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FAQ + FORMS

FAQ

How do I know if I need a pet sitter? What if a friend or neighbor can care for my pet(s)?

Taking care of someone’s pet(s) is a huge responsibility. Do you want to impose this on a friend, relative, or neighbor? Most people are busy and may not be able to devote the time and attention your pet(s) may require.

What are the benefits of using Homeward Hounds for pet sitting?

Your pet(s) stay in their familiar surroundings while being cared for by a professional who is licensed, insured and background checked through AcuTech.

Owner Suzi Abrams is a member of Pet Sitters International and has passed the background check done by AcuTech. She has been a pet sitter since 2008 and established Homeward Hounds as a family-owned business. Suzi, along with one employee, Denise (who fills in when necessary) guarantee the same sitter on each visit and offer stability and consistency of service and care.

Pet(s) receive plenty of love and attention and their routines are not disrupted. We are certified in pet CPR, first aid, wound care and are equipped to handle emergencies.

Are there other benefits to using Homeward Hounds for pet sitting?

The pet sitter also keeps watch on your home and will bring in mail and packages, rotate lights and window treatments to give your residence an “at home” appearance, take your trash to the curb on pick up day, and water your plants. If your travel plans change, we continue to care for your pet(s) and home until you return.

Is an initial consultation mandatory?

Yes and it’s free!  The purpose of this meet and greet is to explain our policies and procedures, fill out new customer forms, get to know you and your pets and vice versa, obtain a key (2 keys are needed, one is kept in our office vault as a back-up), get details on your pet(s) and home and answer any questions.

Do I have to sign a contract?

Yes. It is a record of your agreement to allow us into your home to care for your animals. It makes sure you are aware of our policies and procedures when we pet sit.

What forms do I need to fill out and sign?

Contract/Policies and Procedures, Client Information, Medication Waiver + Veterinarian Release. These are all combined into one document for your convenience, please follow the link below to download and print:

How do you work, and what are your rates?

Prices are based on number of pets and location. All services are available seven days a week, from 7:30 am to 9:30 pm. Before and after hour appointments are available, but additional fees apply. There is a $10 surcharge for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, Easter, and the Fourth of July. There is an additional $10 surcharge for appointments before 7 am and after 9:30 pm.

Please refer to our SERVICES + RATES page for a full breakdown of both.

How do I pay for services?

Cash, checks and Venmo.

When is payment due?

Payment must be made in full on or before the first scheduled visit.

How are gratuities handled?

Gratuities are graciously accepted and appreciated. They may be given directly to your pet sitter, or added onto credit card payments.

How do you handle pet accidents and destruction of property?

We will make every attempt to clean up accidents with supplies you have on hand for this purpose.  If you have no suitable supplies, we will purchase them for you and add the cost to the final bill. Please be aware that not all accidents can be completely erased, no matter what product is used.  If you have scheduled two visits per day for your pet and we routinely find we are cleaning up feces and urine at each visit, we will begin visiting your pet(s) three times per day.  If this occurs, you will be notified and billed accordingly.

My pet requires medication. Is that a problem?

Absolutely not and there is no extra charge!  We are accustomed to administering pills, insulin injections, eye drops, ear drops and any other personal requests.

What time will you visit my pets?

In general, specific visit times cannot be guaranteed. Two visits per day scheduled approximately twelve hours (12) apart is standard, unless another agreement is necessary. Three visits per day are scheduled approximately eight (8) hours apart. In the case of time-sensitive medication issues, or if your pet(s) are on a set schedule, special arrangements can be made.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations must be received within 48 hours of scheduled visit or a cancellation fee of $50 will apply.

What happens when I return home?

Please text or call Suzi at 404-509-1787 to confirm your return.

Will I always have the same pet sitter?

Yes, Suzi is always your assigned sitter. In the rare event of a vacation, illness, or injury, Suzi provides several backup sitters who are trained and aware of all of your needs.

FORMS