Frequently asked questions

• Why on-site (home care) instead of boarding?
• How would I find a pet sitter or dog walker?
• What qualifications should I look for and what questions should I ask?
• What does a pet sitter or dog walker need to know about my pet?
• How will I know if the pet sitter or dog walker’s experience level is up to par with the needs of my pet?
• What if my pet suddenly becomes unmanageable?
• What else does a pet sitter or dog walker need to know?
• Is there anything else?
• I’ve gone through the whole process but still don’t feel comfortable
• I wasn’t happy with the service, now what?
• I’m thrilled with the service, what can I do?

Why on-site (home care) instead of boarding?
As Dorothy said “there’s no place like home”, your pet would say that too! On-site care allows a pet to remain in his/her own environment. Unnecessary transport and an environment change can cause extreme stress in pets. The undesirable results may be a stress-related illness or changes in behaviour. A stable environment is especially important for older pets, those that have been rescued from abandonment, neglect and/or abuse and pets with medical conditions or disabilities.

Although there are many good boarding facilities and kennels, many pets under one roof can make it difficult to keep track of individual needs. There is also a higher risk of contagious illnesses.

Kennel Cough in dogs and Upper Respiratory Virus in cats are just two of the common illnesses that affect multi-pet facilities. With many pets in such close contact, it takes only one sick pet to infect others.

During a busy time cages, dog runs and other areas used by pets may not be disinfected and cleaned thoroughly or the subtle hints a pet is ill goes over-looked. A pet owner may unknowingly bring a sick pet for boarding and it’s not realized until too late. The result…your pet may also become sick.

In a boarding facility your pet may not receive personalized affection, attention and care. Feeding instructions may not be adhered to or your pet is given the wrong food. For a pet with food allergies or sensitivities receiving the wrong food can have very negative results.

Boarding in a veterinary clinic is not recommended. Unless your pet requires constant veterinary treatment or monitoring, leaving him/her in a cage surrounded by sick and injured pets is the most stressful of all. Put it this way. It’s akin to you booking a hotel room in a hospital.

Fees for on-site care are competitive with fees for boarding. On-site care also serves to protect and secure your home, inside and out. Most home insurance companies require someone on premises every 24-48 hours. All around, it’s peace of mind for you.

On-site care gives your pet constant access to his/her favourite window, bed, sofa, chair, corner, and blanket….all of his/her delights that makes home…sweet home. Your pet is happy and secure, safe from potential illness, given lots of one-on-one affection and attention and never given the wrong food. Your pet will thank you, thank you, thank you…well….after he/she gets over that you actually had the nerve to leave!

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How would I find a pet sitter or dog walker?
Pet sitters and dog walkers can be found through contacting other pet care professionals such as your veterinarian, groomer or trainer. Some pet supply stores may offer information. Ask friends, co-workers and neighbours. Chances are someone you know (or they know) has used or is using a pet sitter or dog walker. The Yellow Pages and Internet search engines also offer listings for pet sitting and dog walking companies. However, word-of-mouth and professional referrals are always best.

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What qualifications should I look for and what questions should I ask?
Experience, experience, experience. A genuine love for animals, compassion, patience and understanding. Essential for any pet, but more so if your pet is older or has physical or behaviour concerns.

Screen pet sitters/dog walkers carefully. Look for someone with a mature, professional attitude. Ask if:

• Ask if he/she is insured and bonded.
• Ask to see a copy of the insurance certificate.
• Ask if a criminal background check has been completed. These documents contain detailed personal information so don’t be alarmed if it is shown to you with several sections covered. The bottom area of the document contains the information you require.
• Ask for references - even if the referral is through another pet care professional or word-of-mouth.
• Ask if he/she is capable of coping with emergencies, at the very least has taken a first aid course for pets. Even more preferable is someone with hands-on experience in a veterinary clinic.
• Ask if he/she has a reliable vehicle and valid driver’s license. Hire someone who makes you and your pet comfortable and is willing to spend quality time with your pet – not just run in, drop some food and leave. You are paying someone to care for your pet. Hire someone who shows interest in the needs of both you and your pet. Someone willing and able to be in contact with you during your absence; someone who wants to give you peace of mind.
• Ask if he/she has an alternate person who can cover for them in case of illness, injury or other unforeseen circumstances. After all, pet sitters/dog walkers also get sick and injured. A conscientious pet sitter/dog walker will have a “buddy system” relationship with another professional.

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What does a pet sitter or dog walker need to know about my pet?
Everything. Schedule, quirks, likes, dislikes, favourite treats, favourite toys, vaccine history, illness/surgery history….everything.

You will be asked if your pet has ever exhibited adverse behaviour towards strangers or even towards you. Disclose it. Be very forthcoming and don’t “sugar coat” it, regardless of the severity. If your pet can be aggressive, tell the pet sitter/dog walker about the situations and what you believe to be or know to be the “triggers”. The pet sitter/dog walker will be better prepared to care for your pet.

Disclosure may also prevent you from repercussions, legally and/or financially. Some pet sitters/dog walkers have written into their service contracts that areas of concern must be disclosed. His/her safety must also be considered.

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How will I know if the pet sitter or dog walker’s experience level is up to par with the needs of my pet?
A pet sitter/dog walker who does not admit to the lack of skills needed to properly care for your pet is asking for serious consequences. Unfortunately for you and your pet, you may only find this out after the fact.

This is where references are worth their weight in gold. You should be offered a variety of references from clients who have pets requiring different levels of experience and skill. This would be especially important if your pet is elderly or has a medical condition or disability. An honest professional will freely tell you he/she does not have the experience needed and offer to find you someone who does.

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What if my pet suddenly becomes unmanageable?
Although it’s rare, it can happen. Even highly experienced pet sitters/dog walkers encounter challenges unforeseen (or non-disclosed) that cannot be managed alone. These situations are usually related to a pet becoming aggressive or combative.

In this case, a pet sitter/dog walker should contact you and request your assistance if you are available. If you are unavailable, requesting the assistance of either your veterinarian or another pet care professional would be the next responsible choice.

Attempting to manage an aggressive pet alone is irresponsible. It only results in your pet becoming highly stressed and agitated and could result in injury to your pet, the pet sitter/dog walker, or both. Regardless of why your pet has decided to misbehave, you will be responsible for extra costs incurred.

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What else does a pet sitter or dog walker need to know
A professional will ask you for your veterinarian’s information, all your contact information including vacation itinerary, emergency contact information (an alternate person who can make decisions on your behalf for your pet and home) and information about your home (water shut off, gas company etc.).

Some pet sitters/dog walkers will request you sign an agreement allowing him/her to seek veterinary treatment for your pet in case of a life-threatening or critical illness/injury.

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Is there anything else?
Yes. Don’t rush though the screening process. After all, this person will be entering your home and caring for your pet. This is your golden opportunity to meet him/her and consider if you are hiring the right person.

Equally important is that he/she has time to meet and interact with your pet, gather information and discuss questions or concerns you have. Put aside at least one hour for this meeting. Ask all the questions you can think of – except age, rank and serial number – so to speak. A professional should also ask you a lot of questions and write down a detailed account of how to care for your pet and your home.

Don’t sign the service contract until you’ve had time to consider everything. Make sure you are clear on payment, cancellation and refund policies. You and the pet sitter/dog walker have a mutual responsibility to ensure you are both clear on what you and your pet require and what the service policies are. If you have any concerns, discuss them before you sign that contract.

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I’ve gone through the whole process but still don’t feel comfortable
It’s ok. Don’t be afraid to say so. Especially if this is the first time you are hiring a pet sitter/dog walker. A professional will appreciate, respect and address your concerns and help you work through them. If you are still uncomfortable, it’s ok to say you would prefer to explore other options. A professional will offer to help you find a more suitable option.

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I wasn’t happy with the service, now what?
Tell your pet sitter/dog walker. Discuss why you weren’t happy. If an error was made and it is clearly the fault of the pet sitter/dog walker, most professionals will do everything possible to make it right. If your dissatisfaction is a case of mutual error or misunderstanding, you both need to communicate more effectively to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

If the situation is extreme and cannot be rectified, a mutual satisfactory solution should be concluded. Most professionals will also extend a courtesy to help you find someone else.

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I’m thrilled with the service, what can I do?
Tell your pet sitter/dog walker. Offer a letter of reference or a testimonial. Recommend his/her services to other people. Word-of-mouth referrals are the heart of survival for a small business. If you received his/her name from a veterinarian or other pet care professional, call that professional to say how pleased you are.

Telling a veterinarian or pet care professional is invaluable. And, re-hire your pet sitter/dog walker. The ultimate compliment is a repeat client.

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If you have any questions not addressed by the FAQ’s, let us know.
Contact us by phone or email.
Phone: 905.426.2413
Email: info@cozy-critters.com
Please insert “FAQ” in the subject line

Cozy Critters:
	is insured & bonded
	is vet recommended
	has excellent references
	has veterinary technician experience
	has a clean criminal background check
	carries pet first aid kit
	complies with Canada Privacy Act

In general, pet sitting and dog walking is one of the fastest rising small businesses.
Throughout the 1990’s and early 2000’s many pet sitting/dog walking companies have sprung up all over North America.

Most who embark on this venture are conscientious, experienced professionals with a passion for animals. But it’s not easy work.

The hours are long and sometimes unpredictable. Weather conditions can be inclement and there is often the sacrifice of family time and social lives – all acceptable inconveniences for those of us who are serious about, and love what we do.

Unfortunately, there are disreputable individuals who “set up shop” because they view it as an easy way to earn a living. These sorts of pet sitters/dog walkers typically lack commitment, abilities and integrity.

Remember...not only is this person caring for your beloved pet, but he/she is also entering your home. It is truly a case buyer beware!

Our advice? Do the research and the homework. Take the time to screen. Choose your pet sitter/dog walker with care.


A very "cozy critter" in his very favourite spot!