Providing Reliable, Professional Pet Care in Hackettstown, NJ Since 2017
FAQ
What happens at the Client Consult?
Your initial consultation typically runs 30-45 minutes and allows me to visit with you and your pets in your home and ensures we are a good fit all around. I’ll go over my service agreement and policies, and you can ask any questions you may have about any aspect of care. I’ll interact with your pets, as well as note any follow-up details that may not be clear from your online account. I’ll review their care, habits and medical history. If you have a fenced yard, I may do a visual inspection to ensure that all gates/fencing is secure. For pet sitting, I’ll do a walk-through of your home layout (pet areas only) to see the locations of food, trash, litter boxes etc. Alarm systems and security features of your home will also be discussed at this time. For dog walking, I like to do a trial walk (with owner) to ascertain how well the dog walks on a leash.
Do you board pets at your home?
No, all pets are cared for in the comfort of their own home.
What animals do you care for?
In addition to most common indoor pets, I can also care for chickens and small farm animals. Some exclusions apply.
Do you care for indoor/outdoor cats?
Yes, but all cats will need to remain indoors while under our care, with the exception of barn or feral cats.
Will you need a key?
Yes, please have at least one key ready for the consultation. All keys are kept secure in a locked safe when not in use. Keys are labeled with your pet’s name(s) only, never with an address or human name. Garage doors are an acceptable means of entry, but vacation clients must still provide a key for backup in the event of power failure or garage door malfunction.
What’s included in a visit?
Our visits include all care related to keeping your pet healthy, hydrated, and happy while you’re gone, as well as maintaining a clean living environment. I’m happy to collect mail and packages, water plants, take out trash and do a general house check.
Do you require vaccinations?
Cats and dogs must be current on rabies vaccination or have a written exemption from their vet. In addition, all pets, when applicable, must have a regular veterinarian.
Do you require minimum visits?
Yes. Dogs are social animals, and can become despondent when left alone for long periods. For vacation bookings, I will visit your dog at least 3x per day. This requirement may be waived in a multi-pet household where your dogs have “buddies” AND have access to a dog door. For cats or other small pets, I require at least once a day visits for the pet’s safety and well-being.
Do you charge extra for holidays?
Yes, please check HERE for the holidays that incur an additional charge.
What is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter?
Pet Sitters International developed the CPPS program as a continuing education course designed specifically for professional pet sitters. Course topics include all aspects of care related to pet health, behavior, and nutrition, as well as ethical business practices. The certification is valid for 3 years. It must be renewed by enrolling in continuing education courses, seminars and conferences related to animal care and business operations.
Why should we choose Blue Ribbon over so many other pet sitters?
While there may be dozens of people who offer pet sitting in a community, not all have the same qualifications. It’s fairly easy to make up a business card or a Facebook page to announce that one is a pet sitter. To determine if the person is qualified beyond simply loving animals, you need to investigate a bit. Are they trustworthy to be in your home alone? Are they mature and competent to handle unexpected pet or home emergencies? If something goes wrong, will they be right by your side until the issue is resolved? My business is fully insured should anything unforeseen happen to your pet OR your property while under my care. I participate in on-going training to stay up-to-date in pet education. Of course, I’m delighted if you choose Blue Ribbon for your pet care, but my main concern is the welfare and security of your pets and home. Choose wisely. It matters. Click here to decide if your potential sitter is a wise choice.
What forms of payment do you accept?
I gladly accept cash, checks, and secure credit card.