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979 - 2275
Frequently Asked Questions...
Where does my pet stay?
Your pet stays in the comfort and safety of your home.
Does the sitter stay in my home?
No. We make scheduled prearranged visits but we do not stay there.
Who provides the pet food and supplies?
You do. Please supply enough supplies to last the entire time you are gone. If you run out, you will charged a $12.00 fee for a trip to the store as well as for any supplies purchased.
Will you visit every other day?
No- for your pet's safey we must see your cats at least once a day.
What time of day to you visit?
Visits are made between 6 AM and 7 PM, but we do not specify an exact time on visits (except for dogs) although we generally visit around the same time every day in your absence. If you want me to visit your cat at a specific time, there is an extra charge.
When do I pay you and what forms of payment do you accept?
You pay up front at the time service is scheduled. We accept cash and personal checks. We accept credit cards through PayPal. Please make checks payable to "CatNip Pet Sitting." Please may PayPal payments to CatNipPetSitting.
Do you sit for dogs?
Yes! We are not accepting new dog clients as of 2008 to keep up with the demands of current clients.
What is your cancellation policy?
24-hour notice is required if you need to cancel visits. Please try to give as much notice as possible. If I show up and you have not notified me in 24 hour advance, you will be charged for the full visit, even if you are home.
How often will a sitter visit my home?
A minimum of 1 x per day for cats and 2 x per day for dogs.
What is entailed in each visit and how long does the visit last?
Cat visits average 20 to 30 minutes. Dog visits average 30 - 45 minutes. Each visit is customized at your request based on your needs. We try to follow your pet's routine as closely as possible. We feed, water, play, pet, and give TLC to each and every pet so your pet receives personal attention in your absence.
Why use CatNip rather than a Kennel?
Your pet gets to remain in the safety of its own environment avoiding stress from being away from his/her own home. It also reduces the stress from "travel trauma" and your pet is not exposed to any illness from unfamiliar animals or surroundings.
Are you Bonded or Insured?
We are insured for liability and we have special loss prevention protection through our insurance which is actually better than bonding.
What do you charge?
Please click here to view our service rates.
Do you offer boarding at this time?
No.
How do I get started?
Click here to make a reservation on-line or call 979-2275 to arrange an appointment time and we will schedule a free, no obligation in-home consultation to become acquainted with you and your pets and to address any questions or special needs you may have.
What Else Do You Do?
The sitter also watches over your home and gives your home that "lived-in look" during your absence by bringing in the mail and paper, alternating lights and curtains, watering plants, etc. The sitter will leave a daily log of what time the home was visited the house and what tasks were performed during the visit.
Your sitter uses a check-list like the one below but personalizes the list based on your personal needs to ensure each task is completed when a sitter visits your home. Check list for each visit includes but is not limited to:
____ Looks for signs of intrusion to property as you arrive at residence. Visually inspect all windows, window screens and check doors are locked.
____ Pick up all newspapers, flyers, packages left in yard or at door.
____ Check mailbox and take any items in mailbox inside to designated area
____ Immediately upon entry to home, disarm the Clients alarm system
____ Assess main living area on entry to home making sure everything is in place and there are no problems such as leaking pipes.
____ Mail / packages newspapers are placed where Client has designated
____ Fill out arrival Time on daily house note.
____ Greet the pets. Do a head count to make sure everyone is present and assure they have their tags and collars in place before going outside
____ Outside for potty break. (poop scoop done on each visit and deposited in designated place) clean up any accidents since last visit.
____ Playtime/reinforcement of basic traing commands/ and lots of TLC.
____ Back inside where Fresh food and water is served in clean bowls, Medication administered (Instructions for medications must be on file in office)
____ Each pet has their coat and paws inspected (daily brushing if requested)
____ Special Request are preformed (Watering of indoor /outdoor Plants, etc.)
____ Feeding areas floors are kept free of pet hair / food, and any accidents that may have occurred since last visit. (Including daily sweeping if needed)
____ Treats for pet are given if requested. After 2nd Potty break.
____ Bowls are washed and dried ready for next feeding, Fresh water available at all times.
____ Counter tops in feeding area are wiped down on each visit
____ Rotation of Blinds / Drapes are done
____ Rotation of Indoor / Outdoor Lights done (Outdoor lights are turned off during the day hours and at request turned on at night, or on return date)
____ TV/ Radio adjusted and on proper stations for pets.
____ Complete the daily notes, and leave on counter in kitchen.
____ Double check head counts, assure all pets accounted for before leaving
____ One last look around to assure all entry ways (windows, garage, patio doors) are secured, and everything is in place per Clients instructions.
____ Security alarm in enabled and double check the exit door is secured
Does CatNip have any special requirements of me?
We Require:
* 48 hours notice so that we have time to set up the initial consultation.
* Up-to-date vaccinations on pets
* Two keys to your home (one is a "backup" in case of emergency)
* All forms must be completed once you request service
* Your pets must wear a form of identification at all times while we are sitting unless otherwise agreed upon.
* We do not accept aggressive bites or sick pets that require constant medical care.
* We also require that you call us the day you leave for your trip and the day you return home.
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Pet Owners Guide
On Getting the Most from Pet Sitting
E-Mail Me by clicking on above picture
Before You Leave Service Tips...
*****Important*****
Call 240-7387 before you leave
to make sure our dates are correct.
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If your pet is not feeling well, let me know.
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Clean the litterbox and fill with fresh litter.
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Do a head count before leaving. You do not want to lock anyone in a closet or unused room.
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Make your reservations for a pet sitter as far in advance as possible.
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Please let your pet sitter know if you will be arriving home late on the day of the last visit.
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Please call to let your pet sitter know you are home safe!
Preparations
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Have everything in one place visible to your sitter.
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If you have keys made, PLEASE be sure they work.
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Please provide extra food, litter, and supplies just in case they are needed. You may not be able to return home when anticipated and the extras may become a necessity. We will be happy to pick up necessary supplies, although a fee will be charged.
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Supply plastic bags for sanitary disposal of feces.
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It is a good idea to clean out the refrigerator before leaving, to avoid smelly food spoilage, and to wash any dishes in the sink, to prevent ants or other pests.
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Please adjust your thermostat before leaving for the comfort of your pet(s). Closed-up homes can become dangerously hot in a short time.
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Make sure pets all accounted for - take care not to lock anybody in a closet or garage.
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Close any doors where you do not want pet to have access including kitchen, bathroom, closets.
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Close all screens and windows.
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Let us know the location of your cat carriers.
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Help us be a Friend to Your Pet
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Please let us know if you cat has a tendency to "wait" by the door or run out. To be extra cautious for the protection of your pets, we prefer to come in through an "enclosed area" such as a screened porch, laundry room, or garage. If your cat is an escape artist, we need to know. Please check out our "Resource" page on how to help correct this behavior
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Tell us about all minor and major health problems your pet(s) may have.
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Make sure the collar fits. Otherwise, your pet could slip out of a loose collar while being walked.
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If your dog is prone to chew, please leave chew toys and take proper precautions to guard your personal items and home furnishings.
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Leave an item of clothing you have recently worn where your pet(s) sleep to provide a "security blanket".
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Make a list of your pets favorite hiding places.
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Make your sitter aware of any unusual habits your pets have, i.e. destructive ehavior, change in bowel or eating habits when left alone.
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Provide a means of flea control.
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Let your sitter know which rooms are off limits and please close those doors or securely restrict your pets access.
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Be sure your sitter has the current number for your veterinarian.
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Safety
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Advise your sitter of anyone who may be on your premises or entering your home during your absence. Housekeeper, Relatives, Friends, etc.
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Instruct anyone else coming or going to make sure to securely lock door locks, pet area, & swimming pool area.
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Make sure all doors and windows are locked before leaving.
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Consider leaving a television or radio on while you are away. The noise can be a crime deterrent as well as provide companionship for your pet.
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Unplug any unnecessary appliances before you leave. This will prevent damage from electrical storms as well as injuries to mischievous pets.
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It is a good idea to continue your paper & mail service, the fewer people who know you are gone, the better.
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Reminders
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Please feel free to call and check on your pets between 7 AM and 7 PM EST.
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Please advise your veterinarian that CatNip will be caring for your pet(s) and authorize the vet to extend medical care during your absence, if it becomes necessary. You may also want to give the veterinarian your credit card number. .
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Take CatNip's phone number with you.
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Advise gate security that CatNip will be visiting your home and authorize entry.
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Inform your neighbors of your absence and use of a pet sitter.
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Give a key to a nearby neighbor as a backup in the event of extreme weather. Be sure to inform your sitter of the neighbors name & number and give your pet sitters name & number to your neighbor.
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Check List
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_________ Call CatNip before you leave!
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_________ Call CatNip to let us know you are home safe! We Worry!
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