FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Pet Sitting Questions: We’ve Got Answers!
These are some of the most frequently asked pet sitting questions we get about our company, employees and services.
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. Visits are customized to meet the needs and routines of your pet(s). The pet care professional comes when and as often as you wish, and can even spend the night. Your home is cared for with an in home pet sitter. They 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 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). A professional pet sitter coming 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 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 30 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. And if those individuals have an emergency of their own, who steps in to care for your pet(s)? You do not 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 undergo training 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! As a new client of Park Cities Pet Sitter, we schedule a consultation with a sitter in your area. They 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 30 qualified professional pet sitters is. If you give us enough notice, we 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, etc. You name it, we will care for it (in most cases).
How many times a day do you visit?
It is our goal to accommodate every situation. We can do one to four visits per day – whichever fits the needs of you and your pet(s). We are 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. Some sitters can give needle administered medications like: insulin and allergy shots, and in some cases, sub-q fluids.
What happens if my pet is sick or injured?
We are committed to the excellent care of your pet(s). If a pet becomes sick or injured, we will follow the procedures listed on our emergency page.
Can you share pet sitting duties with my friends or family?
Consistency = great care. While it is preferred that our sitter provides all the care during the entire period, we can share that service with whomever you entrust to help out, in most cases.
We require that you provide us with their name/contact information, and you provide them with ours. They must know that they can contact us 24/7 if they cannot perform their duties, and we will take over the entire service immediately. We require a written log is left in the home, with both the friend/family member signing with date/time of each visit, and our sitter does the same. If they do not sign & date for a time they are scheduled to be there, and we cannot reach them or you, we take over the entire service immediately. Your pet(s) and home are priority one, and communication is key to a successful outcome.
What if I need last minute service?
When “life happens”, rely on us to be there for you and your pet(s). Once you are established as a client, we provide same day service, if needed. This is a 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 provide pet taxi service to take your pet wherever they need to go. Your sitter takes your pet(s) to and from their appointment. While 24-hour notice is ideal, in an emergency, we make every effort to accommodate your needs. If you need someone to stay with the pet(s) and get instructions from your vet, your professional pet sitter meets with the vet, obtains a written diagnosis, and picks up any required medications on your behalf.
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 ensures we have control over any unforeseen problems that may arise. There is also a leash law within city limits.
Will my dog be walked in extreme temperatures or weather?
Please discuss with your sitter how best to care for your pets in extreme weather. During the high temperatures in the summer, our walks are 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 do everything possible to ensure your pet(s) get out for a potty break. We resume “regular” walking schedules once the severe weather has passed.
Will you pick up after our pet(s)?
Your sitter picks up after your pet(s) when they are out on their walk. They 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 also, of course, take care of all kitty boxes. If your pet(s) get sick in your home, we clean up after them, in most cases (if special cleaning is required, we contact you for further instructions). If cleaning requires extended time beyond your visit, there is 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?
Keys & Property Access
- Provide two working keys to your sitter when you meet them for the first time. Keeping your keys on file with us ensures that we are ready for future service at a moment’s notice.
- If key(s) must be returned at the end of service, there is a charge for future key pick up or drop off arrangements. We have options if you prefer not to pay a pick up and drop off fee.
- PLEASE TEST ALL NEWLY MADE KEYS TO SEE THAT THEY WORK PROPERLY!
Gated Communities, Concierges & Leasing Offices
- If you live in a gated community, please provide your sitter with a gate code or an access device before the service starts.
- If we must go through a concierge or leasing office for access, please keep in mind that the time we are there takes away from the time spent with your pet(s). This results in additional charges for extra time spent. We are happy to work out the details with you, 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, go to “New Clients” in the menu bar. Follow the online instructions to conveniently schedule your service.
- Email us at pets@pcpsi.com
- Call our office at 214-828-0192.
If you are an existing client, and have already been set up with an account in our online scheduling system, please choose “Client Login” in the menu bar. 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, Discover or ACH for payment. A confirmation email is sent approximately 3-4 days prior to the start of your service, reminding you of the amount due. Your credit card or ACH account is 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! Sitters accept cash or a tip via your credit card. To use your credit card for tipping, add a tip when you initially book your service online or add one to the electronic invoice you receive several days before your service begins. 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.
All reservations – including changes and cancellations – are made directly with the office only. Sitters do not control their schedules.
Are there any extra charges for holiday care?
A $5/visit surcharge is charged on all of the following holidays and days surrounding these holidays:
What is your cancellation policy?
Link to our Terms and Conditions
Cancellation Policy Details
- 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) must made at least one week prior to scheduled service.
- During the holiday period, last-minute cancellations are subject to a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds are given for service during the holiday period after the job has been started.
Overnight and Tuck-In Services
- ALL Overnight and Tuck-In services are subject to a 50% nonrefundable deposit at the time of booking.
- Overnight and Tuck-In service cancellations during a holiday period must be made two weeks prior to avoid a FULL charge for the Overnight or Tuck-In portion of your booking.
- No refunds are given on Overnight or Tuck-In service after the job has been started. All credits given 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?
Contact us if you are not satisfied in any way with your sitter or your service. The office addresses any issues, and rectifies problems.
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 receive $30 towards your next service with us. They must mention your name when they book their service. A credit is posted to your account after their first service is complete. Referral credits must be used within 2 years, and are not redeemable for cash.
If you have a question that we have not answered, give us a call or drop us an email at pets@pcpsi.com.