At PAWsome Companions, we genuinely care about our furry friends and their humans. That's why we’re thrilled to share our PAW-licies (policies) with you—guidelines that showcase our commitment to our values, transparency, and open communication. These principles are the foundation of our relationship with you, and they help us build the trust that’s so important to us. We want your experience with us to be as clear and enjoyable as possible. Our aim is to provide quality pet care services while keeping you informed at every step. By maintaining high standards and making key information easy to find, we work hard to ensure you and your pets receive the best care.

Thank you for being a part of our community! We’re here to support you and your beloved pets every step of the way.

Cancellations 

To provide the absolute best care to our clients, keep our team members happy and productive, and ensure our office operates as efficiently as possible, we have implemented this Cancellation Policy for all visits. We understand that life happens, and sometimes you need to cancel services. Of course, nobody likes to pay for a service they did not use. However, we are committed to employing a great staff who love and care for your animals, which sometimes means you have to pay for short-notice cancellations.

 

Clients who decide to cancel services upon our arrival will be held responsible for the full charge of the scheduled service. This policy is in place because our scheduling is meticulously arranged based on your booking, allowing us to allocate specific time slots for each of our valued clients. When you book a service with us, you are not only securing a dedicated time for yourself but also for your beloved pets, ensuring that they receive the attention and care they deserve.

Please understand that by reserving this time, we may inadvertently turn away other clients, as we have committed our resources to meet your needs. This means that once we have scheduled a visit, that time is no longer available for others who may also be seeking our services. We appreciate your understanding of this policy and encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or concerns regarding your booking.

**IN ORDER TO BEST SERVE YOUR NEEDS, WE ENFORCE THE FOLLOWING CANCELLATION POLICY:**

• If you need to cancel your pet services, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellations made without enough notice will result in the full charge for the services you had scheduled.
• To help us serve you and other pet parents better, we kindly ask for at least five (5) days’ notice for non-holiday trips and eight (8) days for holiday trips. As you can imagine, holidays are especially busy for us, and we often have a full schedule months in advance.
• If you cancel within four (4) days of a non-holiday trip or seven (7) days of a holiday trip, you will be charged for 50% of the service cost.
• If our sitter or walker is already on their way or has arrived when you cancel, you’ll be responsible for the full cost of the booked service, for their time and travel.
• Cancellations made on the same day as your booking or with less than 24 hours’ notice will incur a full charge for the services.

Notification of Returning Home

At PAWsome Companions, pet safety is our top priority. We understand travel can lead to unexpected delays, so we ask that you notify us as soon as you return home. If we do not hear from you within 12 hours after your last visit, we will arrange an additional check-in for your pets. This extra visit will incur a full visit fee plus a $10 charge for unexpected travel costs. We appreciate your cooperation, which helps us maintain our high care standards.

24-hour Overnight Stays 

When providing a full 24-hour stay at your residence, our pet sitters may have commitments with other clients, necessitating brief absences from your residence that can range from 2 to 4 hours during our normal business hours. However, please be assured that your pets will be tended to before our sitters depart, with attention given to their needs such as potty breaks, feedings etc.

Be at ease knowing that your pets will be carefully monitored and cared for, even during these short intervals when our sitters are away. Our utmost priority is the health and happiness of your beloved animals, and we aim to facilitate a smooth and worry-free experience for both you and your pets. Should you have any specific requests or instructions regarding your pet's care during these temporary departures, kindly inform us so we may accommodate them to the best of our ability.

Accepted Forms of Payment

We give preference to utilizing Zelle as opposed to other payment options in order to steer clear of extra handling charges. Our Zelle account can be found and is linked unded our number '8052060349'. Moreover, we are able to accept payments via Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Cash App, PayPal, cash, and credit cards. Kindly be informed that a processing fee of 3.0-3.49% is applicable to all these payment methods except Zelle, for all credit card dealings, and for any payments executed through invoices. Personal checks are not accepted unless sanctioned by management.

Parking

Securing a parking spot in places with limited parking, such as apartment complexes, Los Angeles streets, and permit zones is crucial for our dog sitters and walkers. If a parking spot is not available, it will prevent us from providing your pet care service and you will still be charged the full fee of the service for time and travel. It is important to plan ahead and ensure that a parking spot is available for our team members to avoid any inconveniences with your services.

 

Due to our tight schedule, we do not pick up from tall buildings or complex residential areas. In these situations, pet owners are required to bring their pets to the front or lobby of their residence to staff members. To ensure the best care for your pets and the successful completion of services you have paid for, please make sure our team can park easily and you designate where we should park during the meet and greet.

Medication Administration

While we aim to fulfill all medication requests and adhere to clients' instructions, please understand that we cannot guarantee outcomes or assume liability for any resulting complications or missed doses. Pets with medical conditions or traits such as extreme timidity or startle responses face inherent risks when receiving medications from unfamiliar individuals. If this describes your pet, we recommend discussing your concerns with our staff.

Some pets tend to hide or avoid contact with strangers, complicating medication administration. We ask clients to consider this when scheduling visits. Our staff will make attempts to locate and treat pets for up to 10 minutes at no charge. If the pet remains unseen or non-compliant after that time, we will document any missed doses and notify the client. In addition to time constraints during visits, we seek to minimize stress or anxiety for all pets under our care when providing medications.

 

For the health and safety of all clients and their pets, we do not accept animals presenting with contagious illnesses. All pets must have up-to-date vaccinations before services commence. If one of our staff is exposed to an illness due to an improperly vaccinated pet, the client will be held liable for any resulting costs or damages.

Shared Pet Care Services 

We understand that pet ownership often involves collaboration with family members, friends, or other pet care professionals. To clarify our responsibilities and establish clear expectations regarding shared pet care duties, we have developed this Liability Policy. By utilizing our services, clients acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined herein. This policy applies to all clients of PAWsome Companions who engage in shared pet care arrangements with other individuals, including but not limited to family members, friends, neighbors, or other pet care businesses. It is essential to understand that while we strive to maintain the highest standards of pet care, the involvement of third parties can introduce variables beyond our control, therefore we are absolved of any and all liability. You will also be required to sign an additional shared services contract:

1. **Independent Actions of Third Parties**: PAWsome Companions shall not be held liable for any actions or omissions of individuals outside of our organization. This includes, but is not limited to, family members, friends, or staff from other pet care businesses who may assist in the care of the client’s pets. Clients acknowledge that PAWsome Companions cannot oversee or manage the care provided by these third parties and, therefore, cannot assume responsibility for their actions.

2. **Shared Responsibilities**: When clients choose to share pet care duties with others, it is the client’s responsibility to communicate the specific needs, preferences, and care instructions for their pets. PAWsome Companions is not liable for any misunderstandings, miscommunications, or errors resulting from shared responsibilities or differing care procedures implemented by third parties.

3. **Health and Safety Concerns**: Clients are encouraged to ensure that any individuals involved in the care of their pets are adequately trained and capable of providing the necessary care. PAWsome Companions cannot be held responsible for any injury, illness, or adverse event that may arise from the involvement of third parties in the pet care process.

4. **Insurance and Liability Coverage**: PAWsome Companions carries liability insurance to protect against incidents specifically arising from our services. However, this coverage does not extend to actions taken by third parties. Clients are advised to consider obtaining their own insurance coverage for any potential liabilities arising from shared pet care arrangements.

By engaging the services of PAWsome Companions, clients acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to the terms of this Liability Policy. Clients further agree to indemnify and hold PAWsome Companions harmless from any claims, damages, or losses arising from the actions of third parties involved in the care of their pets.

Plant Care

PAWsome Companions offers plant care service for both indoor and outdoor plants, tailored to the needs of each client when services are booked. Our team will diligently tend to and water your plants as requested, ensuring they receive the care they need to thrive. However, it is important to note that we are not responsible for any plants on the property that may be unhealthy, wilted, or dead. This also applies to any plants that are In similar condition when client returns.

While we strive to follow the instructions provided by our clients, we cannot guarantee the outcome or results of our plant care services. To help us better care for your plants, we ask that you clearly indicate which plants require attention by labeling them or placing them on a water-resistant surface in plain sight. This will ensure that our team can easily identify and care for the plants that need it most.

Emergency Backups

In the event of an emergency involving your regular pet sitter or dog walker, we have a backup plan in place to ensure that your beloved pets continue to receive the attentive care they deserve. Our dedicated team understands that unforeseen situations can arise, and we are committed to providing peace of mind for you as a pet owner.

Should your primary caregiver become unavailable for any reason, we will promptly arrange for your secondary pet caregiver to step in and assist with your pet's needs. This backup caregiver will be fully briefed on your pet's specific requirements, routines, and preferences to ensure a seamless transition. We believe that familiarity is key to a pet's comfort, so the main caregiver or manager will personally introduce the substitute caregiver to your pets, allowing for a smooth adjustment period.

 

You will be kept informed every step of the way, receiving timely updates about any changes in caregiving arrangements. Our priority is to maintain a consistent and nurturing environment for your pets, regardless of the circumstances. With our proactive measures in place, you can rest assured that your pets will continue to receive the highest level of care and attention, even in the most unexpected situations. Your peace of mind is our top priority, and we are here to support you and your furry family members at all times.

Social Media

PAWsome Companions, LLC. may use photos of your pets in their social media marketing on Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor or other social/media platforms from prior visits from daily check ins, dog walks or boarding clients. You are giving us permission to use photos of your pets by agreeing to these policies.

Keyless Home Entry

Starting January 1st, 2025, we will no longer accept physical keys for gaining entry into our clients’ residences. Instead, we require a keypad code, garage door code, or lockbox code located on your property. Our aim is to ensure the safety of your living space and pets while upholding the dependable service you rely on. We have detailed our available options for accessing your home:

1. **Use of a Lock Box**: We suggest installing a secure lock box outside your house. This method allows our pet care team to obtain your key without a physical handover. Lock boxes are secure and can only be unlocked with the correct code.

2. **Keypad Access** (front door or garage): If you have a keypad entry system on either your front door or for your garage, you can furnish us with the code or generate a special one for our team. We recommend creating a unique code for your sitter or walker. This practice ensures straightforward entry while safeguarding your home.

 

We encourage you to consider these options before your services commence, and we suggest that the details are shared during the meet and greet so we can test and verify the entry codes. Additionally, we highly advise you to have a spare key stored with a neighbor, friend, or in a concealed location on your premises in case any keypad malfunctions. This can help minimize any disruptions and delays to your pets' care. Should a locksmith need to be contacted, we will not assume responsibility for any fees or possible harm caused by the locksmith.

Required Vaccinations

Ensuring your pet is up to date on their vaccinations is crucial for keeping them healthy and safe. We require these vaccinations for doggy daycare, boarding, and all dog walks or outings to the beach, park, etc. These vaccinations not only protect your pet from harmful diseases, but also help prevent the spread of illness to other animals and even humans. By staying on top of your pet's vaccinations, you are not only protecting them, but also contributing to the overall health and well-being of the community.

Pet vaccinations are a form of preventative care that can save you and your pet from having to deal with costly treatments and surgeries down the line. By investing in these vaccinations, you are investing in your pet's long-term health and happiness. These are required for our existing daycare and boarding clients, and new clients with pets under 12 weeks of age.

Required dog vaccinations:

• Distemper
• Bordetella
• Leptospirosis
• Rabies
• Canine Influenza
• Hookworms/Roundworms

Required cat vaccinations:

• Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)
• Feline Leukemia
• Rabies
• Bordetella
• Hookworms/Roundworms

Make sure your pets are fully vaccinated and all their shots are good to go. We made sure our kids stayed up to date with vaccines, so as a pet parent, you gotta do the same for your furry friends. Depending on where you live and your pet's lifestyle, different vaccinations may be required. However, most veterinarians recommend common vaccinations for both dogs and cats to ensure they are fully protected. By working closely with your vet to create a vaccination schedule that suits your pet's needs, you can rest easy knowing that you are doing everything you can to keep them healthy and thriving for years to come.

Use of Pinch or Shock Collars

Our team is highly knowledgeable in employing positive reinforcement techniques grounded in evidence-based learning principles. Rather than resorting to fear, coercion, or harm, we focus on recognizing and rewarding correct behaviors in our animal companions to promote positive actions. We are resolute in our stance against using tools that could cause physical or psychological distress, like prong collars, choke chains, or shock devices. By utilizing humane and positive training methods, our goal is to create a pleasant experience for your pet, leading to anticipation for future visits and a sense of comfort while in our care. If your dog is entrusted to us for services such as walking or daycare and we find a prong or shock collar, we will promptly replace it with our own pet-friendly equipment. It’s imperative to stress that we completely prohibit prong collars on any of our clients' dogs, regardless of the situation. This philosophy is deeply embedded within our team, and we firmly advocate for positive reinforcement techniques that may require more time compared to a quick fix like a prong collar.

Use of Retractable Leashes 

In order to ensure the safety of both the dogs and our staff, we have implemented a policy stating that retractable leashes are not to be used during walks. Retractable leashes present various safety hazards for both dogs and walkers. These leashes are prone to tangling, which can result in injuries or mishaps. Moreover, the extended length of retractable leashes enables dogs to venture into risky scenarios, like traffic, before the walker can intervene. Additionally, there is a risk of the leash becoming unlocked and releasing the dog entirely. Due to safety concerns and potential liabilities, we choose not to use retractable leashes, and we thank you for your understanding.

Securing Areas

It is the sole responsibility of the client to pet-proof any areas of the home and/or property to which the pet has access. This includes conducting a thorough inspection of fences, gates, latches, doors, and other devices intended to confine the pet inside or prevent access to forbidden areas. PAWsome Companions, LLC. and the pet sitter or dog walker do not assume any liability for any injuries sustained by the pet(s) while in their own home.

Indoor/Outdoor Pet Access

The safety and well-being of our feline clients are our top priorities. To ensure a secure and nurturing environment for all cats in our care, we have implemented the following policy regarding outdoor access:

1. **Indoor-Only Policy:**
All cats in our care will remain indoors at all times. This policy is in place to protect the health and safety of our feline companions from potential dangers present in outdoor environments, including traffic, wildlife, and exposure to diseases. Indoor cats are less likely to be involved in accidents, contract diseases, or be exposed to harmful substances. Additionally, keeping our cats indoors helps to prevent overpopulation by avoiding unplanned litters. We believe that providing a safe and stimulating indoor environment is the best way to ensure the well-being of our beloved feline friends.

2. **Liability Considerations:**
PAWsome Companions is committed to minimizing risks associated with outdoor exposure. Allowing cats outside can lead to unforeseen accidents and liabilities. Therefore, to safeguard our clients and our business, we will not permit any outdoor access for cats under our supervision.

3. **Enrichment and Exercise:**
We recognize the importance of mental stimulation and physical activity for cats. To meet these needs, we provide a variety of indoor enrichment activities, including interactive toys, climbing structures, and playtime sessions. Our trained staff will ensure that each cat receives adequate exercise and engagement within the safety of our facility.

4. **Compliance:**
All staff members at PAWsome Companions are trained to adhere strictly to this policy. Regular reviews and updates will be conducted to ensure ongoing compliance and to address any emerging safety considerations.

By adhering to this policy, PAWsome Companions aims to create a safe, secure, and loving environment for all cats entrusted to our care. We believe that every cat deserves to feel comfortable and cherished while in our facilities. Our trained staff members are dedicated to providing top-notch care and attention to each feline friend. We strive to ensure that all cats receive the proper nutrition, exercise, and medical care they need to thrive. We treat every cat as if they were our own beloved pet, because we understand the importance of creating a positive and nurturing environment for these special animals.

Liability

PAWsome Companions, LLC hereby declares that we are not liable or responsible for any loss, damage, or injuries that may occur during your pet's stay or service with us. While we take every precaution to ensure the safety and well-being of all animals entrusted to our care, we cannot guarantee against unforeseen or overly harsh consequences from circumstances. By utilizing our services, you acknowledge and accept that any risks associated with your pet's stay are assumed by you, the owner. We recommend consulting with your veterinarian and obtaining appropriate insurance coverage prior to boarding or scheduling services for your pet with us. Your decision to entrust your pet to our care constitutes acceptance of this clause.

Contacting Team Members

Please refrain from placing our sitters in uncomfortable situations by proposing pet sitting or dog walking services outside of PAWsome Companions. While you may have their private cell phone numbers for emergencies during your absence, we kindly ask that you refrain from contacting them to schedule future engagements upon your return. Our sitters are bound by a contractual agreement that prohibits them from independently seeking or accepting work directly from clients. It is essential to respect our sitters' professional boundaries and uphold the agreements in place to ensure a harmonious working relationship. By adhering to these guidelines, we can maintain mutual trust and support within the PAWsome Companions community. Your consideration and cooperation are greatly appreciated in providing a positive experience for both our sitters and clients. Thank you for your understanding and commitment to our shared values.

Meet and Greets

At PAWsome Companions, meeting and greeting our clients is a big deal, and one of the many reasons they are required if you book services with us. We totally get the importance of connecting with both you and your pets right from the start. Our aim is to make the whole experience super easy and helpful for you. When we meet, we’ll chat and gather all the important info about your pets and what you need. This helps us make sure our services are just right for your fur babies.

 

In addition to learning about your pets, we will also guide you through our client forms to ensure that we have all the necessary details to provide the best care. If you prefer, our team is more than happy to assist with filling out the forms based on the information you provide during our meeting. This personalized approach ensures that every aspect of our interaction is designed to make the process seamless and efficient for you. We look forward to the opportunity to meet and greet you, and to begin this journey of providing excellent care for your pets!

Private Boarding

We frequently receive inquiries about providing boarding services in our facility. Presently, our boarding service is exclusively available to new clients on a case-by-case basis as we encourage our clients to provide these services in their own home. This change is primarily driven by the observed impact we've seen with boarding. Boarding in our private residence often results in increased stress and anxiety in the dogs we've cared for. Many dogs experience anxiety when removed from their familiar environment and placed in an unfamiliar setting with other animals. Therefore, we believe that boarding services should ideally be conducted at the client's home, where their pets feel most comfortable and secure.

 

For clients who have utilized our boarding services in the past, this option remains available. We appreciate the trust our regular clients place in us, and we have tailored our daycare and boarding services at our facility to meet their specific needs. To ensure a stable and secure environment for our recurring pets, we do not offer tours to new clients or in general. Introducing new individuals and pets into our environment could disturb the comfort of our clients' pets and cause unnecessary stress from exposure to unfamiliar faces, both human and animal. Our primary focus is to maintain the safety and familiarity that our clients' pets experience under our care. However, we understand that there may be exceptional circumstances, so we encourage reaching out to explore alternative doggy daycare and boarding options, as we are always willing to consider individual situations.

Departures & Returns

By booking our sitters for a specific duration, you are effectively reserving our team’s time, resources, and unwavering commitment to tending to your pets throughout the entire time frame. All members adhere to the visit schedule as defined and confirmed by you, our client, prior to your departure date. If you arrive home early and do not notify us, any remaining visit(s) will be completed and charged as scheduled. Similarly, if you depart late and do not notify us, the confirmed visit(s) will be completed and charged as scheduled. We uphold a policy wherein the full duration of the originally scheduled pet sitting period is charged in the event of an early return. This policy is implemented to safeguard the uncompromised quality of our service, ensure efficient allocation of resources, and fairly compensate our pet sitters for the time dedicated to caring for your pets. Please note, we do not provide refunds if you return home early from your trip.

 

When making reservations with our establishment for specific dates, it is possible that we may need to refuse other clients who have also requested the same dates or times. This can result in missed business opportunities and the potential loss of a long-term client. To mitigate this loss, we have implemented this policy that requires our clients to honor their original booking dates.

Arrival Times for Services

In the dynamic world of pet sitting, every day brings new adventures and challenges that keep us engaged and attentive. Whether we’re caring for a senior dog facing health issues, a shy cat who needs a little extra time to feel comfortable, or an energetic puppy learning about crate training, we meet a wonderful mix of personalities and situations with each visit. And just when we think we have it all figured out, life throws us a curveball—like unexpected traffic, sudden changes in a pet’s routine, or a playful pup who decides to be a little mischievous!

Because of this unpredictability, we know how crucial it is to be flexible with our schedules. Instead of promising an exact arrival time, we provide an estimated arrival window. This helps us manage the surprises that come our way while ensuring your furry family members receive the love and attention they deserve. By keeping the lines of communication open, we aim to create a reassuring experience for both you and your pets, no matter what surprises the day holds.

 

While we always aim to honor your preferred service times and arrive as punctually as possible, we kindly ask for your understanding that exact arrival times cannot be guaranteed. To make scheduling smoother, we utilize "arrival windows" that provide a clearer expectation of when we will arrive. Typically, these windows span 2 to 3 hours, available from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. For example, our early morning window runs from 5:00 AM to 7:30 AM, and we follow a similar pattern throughout the day. Although we strive to adhere to these time frames, minor delays may occasionally occur due to unforeseen circumstances.

 

Rest assured, during these arrival windows, your cherished pets will receive the highest standard of care. We prioritize their needs and ensure that every task is performed with the utmost attention, never rushed. Our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional pet care remains steadfast, even as we navigate the occasional scheduling hiccups. We truly appreciate your trust in us to look after your beloved companions—after all, their happiness and well-being are our top priorities!

Arrival Windows for Once Daily Cat Visits

When you choose to book only once daily visits for your beloved cats, we ask you to schedule these visits for "any time of day" within our working hours or cat arrival windows. This flexibility empowers us to provide the best care for your feline friends while optimizing our travel and visit schedules.

Our cat arrival windows typically span the morning, afternoon, and evening, with specific times outlined on our cat sitting visit page. For those opting for twice-a-day visits, they are spaced with a convenient 12-hour interval. If you have a senior cat or one with medical needs that require timely medication, rest assured that they will receive priority attention and a dedicated one-hour arrival window.

We genuinely strive to accommodate your preferred visit times, but it's important to remember that our schedule also includes caring for other clients and managing unexpected emergencies, not to mention the occasional challenges posed by Los Angeles and Ventura County traffic. By selecting flexible visit times, you help us ensure that we can provide the highest level of care for your furry companions.

Neighbors, Friends, Family or Visitors

It is important to note that PAWsome Companions wants to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets while in our care. We cannot be held responsible for any damages or issues that may occur to either your pets or your propert as a result of other individuals entering and exiting your home while our pet care services are being provided. We kindly ask that you inform us during the meet & greet of any persons who may have access to your home in your absence, such as friends, family, and neighbors. Please understand that PAWsome Companions only takes responsibility for our own staff present in your home during the time pet care services are being administered. Your cooperation in providing this information will help us provide the best possible care for your beloved pets.

Other Professionals & Caretakers 

We are passionate about providing the best care for your pets and ensuring the safety of our caretakers. It is our mission to maintain transparency and security in all our operations. Therefore, we kindly ask for your cooperation in informing your neighbors about our services, even if our company information is displayed on our vehicle. Additionally, we request advance notice if anyone, including workers, house cleaners, gardeners, or any other individual, is scheduled to enter your home while you are away. This proactive approach allows us to keep an accurate record of individuals who have access to your property, ensuring that unexpected encounters with law enforcement or neighbors are avoided. Most importantly, it helps to guarantee the safety of our sitters in case of any unforeseen events. We understand that these measures may seem extreme, but our ultimate goal is to protect your pets, your home, and our caretakers. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated and helps us in fulfilling our commitment to the well-being of your pets and home.

Private Dog Walks

We adhere to a strict policy of not walking multiple dogs together unless specifically requested by the owner. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of each dog under our care. It is crucial for us to provide individualized attention to every dog during their walks, allowing them to explore and enjoy their outdoor time without any unnecessary stress or distractions. We recognize that an owner or a neighbor in the building or area may wish for their dog to socialize with a familiar companion. However, in order to facilitate such an arrangement, it is essential that it be mutually agreed upon by all the owners involved. This ensures that the dogs’ temperament, behavior, and compatibility with one another are taken into consideration, promoting a positive and enjoyable experience for all furry friends involved. Our priority is to create a safe and harmonious environment for every dog in our care, and we believe that individualized attention and consideration play a vital role in achieving this goal.

Pet Care Agreement Form

Our pet care and veterinary agreements, acting as official documents, outline vital aspects including emergency procedures, measures for pet and property protection, service scope, payment terms (initial 50% deposit and balance settlement on departure date or service completion), scheduled arrival times, your pet ownership responsibilities and more. These are important legal documents that define roles and responsibilities for us as your service provider and for you, as our client, and help ensure the best possible care for your pets and property.

 

Moreover, we inform our clients about emergency protocols and the insurance coverage provided for unexpected medical situations concerning your pet. We kindly ask for your acknowledgment, approval, and submission of these agreement forms through Walkies when they are added to your client profile before your initial meet and greet booking.

Emergency Contacts and 24-Hour Veterinarians 

We understand how important it is to have access to veterinary care at any time of the day, especially during emergencies. If you are unable to find a 24-hour veterinarian in your area, don’t worry. We have (5) emergency veterinarians available in Ventura and Los Angeles County who are ready to assist listed below. In addition to this, we kindly ask for the details of a local emergency contact, someone who is close to your home and not traveling with you. This is an important precaution to ensure that we can reach someone quickly in case of any unforeseen events. We often receive the contact details of a traveling spouse, but it’s crucial to have someone local. In the unlikely event that we are unable to reach you, these contacts will enable us to make quick decisions to address any issues that may arise, making decisions for your pet on your behalf. In the rare situation where we cannot reach you or your emergency contact, rest assured that we will take the necessary life sustaining steps to provide your pet with the care they need, including connecting them with a 24-hour veterinarian. Our main priority is the health and safety of your pet, and we are committed to doing everything we can to extend or save their life in any unfortunate circumstances.

If you need any 24-hour emergency veterinarians, here are a few for both Ventura and Los Angeles County:

🟡 Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center of Thousand Oaks: 2967 N. Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 – (805) 492-2436

🔴 Western Veterinary Center, Medical & Surgical Hospital: 4990 Reyes Adobe Rd., Agoura Hills, CA 91301 – (805) 957-7387

🟢 VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital: 1900 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025 – (310) 473-2951

🔵 VCA ASEC: 1535 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025 – (310) 473-5906

🟠 VCA TLC Pasadena Veterinary Specialty and Emergency: 1412 Huntington Dr., South Pasadena, CA 91310 – (626) 441-8555

NO Pet Left Behind

Sometimes we find ourselves in what we like to call “ignore the cat” situations. This happens when clients reach out for help with their dogs, only for us to discover upon arrival that there’s also a cat in the house that they think can just be ignored. The same goes for homes with multiple pets, like those with birds or other animals. Even though cats are known for being independent, they still need daily care, love, and playtime.

We’re more than happy to take care of all your furry (or feathered or scaled) friends, but we can’t accept jobs where certain pets are left out. It’s important that all pets in your home are mentioned, and their care instructions should be clearly noted in your online profile. As pet care professionals, we take our responsibility for every animal in your home very seriously, no matter how independent they may seem. Our passion for providing complete care for every pet drives our commitment to ensuring that all of them receive the attention they deserve.

Deposits & Payments

In order to ensure the provision of quality service and to accommodate our esteemed clients, we kindly request a 50% non-refundable deposit for all pet care reservations 48-hours prior to your departure date and the remaining 50% on your actual departure date. For overnight stays, private boarding and services booked over a week, we require the entire payment upfront. It is customary in the pet care industry to request payment in advance in order to secure a reservation for services. This practice is akin to policies observed in the travel sector, where prepayment is necessary to confirm a seat on an airplane. By submitting payment in advance, clients can rest assured that their services are securely reserved with our company, thereby enabling them to focus on their travel arrangements without concern for their pet's well-being.

Pet Cameras & Audio Equipment

We uphold a culture of trust and respect, both for our esteemed clients and our dedicated pet sitters. As home security cameras have become increasingly prevalent, it is entirely reasonable for pet owners to wish to monitor their beloved companions. Ensuring the safety and well-being of your pets while you are away is a paramount concern for every responsible pet owner, and we fully endorse this initiative, recognizing it as a reflection of your genuine care for their welfare.

 

Nevertheless, we also bear a responsibility to safeguard the privacy and comfort of our sitters while they tend to your cherished pets. To foster an environment where our sitters can concentrate on delivering exceptional care without the anxiety of constant surveillance, we propose a straightforward yet effective solution: permitting our sitters to deactivate cameras during their overnight stays or extended in-home visits. This modest gesture will significantly enhance their ability to provide loving and attentive care, thereby ensuring a positive experience for all parties involved. Should this arrangement be unfeasible for you, we kindly request that you disable the audio on your cameras. Such a measure is essential for protecting sensitive information that may arise during their time in your home, whether related to another client's information or personal matters. Please note that during all overnight stays, your sitter will deactivate the camera during their sleeping hours and reactivate it upon awakening.

 

This approach transcends mere privacy; it is fundamentally about enabling our caregivers to deliver the highest standard of care to your pets. By allowing them to operate without the pressure of surveillance, they can devote their full attention to your furry companions, particularly during periods of downtime when they need to recharge. Once our sitters have concluded their responsibilities in your home, we encourage them to reactivate the cameras, allowing you to continue monitoring your pets and providing peace of mind in knowing they are in capable hands.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in cultivating a supportive environment that allows our sitters to thrive and ensures your pets feel safe and loved. Please rest assured that all our audio and video guidelines strictly adhere to federal and California state laws concerning surveillance and privacy. Any unauthorized video surveillance in private areas, such as bedrooms and bathrooms, will be promptly addressed to uphold the integrity of your home.

Rainy Days & Hot Weather 

Dog walking services will be conducted in light rain. However, in cases of severe weather such as heavy rain or storms, there may be a necessity to abbreviate or cancel your pet's walk. Your assigned walker retains the discretion to make this decision, even if you request the walk to proceed.

 

Should you opt to maintain your booking, the scheduled time can be utilized for indoor activities, playtime, or reserved for a future service. In the event that your pet becomes wet, they will be towel dried. We acknowledge the unpredictable nature of weather conditions and respect your choice regarding whether to proceed with the walk. Light rain is typically manageable, and services will be rendered as planned. However, for heavier rain, temperatures below 50 degrees, high wind chill, winds exceeding 10mph, or temperatures over 85 degrees, your walker may suggest rescheduling or substitute your scheduled walk or hike with enrichment activities as mentioned earlier.

 

Please be aware that your walker may reschedule your booking at their discretion due to weather conditions. If you prefer your dog not to walk in wet conditions and are unable to provide 24 hours' notice, we will endeavor to reschedule within the same week without disrupting other appointments.

One Visit Every Day

Our pet-sitting policy is not just a set of rules – it’s our promise to your beloved pets. We are dedicated to ensuring that every cat receives at least one daily visit, and every dog is visited twice, with no more than 12 hours between visits. We firmly believe that skipping a day is simply not an option when it comes to the well-being of your furry companions. Even if you have automatic feeders or think your pet is independent, we insist on our daily visits because we are committed to their safety and happiness. As their caretakers, we hold ourselves to the highest standards to provide the best care possible for your cherished pets while you are away.

Pet Guardianship 

In the case of an unexpected emergency or a situation posing a serious threat to your life or even loss of life, we kindly request our clients to appoint both a local emergency contact and a pet guardian. The well-being of your pet is of utmost importance to us, and we strive to guarantee that they will be cared for in accordance with your directives should any unfortunate events occur. Although we have not previously faced such a troubling circumstance, we are dedicated to handling all potential eventualities, providing you with reassurance that your beloved pets will be properly attended to while under our supervision.

 

We understand that emergencies can be a stressful and worrying time for pet owners. By designating an emergency contact and a pet guardian, you are taking proactive steps to safeguard your furry companions in case of any unexpected events. Rest assured that our team is prepared to act swiftly and decisively to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets. Your trust in us is valued, and we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of care for your beloved animals. Thank you for entrusting us with the responsibility of caring for your pets, we are here to support you and your furry friends every step of the way.

Privacy Policy

All of your information will be held in the utmost privacy and confidentiality. PAWsome Companions, LLC. is steadfast in its commitment to never sell or disclose any client’s information. We highly prioritize the privacy and confidentiality of our clients’ information. We recognize the trust you bestow upon us when sharing your personal details and want to assure you that we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of data protection. Our commitment to you is unwavering — we will never compromise your privacy by selling or disclosing any of your information. You can rest assured knowing that your trust in PAWsome Companions, LLC. is valued, and your privacy is our foremost priority.

Code of Conduct and Ethics