FAQ
Frequently asked questions about our Central Florida pet sitting services.
PET SITTING FAQ
We have listed many of our frequently asked questions about our pet sitting and dog walking services in the Lake Mary, Florida area. We’re happy to answer any questions you have that aren’t listed below. If that’s the case, please feel free to contact us.
When should I use Pet Sitting services?
Whether it be a daily visit for walks or extra attention for your pet(s) due to working late or several visits per day while you are on vacation, business trips or during family emergencies, Laura the Pet Nanny Inc. can be there to help with your pets. Here are a few examples of when you might use a pet sitting service:
- Longer hours at work or a long day of entertainment away from your home
- Weekend getaways, vacations or business trips
- Family celebrations or family emergencies
Why should I hire a pet sitter?
There are many reasons why hiring a pet sitter to visit your pets at home is an excellent choice. Your pets will stay where they’re most comfortable, daily routines can be maintained, pets aren’t exposed to illness, and more! For a complete list, see our Benefits of Care.
How many visits do you make per day?
Each client is special and has different requirements. Typically, dogs schedule three to four visits per day and those with cats request one to two visits daily. This can be customized or changed as necessary to meet the needs of your pet(s) and your schedule. Laura the Pet Nanny Inc. is happy to accommodate special requirements that are time sensitive as much as possible.
I have a cat that doesn’t require much attention. Will you visit every other day?
No. Any veterinarian will tell you that feline health problems can advance rapidly and may become terminal in 24 hours, even with pets that are in good health. It’s not uncommon for a cat to shut itself into a room or to get stuck in the window blinds or to accidently knock over a water bowl. Additionally, coming every other day increases the opportunity for little problems (such as a broken pipe or gas leak) to become catastrophic.
Can my pet(s) come to your home?
No. Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. looks after your pet(s) in their own home where they will feel secure. Our home is not zoned for commercial boarding and our insurance does not include care in our home. In case of emergency, Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. will take them to your veterinarian or boarding service specified in advance until your return or alternate arrangements are made.
What kind of pet(s) do you care for?
Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. specializes in care for dogs and cats; however, we will offer individualized care for your other pets in your family, including birds, fish, hamsters etc. Please call Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. at 407-617-3990 for more information.
Will you provide updates on how my pet is doing while I am away?
Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. provides a daily report of what occurs in your home when you are away. You’ll be notified of any strange behavior or unusual eating habits. We provide an email journal with a checklist, detailed update and pictures of how each visit went. If you prefer to receive texts on your phone, we are more than happy to send the updates that way as well. Likewise, if you would like updates by phone, we can arrange that with you on an individual basis.
Why not just have a friend, relative or neighbor to take care of my pet(s)?
For many people, a trusted neighbor, friend, or relative that is familiar with your home and pet(s) may work just fine. However, your friends/family may have a change in plans and be unable to look after your pet(s), besides this can sometimes be burden on friends and family and can sometimes strain your relationship with these people over time. Hiring a pet sitter can bring peace of mind in knowing that your pet is being cared for by an experienced professional.
I have a family member that lives close by and will also visit. Is that okay?
Many people like to include neighbors, friends, and relatives in pet sitting duties. These well-intentioned actions often create confusion during a shared responsibility sitting assignment. Common problems are over-feeding, unsecured doors, lost keys, or skipped feedings. Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. cannot be responsible for a sitting assignment where others are going to share the work. If anyone other than Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. has access to your home during our scheduled dates of service, we must be notified in advance and Laura the Pet Nanny Inc. will not be liable for any damages or lost items. Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. suggests that anyone considering a split of duties make only one person responsible for the entire time you are away.
What happens if my pet becomes ill while I’m gone?
Laura the Pet Nanny Inc. will always observe pets for signs of irregularity or illness. At the initial consultation visit and within your client profile, we will ask for your veterinarian information. In an emergency situation, your pet will be taken to your veterinarian immediately. Otherwise, we will call you first. If your veterinarian is closed, your pet will be transported to a 24 hour emergency animal hospital. We highly recommend that you let your vet know we will be taking care of your pets and to let them know you the dates you will be away.
My pet(s) isn’t very social, will you care for it?
All pet(s) must be people friendly. The initial consultation will be our time to get to know your pet(s). For our safety, any pet(s) that appears to be overly territorial, anxious or aggressive toward people, will not be a match for Laura the Pet Nanny Inc. services.
What if there is a delay in our return from vacation?
Laura the Pet Nanny’s policy is to continue service until the client calls to inform us of their return home. We pay close attention to travel information and weather forecasts to anticipate such events. It is worthwhile to phone us as soon as you’re able to in these situations.
Is there a fee for key/lockbox pickup?
There is no charge for the first service; however if you elect for Laura the Pet Nanny Inc. to pick up and return your key each time, there is a $20.00 charge. If you leave your key with LTPN it will be coded and kept in a locked box. Your name/address will not be on the key. If you return a lockbox and decide to lease it again, a charge will apply if we are required to drop it off and/or pick it up.
What is the preferred form of payment?
Payment is due on or before the start of service. Preferred forms of payment are Credit/Debit card, check or cash. Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. will add a $35 fee for returned checks.
How do we get started?
The first step is to call Laura the Pet Nanny, Inc. or fill out an online form. From there we to set up a FREE consultation. Consultations will be at a convenient time for you, including nights and weekends. This will give us time to meet you and your pet(s) in order to establish the plan of care we can provide for your family.