FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My Services & Rates: Cat Sitting: 30 minutes: $40.00 per visit 45 minutes: $55.00 per visit 60 minutes: $65.00 per visit All rates can be customized to fit your specific needs. I follow a straightforward pricing model: I do not charge per pet; instead, I charge based on my time and per household. So, whether you have 1 cat or 10 cats, the fee is determined by the duration of my visit. Additional Information: As a Certified Professional Pet Sitter, I require a minimum of once-a-day visits for all pet clients. I do not accept every-other-day visits. Service Areas: Desert Whiskers Cat Sitting offers pet sitting services in the following areas: Buckeye Goodyear Litchfield Park, AZ Zip Codes Covered: 85326 85396 85338 85395 85340 Also providing service to: Tartesso Estrella Mountain Canta Mia Verrado Litchfield Farms Palm Valley Please note: I do not provide service to Sun City Festival (out of our service area).
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Initial Contact: I send an email to all new potential clients with a link to fill out their information. The form includes about 5 questions related to: Location Area where they live Types of pets they have Dates of service Meet and Greet (Mandatory): Before any services begin, we schedule a meet and greet. This step is essential and ensures a smooth experience. It’s best to plan ahead before your travel dates, as I do not accept last-minute requests. The meet and greet is a one-time visit, unless you acquire a new pet later on. During the Meet & Greet: I meet with you and your pets in person. My goal is to let your pets get to know me and ensure they feel comfortable. We discuss: Scheduling: We go over the dates and times for pet visits. Pet Details: I learn about your pet’s routine, quirks, and preferences. This includes where they eat, drink, use the litter box, and sleep. Paperwork: We review any paperwork you’ve entered on the portal (which should be completed prior to the meet & greet). Access: I collect keys, door codes, and any necessary deposits. Duration of Meet & Greet: A typical meet & greet lasts about 30 minutes to an hour. Please plan accordingly for this time. After Each Visit: After every pet visit, you’ll receive a text message from me with an update and pictures. Rest assured that your pets are always provided with the best care during my visits.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Education and Training: Animal Science & Animal Behavior: Your educational background in animal science and behavior provides a solid foundation for understanding pet needs and behavior. Experience: 40+ Years of Paid Experience: Your wealth of experience spanning over four decades demonstrates your commitment and expertise in pet care. Continuous Learning: Online Courses and In-Person Seminars: Staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices through online courses and seminars ensures that you provide the highest quality care to your clients’ pets. Certifications: First Aid/CPR Training for Pets: Your certification in first aid and CPR ensures that you’re prepared to handle emergencies and keep pets safe. Fear Free Certified: Your commitment to reducing stress and anxiety in pets during their care is commendable. Certified Professional Pet Sitter (Pet Sitters International and National Association of Pet Sitters): These certifications validate your professionalism and dedication to pet sitting. Specialized Knowledge: Cat Health and Care: Your expertise in feline health and well-being ensures that cats receive optimal care. Dog Health and Care: Although you no longer accept dogs, your knowledge of dog health and care adds to your comprehensive skill set. Small Animal Health and Care: Your ability to care for small exotic animals is valuable for clients with diverse pets. Basic Obedience for Dogs: Your past experience with dog obedience training showcases your versatility. Additional Skills: Agility Training: Your familiarity with agility training adds an extra dimension to your services. Socialization: Understanding the importance of socialization helps pets thrive in various environments. Professional Memberships: PSI (Pet Sitters International) NAPPS (National Association of Pet Sitters) PUPS (Professional United Pet Sitters) American Pet Professionals BBB (Better Business Bureau)