FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I price each job on a case-by-case basis. I believe in affordable and accessible pet care, and I stand by that. If you need to broker a deal with me so you can afford to go on vacation, I'm willing to have that conversation. In terms of average costs, just so you have an idea of what to expect, 1 dog or 1 cat without special needs or behavioral concerns that doesn't live super far away from me typically runs around $10 per visit. That includes at least 30-45 minutes of play, exercise, feeding, and cuddles, if not more.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I first want to make sure that they know who I am and how I can make them comfortable. Being a pet parent myself, I fully recognize how hiring someone off of the Internet to take care of loved ones can be nerve-wracking. I then want to get to know their pets, their pet's needs, and how long I'll be taking care of them. Needs include feeding, exercising, socializing, playing, training, handling, cleaning, special-needs, behavioral concerns, and anything else I should know. I also find out their regular vet, their local emergency vet, and how much contact and check-ins they want from me (checks-ins are a free add-on, by the way). Then, we work out the details, i.e. bringing in mail (another free service), how to exchange the key, how to get in the apartment if applicable, etc.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I went to the School of Environmental Studies, which is affiliated with the world-class Minnesota Zoo. While I was there, I participated in a special program that allowed me to help take care of and provide enrichment for all of the zoo animals, including but not limited to: snow monkeys, Asian wild horses, tapirs, sloths, bears, tigers (oh my!), giraffes, macaws and parrots, musk ox, takin, sharks, sea turtles, armadillos, and more! In terms of formal education, I received a year of farm animal husbandry from my college, which complements the experience I have with farm animals both before and after the training. I also received more informal training from my vet in administering medication, including topical, oral, subcutaneous, and intramuscular injections. I have over 10 years of experience with administering medication.