THE SCOOP
ABOUT ME
I understand how hard it is to entrust your animals welfare to someone else.
The person you choose needs to understand your pets needs thoroughly.
When you find the right person, your pet will benefit greatly from
remaining at home while you are away.
Some animals seem to have larger separation issues than others.
Whether they make a fuss when you leave, or not, it's not easy to leave them.
Peace of mind in knowing that they are going to be well taken care of is well worth it.
That's where I come in.
I will care for and love your pets as if they were my own.
I know what it's like and I'm there for you and them 100%.
I consider myself their personal assistant because
I'm all about them.
I'm tuned in.
They talk - I listen.
Throughout my life, I have personally had
dogs, cats, ferrets, guinea pigs, gerbils, anoles, frogs, turtles and fish as pets.
All were my teachers then, my angels now, and will live on in my heart forever.
What they taught me then, and are still teaching me now,
enables me to offer exemplary care to your animal friends today.
care for your pets while you are away. From boarding at various facilities, to asking friends/relatives to help, to hiring a professional pet sitter.
The question is,
"What option is right for you and your pet(s)?".
My personal choice? A professional pet sitter.
I have hired a professional pet sitter to take care of my pet
and I know what it's like to trust someone.
The things that were most important to me were:
WELL BEING
I wanted to be sure that while I was gone, my pet was in great hands.
I needed to know that someone reliable was going to be there for him
should anything happen on his end or mine.
I needed to know we were covered.
COMFORT LEVEL
I know he didn't like me leaving him.
Putting him in a strange environment while he was already
stressed made no sense to me and was never an option.
Finding a reliable sitter so he could be cared for at home
was the only option for my comfort level and his.
EXERCISE
I wanted someone to come in and play with him.
Exercise was a part of his daily routine
and I wanted it to remain that way.
ROUTINE
With routine being such an important factor,
I wanted someone that I could count on to be there
at a specific time that we had arranged.
This way his feeding schedule, medicine and playtime
would all happen at the times when he was expecting them to happen.
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MY MAIN GOALS
WELL BEING, COMFORT LEVEL, EXERCISE AND ROUTINE
My service is based on what I want from a pet sitter.
I strive to keep their routine as in tact as possible, so that they have some sense of consistency in your absence. It has been my experience, that keeping up their routines while you're away assists in lessening separation anxiety they may go through. I have a keen sense for detail and am totally focused on, and devoted to them and their routine while I'm there. I also will not start any new routines or tricks with them, unless you've requested this.
This makes it easier upon your return, as your schedule will have remained virtually the same. If you have walks at a certain time, I'll strive to walk them at those same times. That same concept is applied throughout, e.g., dinnertime, playtime, treats, medicines, tricks, dialog, hand gestures, and any other specific forms of established communication and habits.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM ME
Our first visit together is going to be
a free consultation, whereupon we
will gather information about each
other (you, me and your pets). If we
decide to go forward, you'll show me
your various routines with your
pet(s)and the rest of the particulars.
We'll then fill out the paperwork, and
finalize everything.
Allow for 1/2 hour to 45 minutes for
this visit.
However, rest assured if someone else is appointed to take care of your pet(s) in my absence, they will have to pass my, your and your pets test too. It will be someone that I would trust with the care of my own pet(s). They will follow the same protocol that I do. You will be informed well in advance (unless this was an emergency situation), normally at the booking of your sitting date(s). This person will be a professional and fully insured, like me. We will have arranged for a meet and greet, so that you and your pet(s) are comfortable with them. They will be fully appraised on the excellent treatment, the little extras, and the extra special attention to your pet's particulars that you have come to appreciate from me.
VARIETY OF SERVICESPET SITTING
I offer a variety of visits and walks that you can tailor to your needs. From a quick potty break, to longer visits, extended visits and overnights, you're covered.
PHOTOGRAPHY
I've been photographing animals professionally since the 1990. My photographs have appeared in national magazines, along with accompanying stories. I use the best professional labs for expert processing in digital format that last a lifetime. On location photography. Call for details and pricing information.
DOG GROOMING
As an added benefit to my existing clients, I professionally groom your pet(s) upon
request. Trained and certified, I offer in-home services. Call for details and prices.
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PATIENCE
Every animal is unique, with a different personality. Most will transition easily into the pet sitting routine. Others may take a while to warm up to the idea. Know that I am aware of this and will always be patient with your pet(s). It is my philosophy that with time, patience, positive reinforcement and consistency, we will be able to achieve the results we're looking for. I do not condone hitting or any type of abuse to your pet(s). It should be mentioned here that I will not condone that on your part either. I reserve the right to cancel our contract if I see that your animal is being deliberately abused by you or others within your circle, as I refuse to be a witness to that type of behavior.
Personal statement
I love what I do, and it's in my heart to be connected with animals. I'm in my element while I'm watching them, and they respond to that. I have learned a lot from the animals in my life...my own, the ones I've watched...and the new ones entering my life. I'm very thankful for these lessons, and for your trust and belief that I will absolutely give your animals the best care they can possibly have while you're away.
When someone I know lost her beautiful Labrador 'Free', she said the hardest part of her loss was missing their walks. She said "He got me out". That's so true. They do get you out, don't they? Away from the t.v., the bills, other distractions, and onto a path of meeting others and socializing, or simply breathing some fresh air and enjoying the rest of nature, the day, the evening...life. I feel very privileged to be able to hang with your pet(s) and 'get out'! Thank you!
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COMMENTS REGARDING MY SERVICES
"Mary watched my dog for 5 days and 4 nights. It was my first trip away since I got my dog. Needless to say, my dog was pretty freaked out but Mary was able to calm her down and make her feel like I was still there. Her log was very detailed and showed how she was able to connect with my pet. I'm planning my next trip and now I can go away without any worries about my dog. She's in great hands!"
"Mary is the most compassionate, creative, professional dog photographer I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Her photos of our Emma, the cream standard poodle, have been the subject of greeting cards that are displayed in many countries throughout the world."
"Mary has watched our 3 dogs a few times while we have been out. Both during the day and overnight at our house. We have an elderly dog, a young active dog and a mature dog who is somewhat emotional. All 3 have enjoyed Mary's visits. She took great care of them and when she comes back they love to see her. She is very thorough and considerate. Most importantly she loves dogs."
" I have boarded my dog in the past and upon return, have found him in not the best of health. He would not eat and lost 12 pounds. This year we used Mary. Words can't say enough about how wonderful she is!! She stayed at our house for 12 days. She is very organized. She keeps me updated and even sent me pictures so that I could see how he looked. It was such a relief to come home and see that our dog was as happy and healthy as he was when we left. Mary is wonderful!!! We will continue to use her and feel blessed that we found her!!!"
"Mary is a wonderful dog sitter. My husband and I took a 10 day trip and couldn't imagine boarding our active and spoiled golden for so long. I was very impressed with the long visits, daily walks and plenty of play Mary provided as well as the daily activity & feeding logs, email updates and the very professional manner Mary brings to the job. My neighbors were equally impressed and had many nice things to say. When we missed our flight and were delayed an extra day, Mary continued with her visits because she had not heard from us. We arrived home late in the evening and there Mary was - still watching over my little furhead! I am very happy to have found someone so trustworthy and professional and taking a trip will be much easier knowing I can depend on Mary."
"My fiance and I have pretty unusual schedules. We are absolutely in love with Mary's innate ability to make us and our Labrador puppy feel safe when we are away. She has been able to come to our home on short notice, and we know that our puppy is in the most capable and loving hands possible when we are away! We have recommended her services to many of our friends and family in the area who have pets."
"Mary was great with our two big dogs and our cat while we were on vacation for a week. She spent each night at our house and visited them three times during the day. We were really impressed by how thoroughly Mary prepared for the visit - she got lots of info from us about our routines so that she could keep things as normal as possible. While we were gone she sent us email updates (including photos). In the past when our dogs have stayed with others, the dogs collapse when we got home because they were exhausted by the stress of the experience. This time both dogs were calm and happy. Even our neurotic dog, who is such a mama's hound that she usually won't leave the yard when I'm out of town, was fine. She took several walks with Mary, which is unheard of for this dog. I think my cat is disappointed that we're home. She liked all the special attention she got from Mary."
"Mary watched our 9 cats & 2 parakeets while my fiance & I went out of town for a few days. She has such a love of animals that when my other sitter had to beg off because of injury, Mary took this menagerie on rather short notice. She did such a wonderful job, I don't believe they even noticed we weren't there! They were happy & healthy, just as we had left them. She is just wonderful and the cats really seemed to think so, too!"
"Mary did a great job keeping an eye on my little guys. I really appreciated the update too- gave me piece of mind that my pets where enjoying themselves too and having a bit of a vacation themselves. Thanks again for taking great care!"
THE PHOTO GALLERY
OF MY FURRY, FEATHERY, SCALY FRIENDS
AWWWW
CONTACT ME with your question and I'll post it here on the website. Thank you!
No. There will be no exceptions to this. This not only is a safety precaution in case your dog decided to check out greener pastures, but an insurance issue.
2. Why do you ask for 2 sets of keys (in the contract)?
I'd appreciate your having that done. This can be a back door and a front door key (as long as they both work!). The reason for this is because I'm human. Have you ever locked yourself out of your car or house? Good thing you had the extra set, right?
3. Why do I need to fill out a Vet Authorization form?
Most vets will not treat your animal without your consent. If I can't get a hold of you, (should something happen), we could lose valuable time in giving your animal the necessary treatment. With this form on file, you will have supplied the vet with everything they need in order to proceed with any necessary treatment without delay. Depending on the problem, this can mean the difference between life and death.
4. Do you have insurance?
I am fully insured through the Pet Sitters Associates, LLC, which covers anything from lost keys, veterinarian expenses, personal property (e.g., breakage, fire, mysterious disappearances, and theft), to full coverage for your pets. You can review their information by clicking here.
5. Do you have references?
Yes. Give me a call and I'll arrange for you to speak with others who know me and are familiar with my services. To honor their privacy, I do not give out their information without prior consent. Also, check out the reviews listed above the photo gallery. These were all written by active clients who were generous enough to share their experience.
6. Why is it required that I call you upon my return home?
For vacations, overnights and occasionally on one-time visits, I do require this, as I would have no way of knowing if your pet(s) will be okay. If your flight was delayed, or you were detained for any reason, we'll have to extend the visits or make other arrangements in order to ensure proper care for your pet(s) until your return.
7. Why do you recommend that I start walking my dog with a leash? I always walk him/her off leash.
Because I will be walking him/her with a leash for insurance and safety reasons. This should be introduced by you, well in advance of your leaving. That way, the transition will be easier.
8. Why do you recommend a chain collar or "Illusion Collar"?
Because it is very easy for a dog to slip out of some regular cloth or decorative collars. This is a precaution and a safety concern, so your dog does not get loose. If you get him/her acquainted with it prior to our walks together, it should not pose a problem. I highly recommend "The Dog Whisperer", with Cesar Millan for proper technique on walking your dog, and to check out his product, "Illusion Collar".
9. All of the paperwork seems so official, is all of this really necessary?
Absolutely. The forms that you complete will give me an accurate profile of your pets and your behaviour with them, so I can mimic your routines. Remember, my goal is to make your absence a smooth transition for your pets. Through the course of time, many issues have come up and will continue to come up in regards to the care and protection of pets while their owners are away. Because I take my job very seriously, I try to address each and every one. Some things will not be applicable to you. In addition to enjoying your pets, my job is to take care of them to the best of my ability. I can appreciate that it takes time to develop certain habits and routines with your pet. That's why I'll do my best to make sure that those things that you've carefully laid in place are not upset much, if at all, by your leaving.
10. Do I need to let you know if someone is going to be coming over (cleaning service, lawn care, relatives)?
If you are having a service performed while your pet(s) are in my care, I'll need to know. If it's lawn care, do you allow your pet(s) on the lawn afterwards? If it's a cleaning service, as they have their own set of keys, I don't want to be surprised by someone entering or having already entered upon my return. As I'm responsible for your pet(s) and their safety in your absence, I will not be letting anyone into the home while I'm there...relatives or not, unless this was covered prior to your leaving.
11. Why does my pet need a seat belt or have to be confined to a crate if you transport him/her to the vet or other destination?
This is a safety precaution, so they are secure in the vehicle. It's also a requirement under my insurance policy. Click Here to read about it. At the bottom of the Other Stuff page, I have listed several companies that sell seat belts and/or crates for this purpose.
THINGS TO DO AND INFORM ME OF
I will not conduct the sit without this form completed.
* Make sure that all spare keys work.
* Do you have more than enough food, water (if use bottled), litter, medicine,
treats, toys.
* Location of leash, brush, shampoo, poop bags, carriers, etc.
* Location of food, treats, bowls, etc.
* Location of vacuum, mop, broom and dust pan, rags, towels, etc.
* Garbage Day and location.
* Papers and mail stacked where?
* Lights on timers.
* Vet and Emergency numbers are clearly posted (police, fire dept.).
* Emergency contact numbers (Inclement weather contact person - neighbor).
* Harmful products are up and out of the way.
* Are your plants poisonous to pets? Do a search on the internet to find out.
The ASPCA site has a great informational video to help identify toxic plants.
* While you're at it, here's ASPCA's page on toxic foods for animals.
* Electrical chords and other electrical devices up and out of the way.
* All gates are secured and fences are mended to prevent escape.
* Emergency repair #'s (plumber, electrician, heating and air conditioning,
locksmith).
* Notify neighbors who may be concerned of strange car in driveway.
* Carrier and seat belt for pets transportation.
* Fuse box, water shut off location.
* Email info and number to reach you (cell phone).
* Remember to notify landlord.
* Security system code/info.
* Security guard alerted.
* Fixed anything in disrepair (toilets, sinks, etc).
* Location of thermostat & normal settings.
* Expecting any visitors, maintenance or cleaning services? Let me know and alert
them as well. Do they have a key too?
* Any relatives or friends expected to visit? Let me know. Do they have a key?
* Phrases mentioned on the form - ("I'll be right back" or "Good Girl" or "Want to
go out?", etc.).
* Any habits of eating things besides their food or any other peculiar behavior.
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IN LOVING MEMORY
Always in our hearts
I'm so thankful that I was able to be a part of their lives.
They were so special and will be sorely missed, but
I know how well they were taken care of and loved.
Know that you did a good job while they were in your care.
I have that peace of mind too.
They knew they were loved.
FORMER SATISFIED CLIENTS
CLICK HERE to listen to a comment from "TOONCE" the cat
a former satisfied client.
They may have moved away, but we had some fun together.
I'm thankful for the experience and to have known them.
