home and pets may work just fine. However, they may have a change in plans and be unable to look after your pets. Pet sitting is our full-time job and we will enter into a contract with you to perform the services you need. We have experience dealing with animals and you will be confident knowing that a professional is caring for your pets and your home while you are away.

Do you offer doggy daycare?

Not in the traditional sense. We do, however, provide an alternative to doggy daycare with mid-day visits. The purpose of a doggy daycare is to occupy your dog with activities that will enable him to deal with monotony and excess energy. We can fill this need with either a brisk walk or a fun-filled activity such as fetching a ball or Frisbee. You can enjoy the same benefits as doggy daycare without the hassle of having to drop-off and pick-up your pet, and they will remain in the comfort and safety of your home.

Isn't this expensive?

If you have multiple pets, pet sitting often is more affordable than boarding or doggy daycare. Plus, you can be confident knowing that your home is being looked after and we offer extra home care services (plant care, mail/newspaper retrieval, taking trash/recyclables out, etc.) you won't receive if your pets are boarded. You will feel secure knowing that your pet is comfortable in his/her own environment with the pet sitter adhering to the pet's regular routine and receiving individual attention.

What should I expect at the free initial consultation?

The initial consultation visit is an opportunity for you to meet us and for us to meet you and get to know your pets. Questions or concerns you have can be addressed at this time. We will gather specifics from you regarding the care of your pets such as their feeding schedule, favorite games and toys, hiding spots and any required medications. This will ensure that we can provide your pets with the best treatment while you are away. We will also review your home care instructions such as watering plants, adjusting lights and bringing in mail/paper, etc. We will also complete paperwork and pick up a key. When we leave your home, you will be confident that your pet and home will be in good hands while you're gone. This meeting is for new clients only. After the initial consultation, plans can be arranged over the phone.

How much time will you spend with my pet?

It depends! The amount of time we spend depends on your pet's needs. We will typically spend between 20 and 30 minutes. If your visit requires more than 30 minutes, additional time will be billed at $20 per hour, in 15 minute increments.

Will you provide updates on how my pet is doing while I am away?

We will maintain a daily diary of what occurs in your home at each visit. If you will have internet access while you are away and would like brief email updates, we can arrange that with you on an individual basis. In addition, we welcome phone calls to check in on how your pets are doing while you are away.

What animals do you pet sit?

We are comfortable with most pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, most reptiles and other small pets. If we aren't experienced with a certain variety of pet, we will either decline the job or ask you to teach us if you are willing.

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.

What if the pet sitter has an emergency? Who will take care of my pets and home?

Wags to Whiskers is operated by a husband/wife team. Laura provides pet sitting services on a full-time basis. Brian is the main back-up and accompanies Laura on many of her visits to familiarize himself with the animals. In addition, Wags to Whiskers maintains a great working relationship with other pet sitters in the area who can be called upon in an emergency. Laura also has family in town in the event that arrangements can’t be made with another professional pet sitter. You can rest assured that we will take care of your pets and homes no matter what!

Do your caregivers perform their duties alone?

For the most part, yes. Brian accompanies Laura on many of her visits to meet the animals and learn their routine so that he can provide back-up care in the event of an emergency. In addition, we may take someone along with us for late night visits and overnight stays. This is for our own safety and peace of mind.

What if my pet should require the care of a veterinarian while I am away?

We hope this will never happen, but we do plan for this, just in case. One of the questions we ask you when we schedule our services, is who your pet's veterinarian is, and whether we have your permission to have your pet treated, should the need arise. We will always try to contact you and your emergency contact immediately before taking action if possible. If your veterinarian office is closed we take pets to an emergency vet clinic.

Will you charge me for visits if I come home early?

You will not be charged for unfulfilled visits if you return home early, but it is extremely important that you let us know immediately if you will be arriving home early from your vacation in order for care to be discontinued. If you do not call us and we show up for our scheduled appointment, you will be charged.