Frequently Asked Questions 

We, as professional pet experts, set ourselves apart from these applications. It is our firm stance to dissuade any association with Wag! and Rover. We strongly caution against utilizing their services and engaging with individuals for pet care needs. These corporations place profit margins above the standards of excellence required in the pet care sector. Although capable staff may be present within their ranks, inexperienced persons frequently handle pet-related tasks, resulting in potential dangers such as unexplained fatalities, missing or stolen pets, and unreliable service quality. Notable occurrences include a Rover contractor absconding with a customer's dog in Santa Monica for six days and Wag! dog walkers negligently losing four dogs within a single month in New York.

At PAWsome, we are committed to ensuring consistent, high-quality service, addressing concerns promptly, and hiring pet enthusiasts who possess the necessary certifications, insurance coverage, and bonding for the client's tranquility. Our team is well-equipped and well-trained to provide responsible care for your beloved pets, unlike the numerous inexperienced workers affiliated with Wag! and Rover or those treating pet care as a casual hobby.

Furthermore, the contractual agreements of these platforms often absolve them of any liability arising from the actions of inadequately supervised contractors. Conversely, we afford comprehensive insurance protection to safeguard all our clients, their homes and their pets.

Absolutely! We strive to support whatever training methodology and routines your pets are accustomed to. To that end, we will follow all the training protocols you outline for us on walks. Want Buster to stop at the corner before crossing? No problem. Should Mollie sit before getting a treat? A-OK. Do you need us to avoid other dog-on-leash interactions? Sure thing! We’re happy to customize your dog care to their individual needs. You can share this information a few ways: by updating your pet profile on the portal, showing / telling us at your initial meet & greet, or by uploading training documentation to your account. Please note: our dog sitters use positive reinforcement methods (food, treat, distraction, clicker, create training, etc.).

Every pet sitting and dog walking session booked with our team is scheduled within a flexible two-hour time frame, carefully set up to accommodate a variety of potential factors that could impact our timeliness. These factors include but are not limited to traffic congestion, unexpected client requests, possible delays, pet-related issues, unforeseen emergencies, and any other unplanned events that may occur during our daily tasks.

Therefore, if your appointment with Walkies is arranged for noon, rest assured that our dedicated team will arrive at your location sometime between 11am and 1pm. We do not provide precise arrival times as we find it impractical and can lead to unrealistic expectations. However, it is important to note that we prioritize narrower time windows for the care of elderly pets or animals with specific medical requirements, such as diabetic pets needing timely insulin administration.

What makes us stand out? Our focus is clear - we place client satisfaction and pet safety as our top priority. Recognizing that each pet is special, with their unique needs and preferences, we take a flexible approach, customizing our services to match you and your beloved pet seamlessly. Whether it's a tiny teacup Chihuahua or a magnificent Great Dane, we have the knowledge to provide them with the care they need.

Our team understands that your beloved pet is an integral part of your family, not just a companion. We provide comprehensive care, from regular walks and playtime to specialized diets and medical attention, ensuring your pet's well-being.

Regardless of their size, breed, or temperament, our commitment is to cater to your pet's individual requirements, ensuring they receive constant care and affection. Whether your dog displays minor aggression or behavioral complexities, we prioritize listening and assessing the situation before determining the best course of action. In contrast to some pet care services that may decline pets demonstrating even mild aggression or behavioral issues, we approach each case with an open-minded perspective. While certain businesses may reject specific breeds based on stereotypes or perceived temperaments, or promptly turn away clients with pets exhibiting aggression, we believe in the potential for any pet to receive care and rehabilitation through dedicated caregivers, patience, and consistent efforts.

The initial consultation is provided at no cost to you as a gesture of goodwill, with subsequent consultations necessitating a payment of $20.00 to be settled in advance. It is important to note that this sum will serve as a credit towards any forthcoming services should you choose to confirm an appointment within the ensuing three months. Nevertheless, if you decide not to proceed with our offerings during this timeframe, the fee will not be reimbursed.

It is essential to mention an exemption from this charge if you have already finalized a service and submitted a payment before the initial discussion; under such circumstances, the fee for the initial meeting will be entirely exempted for you.

Yes, we carry 'employee dishonesty coverage', which is synonymous with being bonded. We are fully insured and bonded to offer our clients peace of mind, as we aim to be a dependable pet care provider. It's crucial to emphasize that insurance and liability coverage are the primary measures for ensuring the safety and protection of your pets and property.

Bonding specifically applies to only cases of theft from a client's home, and is contingent upon the perpetrator being convicted of the crime, a process which can take years and is not a reliable means of safeguarding your pets or your property for that matter. We take extensive measures to ensure your pet's security, including thorough screening and background checks on all our sitters. It is important to consider that bonding is often unnecessary for smaller pet sitting businesses, such as an LLC or DBA, with a staff of fewer than 5 employees. We currently employ 4.

Yes, our goal is to book (1) primary sitter and (1) backup sitter in the event of an emergency or unforeseen event. We understand that circumstances may require substitute sitters, and to ensure uninterrupted and seamless service, we always have a backup sitter on standby.

However, we believe in the importance of providing (1) consistent pet sitter throughout your pet's service, particularly for overnight visits, walks and drop-in visits. This allows your pets to establish a rapport and bond with our sitter, which may be disrupted by rotating different people multiple times throughout your service, and essentially exposing them to a stranger each time. Moreover, introducing your pets to unfamiliar people can cause unwarranted anxiety, creating an uncomfortable and potentially hazardous situation for both your pets and the sitter. Therefore, we guarantee that once a sitter is assigned to a clients pet, they will remain with them until the end of the stay. Please rest assured that your pet's comfort and safety are our top priority, along with your peace of mind.

Any cancellations made without proper notice will result in the full charge of pet services for all scheduled visits. Please be advised that we do not provide refunds, rather credits that can be applied towards future services.

We kindly request that cancellations be made at least (5) days before non-holiday trips and (8) days before holiday trips. Holidays are our busiest times and we are often booked months in advance. We turn down more clients than we can service during major holidays.

Failure to do so and canceling within (4) days of a non-holiday trip or (7) days of a holiday trip will incur a 50% charge of the initial service cost that will be invoiced to you. This policy excludes any one-time visit services like dog walks, daily activities, excursion trips, etc. only if our team member has not arrived at your residence or is not already en route. If they have arrived or are on their way you will be responsible for the initial cost of the booked service.

Yes. We presently provide both all-day sitting and overnight services, which can be carried out in your residence. Additionally, we offer live-in daytime care, where we remain in the comfort of your own home, supervising your pet throughout the entire time. The majority of pet care businesses do not provide continuous live-in daytime care or overnight services, as most pet sitters have other animals to attend to with daytime walks and pet sitting, and they prefer to stay in the comfort of their own homes or are unwilling to dedicate the time required for a complete 24-hour visit due to cost considerations. Nevertheless, we are more than willing to offer overnight services, during which we stay with your pets throughout the day or night, delivering care and attention for a full 24-hour period.

Our pet sitting services have garnered significant positive feedback from pet owners, particularly our dog walking and in-home visitation services.

However, we offer an array of other services that cater to pets of various types and temperaments including adventure hikes, comprehensive pet care, enrichment visits, overnight stays, pet transportation, doggy daycare, supply delivery, wedding assistance, pet waste removal, hourly pet sitting, deluxe spa pampering, and more.

Additionally, we're more than willing to tailor any of our services to suit your pet's specific needs. Our goal is to provide customized solutions that ensure both pets and their owners are contented, making us your ultimate destination for all things pet-related.

It’s crucial to consider the well-being of your pets, especially when unforeseen circumstances arise. While entrusting a friend or neighbor to care for your pets may seem like a convenient option, it’s important to take into account various factors. By opting for our professional pet care services, you can alleviate the burden on your friends and their already busy schedules. Moreover, in the unfortunate event of an emergency impacting your trusted friend, there’s a possibility that your pet might be left without adequate care. With our dedicated services, you can have peace of mind knowing that we are always prepared to step in and continue providing quality care for your pets, even in unexpected situations or if you experience unavoidable delays. Your pets’ well-being and safety are our top priorities, and we are committed to ensuring they receive the attention and care they deserve, regardless of the circumstances.

Please see our 'prices' page for the cost on our most popular pet sitting and dog walking services.

If a price is not listed for a service you are interested in, please inform us and we will happily provide you with a price for that service or a detailed estimate free of charge. 

Safety is our top priority, and prevention is a key protocol to ensure dogs' safety while out on city streets. We are certified in disaster planning and have a well-established plan in place.

It is highly recommended that all dogs have two pieces of walking equipment, such as a collar and a harness, for hikes or walks. This setup enables our team to use mandatory safety equipment, including locking carabiner clips that connect the two pieces of walking gear, providing a secondary attachment. This guarantees that we stay connected to your dog even if they slip out of one piece of equipment. Before taking any dogs outside, our team members always securely fasten and check the walking equipment. We do not use retractable leashes.

During walking and sitting services, we also provide your dogs with ByteTags in case they become loose or leave our care. These tags help us locate your pet by providing their real-time GPS location when the QR code on the tag is scanned by the person who finds them.

We kindly request that you refrain from soliciting pet sitting or dog walking services from the sitters of PAWsome Companions outside of the established business relationship.

Please do not place the sitters in the uncomfortable position of offering them pet sitting or dog walking work apart from PAWsome Companions. You are sometimes given the private cell phone of the sitters as a means to reach them in an emergency while you are away. We ask that you do not contact them to set up future sits when you return. The sitters are prohibited from soliciting or accepting work directly from clients and they sign an agreement to this effect.

Sitters are contractually prohibited from seeking or accepting work from clients independently, as outlined in their agreement. Your adherence to this policy is greatly appreciated, and thank you for respecting this policy.

All of our walks are private, 1-on-1 walks. However, we do specialize in semi-private walks that we call “small pack” walks. If your dog is dog-friendly and has all of their shots, we might include them in a small group walk on pet the client’s request. Unless specified or requested, your dog will be walked alone or only with the other dogs you have in your household. We do not charge a “private walk” fee for puppies under 12 weeks old or who do not have all their shots yet.

We will handle this scenario on a case-by-case basis. In these instances, we will opt for a phone call or a virtual meet & greet as opposed to an in-person meeting. This allows us to effectively address individual needs and tailor our approach for your pets accordingly. By utilizing these alternative methods of communication, we can ensure that each situation with your furry loved one is handled with care and attention.

Absolutely not! We do not discriminate against any breed. We believe all our clients’ pets are self-expressed individuals and we welcome any and all breeds!

It's essential for us to emphasize that our approach is rooted in inclusivity and respect for the diversity of all pets. We firmly uphold the belief that every furry companion, regardless of its breed, is a unique individual with its own characteristics and charms. Our commitment to providing a welcoming and open environment for all breeds stems from our dedication to embracing the wonderful array of pet personalities that enrich our lives. This philosophy underscores our unwavering support for the acceptance and celebration of all breeds, and mirrors our deep commitment to creating a warm and nurturing space for all pets and their dedicated owners.

Yes, you must approve and electronically sign our online pet sitting agreement before a meet & greet is scheduled and before services start.

After you log into your Walkies account for the first time, you will need to read over and approve/sign our pet sitting agreement to fully activate your personal account. Please read over the entire agreement as it has very important information as to how we run our professional pet sitting business.

You can always view your signed pet sitting agreement in your Walkies journal. You can even view the date and time you originally signed it. If you have trouble please let us know and we will be more than happy to show you or send you a copy.

No, they are not mandatory because we do provide last minute bookings, however, they are highly suggested. We take a look at everything we will be responsible for. Our sitters go through a checklist that gives us information on your furry babies and their routine. Ensuring that we have all the necessary details allows us to provide the best care for your pets. From their feeding schedule to their favorite toys, having this information helps us create a comfortable and familiar environment for your furry friends while you're away. This personalized approach enables us to tailor our service to meet the specific needs of each pet, giving you peace of mind knowing that they are in good hands.

Please see our Testimonials page and our Google page for reviews. We will happily provide personal references from prospective clients upon request.

Yes, we do! Our app, Walkies, allows clients to manage their accounts conveniently from their smartphones. If you are a client of PAWsome Companions and have not yet downloaded our app and connected to your Walkies journal, you can do so here for iPhone & iPad users.

The walk officially commences as soon as we step outside your apartment door! If your furry friend is sensitive and may need extra time to adjust to the walker, our Pet Pros are instructed to start the timer after spending 5 minutes in your home. This is to keep you informed and ensure they are on schedule. When we need to drive to a walking spot like a trail or canyon for hikes, the travel time is not subtracted from your walk. We aim to keep our service area within a 10-mile radius. For hikes, we inform our clients that we include an extra 15 minutes for travel at no additional cost, guaranteeing your dog receives their full walk or hike time.

Yes, the ‘Primary Walker’ serves as the central contact person for your dog’s walks under normal circumstances, except in cases of emergencies or health issues. Your canine companion is selectively matched with a consistent walker to foster a deep connection and address their individual requirements.

Although we prioritize the Primary Walker, our team is prepared to provide assistance as necessary. Should the Primary Walker be unavailable, the Backup Walker will seamlessly continue your dog’s routine. By restricting your dog’s interaction to only two walkers, we aim to ensure consistency and enable them to develop a comfortable rapport and special bond with our staff.

On a case-by-case basis, we can board your dog(s). Some of our exceptional Pet Sitters graciously open their homes to provide pet sitting for clients whose homes are not available. However, we firmly believe that staying in the owner's home is the preferred form of "boarding" for most dogs. Boarding facilities or businesses that operate from their own homes can be a suitable option for independent dogs who do not require human companionship at night or much attention throughout the day. Our experience has shown that dogs accustomed to sleeping with their humans can become disoriented and anxious in a completely new environment with unfamiliar people, which can create separation anxiety. This is particularly true if the boarding facility confines them in a crate or a cage at night.

Yes, and we have specialized insurance covering both your pets and your property. Our insurance is specific to pet sitting, dog walking, daycare and your property (broadened property coverage) while pet sitting. We also have veterinary reimbursement coverage up to $2,000 (so we don’t have to wait for you to pay the bill in the event of an emergency) and lost key coverage in the event your key is misplaced or we are locked out (although we’ve never used it). You should always select a pet sitter who is insured. It is important that their coverage includes care, custody, and control of the pet.

The appropriate schedule depends on what best suits you and your pet's routine. Our operating hours are from 5:00am to 11:00, 365 days a year. We offer appointment windows during which we will visit your home within a specific time frame. These time frames are in 2-hour increments. For example, early AM arrival is between 5:00-7:00am, morning is 7:00-9:00am, etc. When scheduling your service through our app, you will be able to choose the time block best to you. 

For last minute bookings, we typically we ask for a 1-2 hour window when scheduling visits. We will give preference on narrow time frames for puppies, geriatrics, and those needing medication at specified times. We will also make exceptions for exact arrival times, however, that is dependent on how busy we are, the service location and the number of sitters available.

We are completely dedicated to ensuring the well-being of your cherished pets. With great enthusiasm, we introduce our exceptional pet care app, Walkies! Picture being able to witness all the visits with your furry friends in real time, accompanied by delightful pictures, captivating mini videos, and detailed notes. You'll receive a comprehensive account of the top-notch services we provided to your pet during our visit; our walks are meticulously tracked using live GPS technology. Furthermore, you can directly message us, and we'll promptly provide you with the visit update report card, delivering the reassurance and peace of mind you deserve. During each visit, we send three or more pictures and two videos, but if you desire even more frequent updates, please don't hesitate to inform us. We firmly believe that open communication is essential, and we are committed to keeping you fully informed every step of the way. By receiving our picture message updates, you can rest assured that your pets are well cared for, and you'll always be in the loop about your sitter's timely completion of visits. Let's not overlook the fact that our cutting-edge pet care platform grants you real-time access to all the vital information you need. Lastly, should you have any questions or concerns, remember that we offer unlimited phone support while your pets are in our care. Feel free to reach out to us at any time – your peace of mind is our top priority!

We always keep a few open slots in our schedule in the situation that your trip runs long or you would just like to add an extra day to your vacation. We understand that life isn’t always predictable. Flights get delayed, trains get missed, and drives take longer than we initially planned. If you are unable to get back home in time to give your pet the care it needs, just let us know. We’ll make sure your pet is safe, happy, and healthy whenever you’re able to make it back. There are no last-minute late or booking fees if you extend your trip.

Providing ample notice for scheduled visits is crucial to ensure that we are fully prepared to deliver the best possible service. Although we typically require 12-24 hours of notice for visits, we understand that life can be unpredictable, and last-minute bookings cannot always be avoided. If a sitter or walker has already arrived at your home, you will be charged the full amount of the original booking service, as resources such as time and fuel were utilized. However, we do not charge any last-minute booking fees for services booked two hours before the scheduled visit. In the event of a tentative booking, if you cancel with at least 4 hours of notice, there will be no penalty. We recognize that emergencies can arise, and we are always willing to work with you to find the best possible solution. Our goal is to create a positive and rewarding experience for every pet parent!

We never tack on extra fees, not even for holidays! Actually, that's when our clients need us most, so we love running promos during those times. And guess what? We don't make our clients pay for travel distances either. Our service area covers a 50-mile radius from Simi Valley, and we even make exceptions for areas beyond that.

If you're interested in making a reservation, you can start by contacting us at (805) 206-0349 via email or text. We'd love to hear about the dates you have in mind, the services you're looking for, and get to know a bit about your beloved pet. Following that, we can schedule a quick 5-minute chat over the phone or through video to discuss your pet's specific needs. Should you choose to move forward after our conversation, we can plan a meet-and-greet for you to meet our team member and your pet. To confirm your reservation, we kindly ask for a 50% non-refundable deposit upfront, with the remaining 50% to be paid at the start of our services.

We prioritize security as our utmost concern, which is why we maintain comprehensive insurance coverage to protect against any potential damages that may occur during our services. Our property coverage not only safeguards your property, but also extends to covering your pets while they are in our care, custody and control. In case your pet needs veterinary attention, rest assured that our veterinary reimbursement coverage can cover costs up to $2,000 while you're away. Our staff members take pride in their exceptional caliber, undergoing thorough screening and background checks prior to joining our team. We guarantee the confidentiality of your personal information, and your keys will never be labeled with your name or address. Our sitters consistently ensure the security of your home by carefully locking up and double-checking all security measures before they leave. They are proficient in handling alarm systems and will ensure that your house alarm is activated. Furthermore, we implement crime-deterring measures such as rotating lights, turning on porch lights, bringing in your newspaper or packages, and adjusting blinds to further enhance the safety and security of your home.

Yes, our entire team is certified and trained in both Pet First Aid and CPR through the Red Cross and PetTech.

To begin with, we will always keep you informed about any behavioral issues we notice in your pets and explain our plan for addressing them, using only positive reinforcement. It is important to emphasize that we would never resort to physically punishing a pet. 

Our commitment is unwavering when it comes to accommodating your preferred training methods, as long as they align with our fundamental values of compassion and optimism, following a 'fear free' philosophy. You can trust that we will never employ methods that could be seen as unkind or severe. Our primary focus is on utilizing gentle and positive training techniques that inspire and encourage. We firmly oppose any physical discipline, pulling on leashes, or raising our voices to your pet. If any behavioral issues arise, we are open to having a conversation with you and collaborating on a solution. Our approach to interacting with all pets revolves around establishing a secure, caring, and anxiety-free atmosphere.

You can read all about our Fear Free practices here.

This is dependent upon the type and severity of the emergency. If an emergency occurs after normal or even extended veterinary hours, we will take your pet to the nearest 24-hour emergency vet. All emergency VCA facilities allow the immediate transport of your pet to their facility with no appointment needed.

Of course, we are absolutely thrilled to offer our assistance! We take immense pride in hiring exceptional individuals who possess a deep understanding and love for all types of pets, especially those in their senior years. It is our top priority to handle dogs with health concerns with the utmost care and sensitivity, always respecting their pace. We remain vigilant in monitoring any changes in a pet’s health, and rest assured, we will promptly inform you of any concerning observations.

We bring a wealth of experience, both professionally and personally, spanning a wide range of animal care. Our professional background encompasses a decade of expertise with a Bachelor's degree in Healthcare/Business Management, specializing in Pet Sitting and Dog Walking services. Additionally, we are committed volunteers at local shelters, assisting dogs with varying behavioral challenges, offering individual care, training, and matching them with loving families. On a personal level, we have 25 years of experience nurturing and caring for various pets, ensuring they receive the utmost care and affection.

Our passion for animals has driven us to continuously expand our knowledge and skills in animal care. We stay updated on the latest techniques and best practices to ensure the well-being of every furry friend we encounter. Our commitment to providing top-notch care extends beyond just the physical needs of animals; we also prioritize their emotional and mental well-being. We believe that every animal deserves to feel safe, loved, and understood. Through our years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of different animal behaviors and personalities, allowing us to tailor our care to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether it's a high-energy pup in need of a long walk or a shy cat requiring gentle reassurance, we approach every interaction with patience, empathy, and a genuine love for all creatures great and small. Our ultimate goal is to create a harmonious and loving environment where animals can thrive and feel like an essential part of our extended family.

We take great pride in the relationships we build with both the animals in our care and their human companions, fostering a sense of trust and reliability that sets us apart in the world of animal care.

A professional pet sitter is certified and possesses a high level of knowledge and training in animal behavior. Our team has extensive experience working with a variety of animals and has a deep understanding of the appropriate methods for handling dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and other pets, including attending to their health and medical needs. We maintain insurance, bonding, and certification, providing assurance that your pets will receive the utmost care while you are away. You can trust that your pets will not be neglected under our watch. Our team is characterized by punctuality, reliability, honesty, compassion, experience, and expertise. Additionally, our pet professionals undergo thorough background checks and are committed to consistently delivering top-quality services to you and your beloved pets. Ensuring the complete satisfaction of our clients during every visit is our top priority.

There are a multitude of advantages to opting for in-home care services for pets. Rather than subjecting them to the potentially stressful environment of a kennel, many animals find comfort and security in the familiarity of their own home. This personalized approach ensures that pets receive individual attention and can stick to their usual routines, leading to a more relaxed and contented experience for both the animals and their owners. In-home care allows for a seamless transition for pets, maintaining their sense of stability, daily routine, surroundings and well-being while their owners are away.

When you initiate the service, you will meet 1-2 of our team members who will serve as your main pet sitters or dog walkers. Our top priority is the safety and protection of our clients, their pets, and their belongings. Before commencing, we thoroughly vet each sitter to ensure quality service. Our staff are committed employees, not freelancers, working collaboratively as a team to provide consistent and excellent care to clients. Apart from extensive interviews, background checks, and references, we invest significant time and resources in training our staff members.

Yes, we are certified and affiliated with the following organizations:

• Pet Sitters International (PSI)
• Professional United Pet Sitters (PUPS)
• Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
• Pet Sitter Associates (PSA)
• Pet Care Insurance (PCI)
• PetTech
• Fear Free Professional 
• ProPet Hero

There are no refunds if you return home early from a trip and are receiving drop-in visits or overnight pet sitting services. However, if you have extenuating circumstances we are happy to discuss it.

Yes. We can administer oral, topical, ophthalmic, otic, injectable medications (insulin for diabetics), as well as subcutaneous fluids. And no, we do not charge extra to give your pet their medication! It is included in the rate for the visit.

Regrettably, we are unable to allow outdoor access for your cats for safety reasons. During our visits, all cats are kept indoors to ensure their well-being. If there is a strong preference for your cat to have access both indoors and outdoors while we are not present, we cannot assure the cat's safe return. In such cases, we will not be responsible if the cat does not come back or returns with any injuries or health concerns.

Absolutely they are! We LOVE to walk dogs! It gives us and them a really good workout. However, please note that we will not walk dogs when temperatures are below 50 degrees or exeed 88 degrees. Many local vets will counsel you to walk your beloved in the early morning before the sidewalks have had time to heat up or in the evenings, at dusk, when the sun has set and it’s starting to cool down. And we start our dog walks as early as 5am!

We have a team that includes part-time staff and backup sitters. Nevertheless, it's essential to mention that we only rely on backup sitters in case of emergencies. We aim to assign one sitter to your pets to foster and strengthen the bond between them.

Our team is dedicated to providing the best care possible for your beloved pets. Each member, whether part-time or a backup sitter, is trained and passionate about nurturing a positive relationship with your furry friends. We understand the importance of consistency and strive to ensure that your pets have a familiar face looking after them whenever you need our services. By assigning one sitter to your pets whenever possible, we aim to create a sense of trust and comfort between your pets and our team. This approach allows us to not only meet their basic needs but also to build a strong bond based on familiarity and routine. Your pets' happiness and well-being are our top priority, and we are committed to providing them with the love and attention they deserve.

Yes, we do. In fact, we are very sensitive about the topic of overheating. We never take dogs for long walks if the temperature rises above 88 degrees, only very short 5-15 minute walks/potty breaks. If it is above 90 degrees, we don't take dogs at all, rather we stay inside and provide enrichment activities or lots of companionship. 

Dogs, especially short-muzzled ones, are prone to overheating and heat stroke in a very short period of time being outside. Heat stroke can be fatal. The only way for a dog to sweat is through panting with an open mouth, however on very hot days, just panting is not enough to cool sufficiently. Additionally, the dog's fur coat makes it much more difficult to cool through panting on hot days. We care greatly about our furry clients and want them to be healthy, safe, and live long lives. We try to find the best alternative to entertain and exercise the dogs on extreme weather days. Car rides and playtimes inside the house are great temporary substitutions for hot days.

We provide drop-in pet sitting visits in various durations including 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60-minute visits. Additionally, we offer extended hourly pet sitting visits up to a maximum of 3 hours, beyond which the service transitions to doggy daycare.

In the case of caring for clients' dogs while their family is absent, we mandate a minimum of two pet sitting visits per day to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals. It is imperative that dogs are not left unattended or without a break for more than 12-hours. Conversely, when attending to clients' cats in similar circumstances, we require at least one visit per day to ensure their care and comfort.

If you know the days you will need walks or pet sitting services, please let us know a day or two in advance if you can. However, we understand that things come up and you may need a walk at the last minute, and we can cover that, too. It is best if you can give us at least 48 hours notice so we can coordinate with your sitter or walker and get you set up. We can sometimes accommodate same-day requests, but it is best to book in advance. This is especially the case during our busiest times (holidays and weekends), when we may run short on availability.

Our pet sitters use our Walkies app on their smartphones that GPS timestamps their arrival and departure time. Our clients also have access to our app directly. If you request a dog walk you can see where your dog has walked as well. All this information will be updated automatically once the visit is complete. The digital report card will also include what potty business was done, a checklist of requests, photos of your pet and a personal note from the sitter. We are committed to that promise and this leaves you with no mystery as to what your furry friend received at each visit.

We offer pet sitting visits and dog walks starting at 5:00am and as late as 11:00pm, every day of the week.

Our office hours are from 4:30am to 11:30pm.

While your pets are in our care, you have unlimited, 24/7, phone support.

A 50% deposit must be paid before each service, no later than 48 hours prior. This means that we need half of the payment at least two days before the service starts (your departure date), and the remaining balance is to be settled either on the first day of service or upon your return, based on the specific service booked. Failure to provide the 50% deposit will result in your pet sitting service being deemed unconfirmed.

For overnight stays and drop-in visits exceeding a week, full payment is required. There is a 24-hour window for settling the remaining balance after your services begin. However, the outstanding amount must be paid within 24 hours after the service has commenced, or else a late fee of $7.00 per day may be applied depending on the circumstances.

No. Our policy is to always keep your furry companions on their leashes while on walks, field trips, or excursions. This rule is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of your beloved dogs. By keeping them on their leashes, we can prevent any potential accidents or incidents that may occur if they were to roam freely. Rest assured that we prioritize the safety of your pets above all else and adhere to this policy strictly. Thank you for entrusting us with your precious dogs and for understanding the importance of keeping them leashed during our outings.

We have an entire page dedicated to scheduling cat visits.

If all you need is a quick check-in visit, then the 20-minute visit is the ultimate choice. Our team will make sure the litter box is spotless, whip up a delicious meal, and give you a full update on your precious pet. Shorter visits are perfect for cats who may be anxious or hostile towards strangers. It's crucial to reduce stress in these situations, which is why our efficient in-and-out approach is highly recommended. if you have cats who require more attention and you want them to get affection and companionship, then the 45-minute visit is the best choice. Regardless, we require at least one drop-in visit per day for cats.

By customizing the number of visits to fit your cat's feeding schedule or medication requirements, we guarantee they will receive the utmost care and attention they deserve. Rest assured, your beloved feline companion will be in good hands with us.

All pet sitting visits/services include feeding, water changes, trash disposal, pet mess cleanup, playtime, brushes, medication administration, cuddles, enrichment, walks, waste pick up, kitty litter scooping, watering of your indoor/outdoor plants, bringing in your mail/newspapers/packages, taking your trash bins to curb on trash day, cleaning of pet food dishes and any other tasks you need. 

We have been operating since 2017, and became an official LLC in 2023.

Always!

We understand life happens. Flights get delayed, work meetings run long, family issues occur, kids have problems, plans change, etc. Many things can cause your pets to be in need unexpectedly. We will always make every effort to accommodate your emergency pet care needs. Last minute scheduling may not be available at the exact time your pet needs services, we will be there as soon as we can and are happy to clean up any messes that may have occurred as a result of their wait.

Lockboxes and keyless entries provide a simple way to ensure consistent care regardless of unforeseen circumstances. The COVID pandemic has emphasized the importance of being prepared for any situation.

In the event that your main pet sitters or walkers are unable to fulfill their duties due to an accident or illness, we can seamlessly step in without any disruption to the service. By using lock boxes, clients retain control of keys. Although it is advisable to have an emergency key on hand for pet sittings, as a precaution. This measure ensures that your pets are not left stranded, even if the lock box is unavailable. We offer lockboxes at an affordable price!

All of our clients keys are stored in personal lockboxes using a unique set of characters that only your pet sitter can decipher! Consequently, in the event of a keychain mishap resulting in your key being lost somewhere, its destination remains a mystery. Safeguarding our clients' residences and confidential details is a matter of utmost importance to us. Whenever keys are not in active use, they are securely stored in a designated location being your lockbox which you can keep safely and securely on your property.

At PAWsome Companions, we prioritize the privacy and security of our clients and sitters. We want to assure you that any personal information you share with us, such as mailing addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses, will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Rest assured that this information will only be used for the sole purpose of ensuring the proper care of your beloved pets and homes while you are away. Your trust is important to us, and we are committed to upholding the highest standards of privacy protection in all our interactions.

We usually walk a maximum of 2-3 dogs from the same family simultaneously. This is mostly a safety and attention issue. If you have more than 3 dogs, we suggest dividing the scheduled time to ensure the safety of your dogs and our walker, and to ensure each pet receives the care and attention they need. Our policy is not to bring our own dogs or mix dogs from different families.

PLEASE let us know!

We kindly request that you inform us of your preferences. You are encouraged to contact us in order to inquire about the well-being of your pets and to request additional photos or videos, all of which will be provided to you at no additional cost. Communication is highly valued by our team, and we are committed to offering updates in accordance with your preferences. Moreover, please be reminded that clients utilizing our pet care platform, Walkies, have the convenience of accessing drop-in visit or walk information through the corresponding mobile application. While text message updates may be sporadic due to busy schedules, rest assured that consistent updates will be available to you through the Walkies platform.

We are currently insured and bonded through Pet Care Insurance (PCI) and also through our membership with Pet Sitter Associates (PSA). 

You can view our insurance card with PCI and our membership certificate with PSA on our certifications page.

Whenever feasible, we strive to prevent our clients' dogs from interacting with other dogs. In the event of a dog altercation, our foremost priority is to safely intervene and separate the animals. Intervening directly in a dog fight is discouraged due to the risk of injury. Therefore, we utilize objects to create distance between the dogs or divert the attention of the aggressor in situations where one dog is predominantly involved. The process of diffusing a dog fight warrants a detailed discussion in its own right. Fortunately, conflicts between dogs are rare occurrences for us. Typically, following the initial steps helps us circumvent any issues. Should a problem arise, we are well-prepared and equipped to handle it effectively. Each walker is equipped and wears a belt which contains items necessary for the dog walk such as poop bags, a training clicker, a portable water bowl, a whistle, and a citronella spray that is used to deter an aggressive dog or break up a potential dog fight. 

We have en entire page dedicated to the scheduling of dog visits.

Ensure your dog receives the care and attention it deserves by scheduling a minimum of 30 minutes for each pet sitting visit. We also require this minimum for a dog visit. This time allows the sitter to properly feed your furry friend and take them for a quick potty break walk. For optimal care, consider booking longer visits later in the day to ensure your dog's needs are met. If you have multiple pets or different types of animals, be sure to allocate extra time to accommodate their requirements. By booking enough time upfront, you can avoid any additional charges in case the visit runs over. Give your pet the best care possible by scheduling the appropriate amount of time for their pet sitting visits.

Your sitter is dedicated to giving your pets and home the utmost care while you're away. We aim to sync your pets' routine with the sitter's schedule for their happiness and relaxation. If adjustments are needed for your pets' well-being, we are open to suggestions. Your pets' care and comfort are our top priorities, and we are committed to ensuring everyone's contentment during your absence. Many clients have mentioned that their pets receive exceptional attention from us compared to their regular routine. This is our main focus and commitment!