Why should I use Paws R Us Pet Services?

As a locally owned and operated pet care company, Paws R Us Pet Services recognizes that each client-and pet-has his or her own specific requirements. We tailor our care according to your preferences and your pet's needs. Many veterinarians recommend that pets stay at home while their owners are away. Our in-home pet and home care allows your pets to stay in familiar surroundings, maintain their diet and exercise routines, avoid stress from being transported to a boarding facility and minimizes exposure to illnesses from other animals.

Can I trust Paws R Us Pet Services with my pets and home?

YES! Our sitters are subjected to extensive screening prior to being employed with Paws R Us Pet Services. Our sitter screening process includes in-depth interviewing, background check (criminal). All sitters are bonded and insured provided by Paws R Us Pet Services. Your name and the contents of your home always remain confidential. House keys are coded anonymously. None of our vehicles have company advertising, which prevents people from knowing you are not home or are out of town.

What types of pets do you provide care for?

We care for all types of domestic animals including dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, etc. If you do not see your pet listed, please call our office 703-317-7423 with your specific needs.

Can Paws R Us Pet Services administer medications to my pet?

We only administer oral and topical medication. More complex procedures (i.e., insulin injections, sub-q fluids, etc.) will not be performed by our pet sitters. If your pets have any special needs and you are concerned about whether we can accommodate them, please don't hesitate to ask!

What happens if my pet becomes ill?

In the event of an emergency, we will take your pet to your veterinarian following the instructions you gave us on the Veterinary Treatment/Authorization Form. In the event of an after hours emergency, we will take your pet to the nearest pet after hours clinic. At the same time, we will be contacting you or your emergency contact person. Our Pet Sitter will remain with your pet until you are reached and appropriate action is taken.

What if my property or pet is damaged?

Paws R Us Pet Services is liable only for damage from negligence or willful misconduct by one of our sitters. Due to the unpredictability of animals, we cannot accept responsibility for uncontrollable mishaps (such as bites or furniture damage).

Who are the Pet Sitters?

Our pet sitting team is made up of a carefully selected group of animal lovers and pet owners. All Pet Sitters have passed an extensive background check (criminal). We choose only the most responsible animal lovers to join our pet sitting team and put new hires through a rigorous screening and training program. Our Pet Sitters are committed to developing a personal and long-term relationship with your pet. All of our Pet Sitters are bonded and insured.

What time do the sitters come and how long do they stay?

Our visits are scheduled in eight different time blocks. Depending upon your scheduled request (s), visits are 20, 30, 45, or 60 minutes long and are performed during the following scheduled timeframes:

      Puppy Mid-Morning 10:00am to 12:00pm

      Puppy Afternoon 1:00pm to 3:00pm   

      Before 10 8:00am to 10:00am

      Mid-Morning 10:00am to 12:00am

      Afternoon 12:00pm to 2:00pm

      Mid-Afternoon 2:00pm to 4:00pm

      After 5 5:00pm to 9:00pm

      Overnight 7:00 pm to 7:00 am (12 hours; actual times may vary)

Will I always have the same Pet Sitter?

Because we understand that pets form a special bond with their Pet Sitter, we make every attempt to have the same Pet Sitter visit your home each time. In the event your sitter is not available (i.e., illness, vacation, etc.), you can rest assured that another fully trained and informed Paws R Us Pet Services sitter can provide you and your pet with our consistent high standard of care.

Can I have someone share pet sitting responsibilities?

Paws R Us Pet Services politely declines to provide pet sitting services if client has family or guests staying in home. We also decline to share responsibility for pet care with family, neighbors, friends and others. In the event a Pet Sitter arrives and finds an unexpected or unauthorized person in your home, Pet Sitter will notify the authorities. If it is determined you have someone other than Paws R Us Pet Services providing pet care services, we will immediately discontinue performance of services. There will be no credit/refund given for unfulfilled services.

If I have a last minute trip, can you help?

We do understand that sometimes things come up and we will always try and fit you in if possible. This is especially difficult with new clients since a Registration Visit is required 72 hours prior to Paws R Us Pet Services taking care of your pets. Giving us as much advance notice as possible is the best way to get you on the schedule!

How do I pay?

We accept Cash, Check, Master Card, Visa, and Discover. Payments will be charged prior to the first day of service. No services will be performed if payment has not been made. If you have not received email confirmation that payment has been made, please do not leave town without contacting the office. Checks should be made out to Paws R Us Pet Services and all CC payments are made online through a invoice that is provided to you through e-mail.

Why do you need two sets of keys?

Occasionally the unexpected happens. To ensure your pet(s) are taken care of we keep one set of keys locked in our office and give one set of keys to your sitter. All keys are labeled with an anonymous code known only to our office.

What is your cancellation policy?

REGULAR VISITS

0 - 48 hours prior to any service: Payment in full is charged (no refunds)  

3 - 7 days prior to service:  20% of service total is due (equals an 80% refund)

8 days prior to service or more:  No charge, refund in full.

HOLIDAYS

0 - 48 hours prior to any service: Payment in full is charged (no refunds)  

3 - 7 days prior to service:  50% of service total is due (equals an 50% refund)

8 days prior to service or more:  No charge, refund in full.

Please see our Policies page for a full description of the cancellation policies.

What is your inclement weather policy?

In the event of inclement weather, natural disaster or act of God, our Pet Sitters make every effort to reach your residence and care for your pet(s) and home. We strongly encourage you to give a house key to a nearby neighbor in the event your pet sitter cannot get to your home due to closed roads (i.e., fire, flooding, snow, etc.).

Should a property damaging storm occur while you are away, Paws R Us Pet Services reserves the right to do an extra" visit to ensure the safety of your pet(s) and home. Clients will be charged for the extra visit.

Regular midday walks are canceled whenever a locality closes its' school and government offices. No services will be charged and will be credited towards future services

What can I expect upon my return?

All of our sitters leave daily online notes with a short description of how each visit went and services performed. In addition, there is a reminder card with a toll free number and extension for you to call so that we know you are back safe and sound! If you do not call us, we will try to call you. However, if we cannot get in touch with you, we reserve the right to continue services until told otherwise. This guarantees your pets are cared for in the event your return home is unexpectedly delayed. Additional charges will apply for extension of service.