Our initial meeting will be a consultation which costs nothing and implies no obligation for us to work together. This is a good time for us to ask each other some questions, get paperwork filled out, and decide if we both think I’m a good fit to work with your pets. Some folks also ask for copies of my proof of insurance coverage, which I always have on hand.
Mr. F
During this consultation some people like to take care of the Reservation Deposit. (The Reservation Deposit is 50% of the service fee which is due 48 hours prior to the first visit. The remaining 50% is due at the time of the first visit.)
The consultation typically takes 45-60 minutes and can be scheduled at your convenience, including evenings or weekends. My ideal is for us to meet at least a week before services are needed. This gives you time to be certain that you and your pets are comfortable with me – if not, you still have time to meet with other sitters.
At this meeting (or at another time at least a few days before I begin working with your pets), I’ll get a copy of the house key(s) and security system information. When I make special trips to pickup or return keys, I charge a Key Pickup/Return fee. (Click here to view key-related policies.) Of course, if I will be visiting your pets while you are at home, I won’t need these things.
During the initial consultation, let’s not force your pets to like me. Some pets are shy and don’t warm up to new people immediately. I think it’s best to allow everyone to have control over how quickly they bond with me. Some friendships simply don’t begin as like at first sight. Rather, with time and patience, trust can build and we can become friends.
Sadie
Some people whose pets take medication like me to practice giving medication while they are also present. This isn’t required, but it is an option if you want to evaluate my ability to give medications. I would not be offended if someone decides to find a different sitter or to board their pets instead. Many medications simply cannot be skipped and I don’t want to take any chances, nor would I want someone to worry that their pets might be missing some medications.
Another thing that people with special needs pets like to arrange are trial visits. These aren’t necessary, but can be useful. These trial visits enable people to observe their pets responses to having me care for them before the pets are totally relying on me. Again, I would not be offended if someone decides to work with a different sitter or to board their pets instead. What’s most important is your confidence in me and your pets’ comfort with me.
During our initial meeting, I will ask a lot of questions so I can be sure to provide the service you want and so that I come as close as possible to keeping the pets on their usual routines. Below are some of the questions I’ll ask. If you’d like to review the entire list of questions before we meet, let me know.
- What is their breed? What does their fur look like (markings, length, etc)? Are they spayed/neutered? Are they indoor only, outdoor only, or indoor & outdoor? Are they de-clawed? Do they wear collars and tags? Are they microchipped?
- Do they have (or have a history of) health issues (ex: vision loss, seizures, diabetes) or allergies?
- What are their food and feeding routines (brands & flavors of food; location of food; feeding routines)?
- What are their temperaments (Ex: like/dislike physical affection, vocal affection, aggressive play)?
- What are a few of their favorite things? (Ex: favorite toys, activities, treats, and hiding spots.)
- Do your pets have any unusual habits? (Ex: change in bowel movements or eating habits when left alone.)
- What words do they recognize? (Ex: din-din, treats, kitty-kitty, NO.)
- Are they on any medications or supplements?
- Do they have a history of aggression towards people or animals?
- Do they have behavioral issues (past or present)?
- Where do you keep leashes, crates, cleaning supplies, waste bags, litter, “muddy-ok” towels, and other pet supplies?
Logan
- What is your preference for disposal of waste (from litter boxes and poop scooping in the yard)?
- What is the contact information for emergency contacts (include landlord if you’re renting)?
- What is the contact information for you while I’m caring for the pets?
- What is your veterinarian’s name and contact info?
- What is the closest emergency veterinarian to your address?
- Do you have pet-owner insurance?
- Have you filled out a Veterinary Release Form or set up a line of credit at your vet, in case of emergency?
- How did you hear about me?
- Who has access to this address? (Do your emergency contacts have keys?)
- Who has permission to enter the premises?
- What vehicles will remain parked at your home while I’m caring for your pets?
- Where are your fire extinguishers, thermostats, and circuit breakers?
- Do you have an earthquake or emergency kit? If so, where are they located? If not, do you have flashlights, candles, and other emergency supplies?
- When will you need me to care for your pets?
- How frequently should I visit and how long should I spend with the pets?
- Would they prefer that I visit at specific times?
- Do you want me to leave radio/TV on; alternate lights & curtains; change the thermostat; bring in mail or newspapers; take out trash/recycling; or water plants?
- Do you want a receipt from me?
- Do you want me to keep your keys for future visits? (If you prefer to not participate in the Ready Key Program, we will arrange for me to pickup and return your keys each time that you make a reservation.)
- Do you want Daily Activity Reports through phone or email instead of hard copy?
- May I contact you if I have questions about your pets care, particularly if something seems amiss?
