You’ve Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
What is in home pet sitting?
In home pet sitting is when a pet care provider comes to your home for scheduled visits, and cares for your pet(s) in their own environment. The visits are customized to meet the needs and routines of your pet(s). The sitter comes when and as often as you wish and can even spend the night. Your home will also be cared for with an in home pet sitter. They will bring in the mail and newspaper, pick up packages and flyers, adjust your TV or radio, alternate lights and blinds, and even water plants. This gives your home a “lived in feel” to deter burglars.
Why should I use a pet sitter rather than board my pet(s)?
We feel that your pet’s routine should not be disturbed unless absolutely necessary. By boarding your pet(s), you risk their comfort, health, and social well-being. Just the ride to the boarding facility alone can be a hassle for you, as well as stressful for your pet(s). Having a professional pet sitter come to your home is the next best thing to having you there. You also have the added benefit that it may be a crime deterrent.
I already have a pet sitter – why should I switch to Park Cities Pet Sitter?
Park Cities Pet Sitter, Inc. is a professional pet care organization that has been in business since 1992. We work as a team and have over 40 employees to ensure we are always there to meet your needs. Our sitters are provided with the support and tools to give you the best, most reliable service available anywhere. Honesty and integrity are vital ingredients of everything we say and do. While individual pet service providers can be capable and responsible, they often cannot offer you their services 365 days a year, guaranteed. And if those individuals have an emergency of their own, who will step in to care for your pet(s)? You will never have that worry with our service.
Are you bonded and insured?
Yes, we are a bonded and insured member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International.
Who are your pet sitters?
Our pet sitters are mature, responsible animal lovers who are carefully selected based on their experience and high quality ethics. All sitters are employees, and go through a thorough background and reference check. They are then sent through our training program, that is designed to underscore home security, safety for your pet(s), and the highest possible quality standards. Our sitters love what they do and it shows!
Can I meet my sitter?
Absolutely! When you become a new client of Park Cities Pet Sitter, we will schedule a consultation with a sitter in your area. They will meet you and your pet(s), go over the home/pet details you entered in our online scheduling software, become familiar with your home, and discuss all pertinent information about your pet(s) and home needs. We know that you and your pet(s) like the same familiar face, so you will (in most cases), have the same sitter unless you move to another area of town. If your sitter is not available, another one of our 40 qualified professional pet sitters most likely will be. If you give us enough notice, we will offer you a meeting with your back up sitter. We strive for consistency, which is another element that sets us apart from other pet care providers.
What type of animals do you pet sit?
We care for dogs, cats, birds, fish, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, squirrels, chickens, turtles, frogs, snakes, goats, you name it, we will care for it (in most cases).
How many times a day will you visit? What about overnight?
We try to accommodate every situation; the least frequent service we offer is every other day (usually for cats or caged pets). We can do one to four visits per day, a combination of extended visits and/or overnights – whichever fits the needs of you and your pet(s). We will be happy to discuss your requirements and help you come up with a schedule of services to fit your needs.
Can you give my pet medication?
All of our sitters are able to give pills, liquids, and topical medications to most pets. Many of our sitters are also able to give needle administered medications like insulin and allergy shots, and in some cases, sub-q fluids.
What happens if my pet becomes sick or injured?
We are committed to the excellent care of your pet(s). Should your pet become sick or injured, we will follow the procedures listed on our emergency page.
Can I have someone share pet sitting duties with my friends or family?
Consistency is vital to providing the best possible care. While it is ideal for our sitter to provide all the care during the entire period, we will agree to share that service with whomever you entrust to help out, in most cases. However, we do require that you provide us with their name and contact information, and we ask that you provide them with ours. They must know that they can contact us 24/7 if they cannot fulfill their part of the service, and we will take over the entire service immediately. We also require that a written log be left in the home, with both the friend/family member signing with date & time each visit, and our sitter will do the same. If they do not sign & date for a time they were to have been there, and we cannot reach them or you, we will take over the entire service immediately. The best interest of your pet(s) and home are our utmost concern, and our years of experience have shown us that communication is key to a successful outcome.
What if I need last minute service?
When “life happens”, you can rely on us to be there for you and your pet(s). Once you are established as a client, we can service you same day if needed. This is another great reason to keep your keys on file with our service, one less detail to worry about. Visit our emergency page for the procedure to contact us immediately for such requests.
I never have time to go to the groomer or vet – can you help?
Yes! We offer a pet taxi service to take them wherever they need to go. Your sitter can take your pet(s) to and from their appointment. While 24-hour notice is ideal, if you have an emergency, we will make every effort to accommodate your needs. If you need someone to stay with the pet(s) and get instructions, your professional pet sitter can meet with the doctor, obtain a written diagnosis, and pick up any required medications.
Does my dog need to be on a leash if he is off-leash trained?
ABSOLUTELY! While your dog may be off-leash trained, it is our strict policy to always keep your pet(s) on a leash while in our care outside of your home or yard. This will ensure we have control over any unforeseen problems that may arise. There is also a leash law in many areas.
Will my dog be walked in extreme temperatures or weather?
You should discuss with your sitter how best to care for your pets in extreme weather. During the high temperatures in the summer, our walks will be brief. We do not want your pet(s) or our sitters to become overexposed, and suffer from heat exhaustion. During severe thunderstorms, or if road and walking conditions become dangerous, we will do all we can to ensure your pet(s) get out for a potty break. We will resume regular walking schedules once the severe weather has passed.
Will you pick up after our pet(s)?
Your sitter will pick after your pet(s) when they are out on their walk. They will also pick up after your pet(s) if they go in your yard while under their care, if requested. We do not offer full poop scooping services. We will also, of course, take care of all kitty boxes. If your pet(s) get sick in your home, we will clean up after them, in most cases (if special cleaning may be required, we will contact you for further instructions). If this requires extended time beyond your visit, there may be an additional charge.
Will my sitter have their own supplies to clean up after my pet(s)?
You are responsible for providing your pet sitter with all cleaning supplies, including bags for picking up or scooping waste, paper towels, carpet cleaners, etc. Please go over any specific details with your sitter for anything that requires special care, i.e. delicate or expensive carpets and rugs.
How do you handle my keys and access to my property?
Ideally two working keys should be given to your sitter when you meet them for the first time. Keeping your keys on file ensures that we are ready for future service at a moment’s notice. If you require your key(s) to be returned at the end of service, there will be a charge for future key pick up or drop off arrangements. PLEASE TEST ALL NEWLY MADE KEYS TO SEE THAT THEY WORK PROPERLY! If you live in a gated community, you will also be required to provide your sitter with a gate code or an access device before the service starts. We have options if you would prefer not to pay a pick up and drop off fee. If we have to go through a concierge or leasing office, please keep in mind that the time we are there takes away from the time we would normally spend with your pet(s) OR there may be additional charges for extra time. We are happy to help you work out the details as we have many years of experience dealing with most properties in Dallas!
What do I do if I’m ready to book service?
You have three options. If you are a new client, you may go to BOOK NOW in the Menu Bar, and then choose “New Clients.” Follow the online instructions to conveniently schedule your service. You may also email us at
pets@pcpsi.com, or call our office at 214-828-0192.
If you are an existing client, and thus have already been set up with an account in our online scheduling system, please go to BOOK NOW in the Menu Bar, and then choose “Existing Clients.” Follow the online instructions to schedule your service.
How and when is payment received?
Payment is due at the start of service, and a working credit card must be kept on file. We accept MC/Visa, AMEX and Discover for payment. You will receive a confirmation email approximately 3-4 days prior to the start of your service, reminding you of the amount due. Your credit card will be charged on the first day service begins, or shortly thereafter.
Does my sitter accept tips?
Yes. Tips are not required, but for a job well-done, tips are always appreciated! You may include them in your check, leave cash, or have a tip put on your credit card. To use your credit card for tipping, just call or email the office and tell us the amount or percentage you would like to give. 100% of all tips go to your sitter.
Can I contact my sitter directly?
Yes. You and your sitter may talk directly about the care of your pet(s) and home, but all reservations – including changes and cancellations – must be made directly with the office.
Are there any extra charges for holiday care?
We charge a $10/day holiday fee for these days:
New Year’s Day
Memorial Day
4th of July
Labor Day
Thanksgiving
Christmas Eve
Christmas
New Year’s Eve
For major holidays, we require two weeks notice to avoid a late booking fee.
What is your cancellation policy?
A 24-hour notice for all NON HOLIDAY cancellations is required. There is no refund for service that is canceled same day. However the remainder of the visits beyond that will be held as a credit. During the holiday period (determined by the office), ALL cancellations (except for Overnight & Extended Tuck-In service) should be made at least one week prior to scheduled service. During the holiday period, last-minute cancellations will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds will be given for service during the holiday period after the job has been started. ALL Overnight and Extended Tuck-In services are subject to a 50% nonrefundable deposit at the time of booking. Overnight and Extended Tuck-In service cancellations during a holiday period must be made two weeks prior to avoid a FULL charge for the Overnight or Extended Tuck-In portion of your booking. No refunds will be given on Overnight or Extended Tuck-In service after the job has been started. All credits given will remain on account for up to two years to be applied to future service.
What if I am unsatisfied with my sitter or my service?
We encourage you to contact us if you are not satisfied in any way with your sitter or your service. We will address any issues, and hopefully rectify whatever problems you may have had.
Do you have a referral program?
Yes! Our best advertising is a happy client! Refer our service to a friend, family member, or co-worker, and we will give you $25 towards your next service with us. They must mention your name when they book their service. A gift certificate will be sent to you when their first service is complete.
