1. What should I tell a pet sitter/dog walker about my pet(s)?

Everything! They need to know your pet's preferences and routines. They need your veterinarian's telephone number. Feeding and exercise schedules are important. If your pet suffers from anxiety or needs to be reassured when you are away, the caregiver should know.

2. What questions should I ask a dog walker/pet sitter?

Here are some good questions:

1. Are you trained in pet first aid?
2. Are you bonded and insured?
3. Do you have any references? Can I speak with these people?
4. Have you had a criminal background check?
5. Do you have a back up plan if you become ill?
6. Do I have to sign a contract?

All of these questions will help to ascertain if the person who you are considering hiring is a professional. Arrange a meeting to determine if there is a good fit. If you or your animal does not feel comfortable, move on. If they are a professional, they will gladly provide you with other resources.

3. If I sign up for dog walking does it have to be on a continuous basis?

No, our services are there for your convenience, so if you do not feel you need them on a regular basis, you can use them on an "as needed" basis. As long as you are signed on as a client, you can call us any time, even last minute and we will do our best to help you. Of course if you are a regular client, with a regular time slot, then your time is booked and you don't have to worry about there being no time available for you or your pet. We will always do our best to fulfill your requests no matter how you sign on.

4. Are your dog walks solo walks or group walks?

When we first begin walking your dog it will be on a one to one basis. If however we find we have more dogs in your area, that are of a compatible nature, we may ask your permission to take them on a group walk. This will help them to have social contact while they are out. Many dogs love to walk in a "pack". At no time will we walk more than 4 dogs together. Group walks will only take place with the consent of ALL owners, and there will be a meeting of all dogs and owners before we begin group walks.

5. If I am a regular client does this mean I can have you "on call"?

Yes it does to a degree. If you have a contract with us, and you have an emergency and need us to help with your pets, you are more than welcome to call us, and provided we are available, we will do our utmost to accommodate you. An example of this would be: you go away for the day, expecting to be home for supper, but are invited to stay for supper. You can call us, and, if we are available, we will gladly look after your pets so you can enjoy your day to the fullest. We will even do a one day pet sit if you want to stay over. This includes weekends and weekdays. Of course it is always best to book in advance.

6. If I hire you for pet sitting, do I need someone else to bring in the mail or water the plants while I'm away?

No. When we come to look after your pets, we will bring in any mail, newspapers, flyers etc, and keep your home in "lived in" shape. We will also alternate lights if you desire. However we cannot do lawn care or snow removal. We will, however, work with you to find someone to do these chores while you are away.

7. How will you store my housekey?

Your key will be stored in a secure environment in my home. It will be locked in a secure place and will be coded. The list of corresponding addresses will be kept in a different location, so if someone does steal your key, they will not know which home it is for. My home also has a security system installed to further ensure the safety of your key.

8. What if there is an emergency with my pet while in your care?

We will first take any measures necessary to insure the health and well being of your pet ... that is our first concern. We will then notify you, or the emergency contact you have left us, of the situation so you can advise us as to what you would like us to do. If the pet's life is in danger, or we cannot reach anyone of our contacts, we will do whatever we feel is in the best interest of the pet, and then contact you. Your pet's health and well being will always be our first concern. Any costs will be paid as stated in the contract between you and Walk This Way Dog Walking & Pet Services.

9. Are dogs the only pets you will pet sit?

No. We will look after most pets. This includes cats, birds (big and small), rabbits, hamsters and most other exotic pets. All animals need care and attention in your absence.

Please keep in mind that all of our services are as flexible as possible, to meet your needs and requirements. Do not hesitate to contact us if you need something that is not listed here, or is out of the ordinary. We will do our utmost to help with all reasonable requests.