Frequently Asked Questions about dog training, pet sitting and pet care
Q) Are you a training or a petsitting operation of both?
A) We are a Pet Services Company. If you live in the Arvada, Golden, Thornton, Federal Heights, Broomfield, or the general West Metro Denver area and have a pet, we are for you. It all started as a training operation, but soon people were asking for other services. So as not to disappoint, we expanded.
Q) I notice that you emphasize dogs. Do you also work with cats and other pets?
A) We watch and take care of all types of pets in the Arvada, Golden, Lakewood, Superior, Broomfield, and the West Metro Denver area. I try to have somebody with specific skills and abilities for each type of pet. For example, ideally somebody watching after a snake would have the ability and desire and hopefully the experience to do so. However for training purposes, I am only certified for dogs and dogs are all we train.
Q) I don't see the exact service I'd like. Do you vary from your list?
A) Yes. We will do anything (within reason) the owner wants. If you are in the West Metro Denver area and you do not see what you want, just call Dave at the number shown at the bottom of this page.
Q) I looked at your prices and they seem reasonable, but I have many, many pets. Do you negotiate?
A) Yes! If you are looking for pet sitting, dog training, and pet care in the Wheatridge, Arvada, Golden, Broomfield, Broomfield, and the West Metro Denver area, the best way to proceed is to contact us indicting your circumstances to us so that we have a bit of time to think about it, then place a follow-up call to Dave.
Q) I notice that you mostly specialize in at home sitting. Why?
A) The alternative to home visits is kenneling or home pet boarding at a pet sitter's home. I find that dogs, in particular (and studies back this up), but I'm guessing all animals, are just more comfortable in surroundings they are familiar with. In my view, boarding in a home environment is preferable to kenneling as at least the pet will have the family environment. Kenneling has inherent health risks and attendant issues, plus the animal is in an unfamiliar environment with unfamiliar smells and sounds. And besides, who can take that look as you walk away?
Q) Do you provide food and other needs for the animal?
A) No. The owner provides all needs of the animal. We make sure the pet gets what he/she needs when he/she needs it.
Q) Do you have pet exercise programs for overweight animals?
A) Yes. We have group dog exercise walks and private dog walks in Lakewood, Arvada, Golden, Superior, Westminster, Broomfield and the West Metro Denver area, and will do any routine (within reason) suggested by a Veterinarian. As stated above, if you do not see the service you wish, just contact Dave at the number listed below.
Q) Can we book online or is a phone call necessary?
A) Actually, online is preferred. It will actually save you time as it provides you the time to think about your needs and allows us the time to think about our responses. We generally follow up with a phone call for additional questions or incomplete answers. You can submit pet care requests and work orders to us here.
Q) If I call will I have to press one for English ant then be routed into some telephone Hades?
A) NO! We only speak dog and English! Your call will be answered by Dave if he's in. If he's not in, you will go to a real, honest-to-goodness answering device and Dave will call you back ASAP.
Q) How far in advance do I need to book pet care services?
A) As far in advance as possible is best. You recommend that you fill out a service request to get the ball rolling. We like to book two weeks in advance. For holiday time or summer vacations we recommend at least three weeks in advance to secure the dates you want and the sitter you prefer. We will try to accommodate shorter notices as well.
Q Do you give medications to pets and change pet bandages?
A) Yes. We give prescribed pills, most shots and apply ointments, bandaging as prescribed by the Vet, and requested by the owner, etc.
Q) How do I know my keys are safe?
A) No marks are put on your keys that identify your address. We may use a pet name or a code number. With your approval, we make a back up for emergencies, (breakage, loss etc). All copies will be returned or destroyed.
Q) What's the difference between you and other pet care providers?
A) We're the best.
Q) What areas do you service?
A) We provide pet care, dog and cat care, and dog walking in Golden, Thornton, Federal Heights, Arvada, Westminster, West Denver, Broomfield, Northglenn, Wheat Ridge, and Superior Colorado. If it is a ways distant from the sitter, a fuel charge may apply.
Q) Are you bonded and insured?
A) Yes. Actually, we're better than bonded. We carry a rider on our liability insurance that includes coverage for your pets as well as your other personal property for accidental damage, mysterious disappearance, and theft.
Q) How much notice for cancellation do you need?
A) As much as possible. But, hey, we understand that things happen.
Q) Do you have references?
A) Yes, we can provide you with references you may contact.
Q) Will my dog be walked alone?
A) Your call. Whether you would like a dog group walk or an individual dog walk, let us know.
Q) What if there is an emergency?
A) We will attempt to notify you of any emergency situation. We will take your pet to your preferred veterinarian if possible. If not, to the closest emergency vet clinic. If there is a problem with your pet sitter we have back up sitters to make sure your pets are taken care of. Dave is the final backup. If a problem arises in your home, repair services or appropriate authorities will be notified.
Q) Are there any extra costs on holidays?
A) Yes. There is a $10.00 additional charge for certain holiday visits. This goes directly to the sitter for his or her willingness to give of their time on holidays.
Q) My pet has shown aggression in the past. Can he still be a client?
A) Maybe. At the initial FREE pet consultation we will determine if we can get along. Our goal is to keep everybody (pets included) safe and sound.
Q) How do I give you house keys?
A) Please have two keys ready for us to pick up at the FREE consultation. There is a $15.00 charge to pick them up later. We are also considering using a lock box system which will require a deposit, if you prefer. We can keep a key on file for future services or leave the keys in the house. If we leave the keys at your request upon completion of the job, MAKE SURE SOMEONE NEARBY HAS A SPARE KEY in case you are delayed.
Q) Do I need to call when I return?
A) YES!! We need to know that you have returned so we know your pets are safe and in your care.
Q) May I give a tip to my pet sitter?
A) Certainly! Tips are never expected but always appreciated!
Q) What forms of payment do you accept?
A) Unlike some others in the pet care business, we prefer to bill a credit card (Visa/Mastercard) AFTER the service is performed, generally at the end of the month for the pet care services provided during the month. We will accept other forms of payment as well, just contact Dave at the number shown at the bottom of this page.