Frequently Asked Questions:
Do you provide care for puppies?
Yes, we do. We do have to charge a special rate for this service, because puppies are more work, more cleanup and more care. Some are not housebroken, some only partially housebroken. Some chew on things, some are full of energy and need tons of exercise. Some don't have any doggy manners yet and need additional supervision. See our services page for additional details.
What is the New Client Interview for?
This is where you bring your dogs for an initial visit prior to services. It has a two-fold application, it's a two-way street so to speak. This is where we meet, you get a chance to see where your pets would stay and to see if our place will work for you and your pets. But, it is also an opportunity for us to evaluate you and your pets to see if we think your pets would be a good fit for us. Not all dogs that interview here are invited to stay.
Yes, we do cater to pets that have unique personalities and challenges, but that doesn't mean we'll take on the care of a pet that clearly exhibits behaviors that put us in imminent danger. If you have a pet, for example, that is a known biter, please consider boarding them at a facility that has a qualified trainer on staff to deal with these dangerous behaviors. Or, you have a pet that is way past the need for a serious haircut and nail trim, then consider boarding them at a facility that has a groomer on staff. Our specialty is pets that don't board well for like separation anxiety or fear of thunder, maybe they are old and need a cushy spot to rest, they need meds every 3 hours or are really little and need special attention. We also focus on nutritional support and private daycare for those that just want a home like atmosphere for their pets.
Can we check out your facility?
Yes, just give us a call to arrange a time. And, we really don't have a facility. Your pets stay in our home since the type of care we provide is less structured than what you would find at a traditional boarding kennel. That is one of the main differences between us and the other local facilities is that we are NOT a facility, but a home, with a home atmosphere and comfort level that appeals to some dogs that typically don't board well.
Can I get photo updates of my pet while in your care?
Yes, you can. Just ask, they will be sent via text to the number of your choosing. Just keep in mind, we are running a pet services business and as such, we can get busy with your pets or others. So, a couple pics a day are not out of the question, but hourly updates are.
Just what is 'Cage Free Boarding'?
Cage free boarding is just what it sounds like. We don't operate a boarding facility here. There are no concrete runs, no clinical looking enclosures. Your pets stay in our homes with us. They hang out with us just like they would with you in your own home. They can get on the sofa, curl up in a chair, enjoy a cozy dog bed or even a crate if they are so inclined. They have constant companionship and can play in our enclosed play area with other dogs, or not, depending on their level of comfort. This kind of home environment is less stressful to your pet and may be critical to those that don't board well for whatever reason. Because we do such personalized care, the number of pets we can care for at any one time is limited, so book ahead if you would like your pet to stay with us for an extended period of time, like a vacation or trip.
Do you board cats?
Yes, we can, but not always. Cats, to begin with, do not board well. They do better in their own home environment. Please consider pet sitting services for your cats instead of boarding. You can learn more about pet sitting on the services page or read more below in the FAQ. If you absolutely must board your cat, please call to see if we have availability.
What will my pet be doing while boarding or day caring with you?
If you have ever boarded or day cared your pet before, then you know. They will be doing the same thing. Walks & playtime, which is determined by the level of energy and age of your pet. There are set feeding times, quiet times and activity times, as any other pet services place would have. We also add things such as: fun movie time, gaming sessions, hanging out in the garden, walking in the woods, checking out the local trails and more. It varies, depending on how much exercise and activity your pet likes. We also offer a/c cooled areas to crash and comfy sofas to hang out on.
Do you have a cancellation fee?
Yes, we typically do. We know the world is full of uncertainties, changes. If you need to cancel a scheduled booking, give us as much notice as possible, we will work with you on this and try to be as flexible as possible with everyone. We are a small business and if we have booked a space for your dog, then we have had to probably turn someone else away. Please keep that in mind when just not showing up for a booking.
How do you accept payment?
Cash or Venmo? We don't take personal checks, unless you are a regular long-standing client, that lives local. It's just easier to do Venmo or hit the local ATM and bring cash.
Why do you offer cage free boarding?
Many pets do not board well. Maybe they are not other dog friendly. Maybe the stress of a large facility, with barking dogs and such would be too much for them. Maybe they are little dogs or seniors that need special care, medications, or have disabilities. Perhaps your dog is a recreational barker, has separation anxiety or is recovering from surgery. Maybe you would just prefer your dog be in a home like environment as opposed to a conventional boarding facility. Maybe knowing your pet is just hanging out in a home environment puts your mind at rest and allows you to better enjoy your own time away.
What is pet sitting? (Otherwise known as dog walking).
Pet sitting is where we come into your home while you are away and take your dogs out to use the potty, give them fresh water, take them for a walk, feed them, give them medications or a variety of things, depending on what you would like done. It allows your dog or cat to obtain care while you are at work, at the hospital or on the road. No more coming home to 'accidents' on the floor because your pup needed to relieve himself. No more coming home and having to clean that litter box. We provide a wide variety of services so that the time you have with your pet is quality time. It's the best of both worlds for the pet. They get a new friend, someone to take them for walks and play with while you are gone. And, when you come home in the evening, your pet is happier, healthier and more relaxed and less stressed out. What could be better?
Do you offer care for 'Excluded or Dangerous Breeds' according to most homeowners policies, like Doberman's, Rotties, Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, etc?
Yes, we do. With the understanding that the pet owner is responsible for any damages caused by their pets. This really goes for all dogs, not just 'so called' dangerous breeds. Pet owners are responsible for damages caused by their pets, to us, other dogs, etc. We don't breed discriminate. We have found that dogs, like people are individuals and any can cause damage or bite under any given circumstances. We can decide not to care for your pet, if he exhibits aggression towards us or does extensive damage, regardless of if he's a big old German Shepherd or an itty bitty Yorkshire Terrier.
Why are you certified and trained? Can't just anyone do a pet sit for my pet? How hard can it be?
A trained professional pet sitter knows so much more than 'your neighbor's kid' or well meaning friend when it comes to providing responsible pet care. We are not only trained professional business people who are liability insured and bonded, background checked, certified in pet first aid & CPR, we are also dedicated to your pets. We take part in continuing education classes and workshops, expos and conferences to stay up to date on the latest trends with pet care, food, pet behavior, training and more. For us, this is our business, its not a hobby.
For example, when we come into your home, we are vigilant to see if your home has been invaded in any way. We personally check each animal in our care. Do they look fine? We are trained to detect health problems by knowing the warning signs of a host of pet illnesses and diseases. If there is a problem, we instantly know who to call, where to take the pet and how to get them there. We carry first aid kits in our vehicles, we know how to use them. We know who your vet is and how to reach them and we have already obtained vet authorization from you to get that care. But its more than that. We are not just animal lovers. It's easy to say, I love animals so I want to take care of them. That would be like an ordinary person saying, I love people so I want to help them if they are sick. You can't help them if you don't have the proper training and expertise. THAT is what you get with a trained professional pet sitter. Reliable, trained professional care, from a background checked, liability insured, bonded individual who takes very seriously their job as a pet care provider. Someone who gets additional training all the time, who is active in the pet care industry, who belongs to organizations that provide that training, that expertise, that level of professionalism that only comes with a Certified Professional Pet Sitter. For more info on professional pet sitters, check out Pet Sitter's International online at www.petsit.com.
Do you provide care for dogs that are unfixed?
We can, but sometimes we can't. Depends on current bookings. An unaltered animal has special needs. For example, many people do not know that their unaltered male will typically not fit into a pack of altered pets. The other dogs in the pack may not accept and can even feel threatened by the fact that your pet is unfixed. Causes fights and stress amongst the other animals. Even if your pet is the most laid back, happy go lucky dog of all time, just the fact that he is unaltered will make him a target for other dogs, both male & female. If you pet is an unfixed female, sometimes just your leaving her in a different environment will bring on a heat. I know, its happened here multiple times. This has caused not only stress for your pet, but extra clean up and care here in our home as well.
Bottom line is: If we have room, we can accommodate your pet, but they typically have to be kept separate and not integrate with the other pets here. So, unless you are a professional breeder, please consider having your pet spayed or neutered.
What are some things I can do as a pet parent that would make pet sitting or cage free boarding with you easier and better for my pet?
Whether you get care from me or someone else, here are some tips that will make our jobs easier and your pet so much happier... Teach your pet to walk/pee and poop on a leash. We love to walk dogs here, but our policy is, everyone on a leash. So, even if you let your dog go 'free-styling' at home, at least teach them basic leash skills so we can walk them well, take them places and keep them safely on a leash. And, teach them to pee and poop on leash. Yes, it's important. We have fenced areas, but being comfortable doing their business on a leash is a good skill. Introduce your dog to a crate. Although we seldom use them, we have them here and knowing that a crate is a safe place they can return to, to curl up in, to cuddle in without stress and anxiety, is a great skill. Be sure to bring enough food and treats. Sometimes an extra treat or two helps your dog feel at home in a new environment. Make sure your pet is UTD on shots and such and free of fleas & ticks. If we discover fleas or ticks on your pet, we will have to take appropriate measures to not only treat them, but our homes as well. Better for you to do it yourself, however you feel comfortable and with whatever you typically use than for us to have to treat them at your expense. Last but not least, your pet will probably act differently for us than they do in your home. Everyone says, 'My dog is great'. If your dog has special issues, be sure to tell us. Don't let us find out by surprise for example, that they don't like their tail touched which could result in a bite to us. We don't mind dogs with special needs, in fact, we welcome them, just let us know what they are.
Do you provide care for puppies?
Yes, we do. We do have to charge a special rate for this service, because puppies are more work, more cleanup and more care. Some are not housebroken, some only partially housebroken. Some chew on things, some are full of energy and need tons of exercise. Some don't have any doggy manners yet and need additional supervision. See our services page for additional details.
What is the New Client Interview for?
This is where you bring your dogs for an initial visit prior to services. It has a two-fold application, it's a two-way street so to speak. This is where we meet, you get a chance to see where your pets would stay and to see if our place will work for you and your pets. But, it is also an opportunity for us to evaluate you and your pets to see if we think your pets would be a good fit for us. Not all dogs that interview here are invited to stay.
Yes, we do cater to pets that have unique personalities and challenges, but that doesn't mean we'll take on the care of a pet that clearly exhibits behaviors that put us in imminent danger. If you have a pet, for example, that is a known biter, please consider boarding them at a facility that has a qualified trainer on staff to deal with these dangerous behaviors. Or, you have a pet that is way past the need for a serious haircut and nail trim, then consider boarding them at a facility that has a groomer on staff. Our specialty is pets that don't board well for like separation anxiety or fear of thunder, maybe they are old and need a cushy spot to rest, they need meds every 3 hours or are really little and need special attention. We also focus on nutritional support and private daycare for those that just want a home like atmosphere for their pets.
Can we check out your facility?
Yes, just give us a call to arrange a time. And, we really don't have a facility. Your pets stay in our home since the type of care we provide is less structured than what you would find at a traditional boarding kennel. That is one of the main differences between us and the other local facilities is that we are NOT a facility, but a home, with a home atmosphere and comfort level that appeals to some dogs that typically don't board well.
Can I get photo updates of my pet while in your care?
Yes, you can. Just ask, they will be sent via text to the number of your choosing. Just keep in mind, we are running a pet services business and as such, we can get busy with your pets or others. So, a couple pics a day are not out of the question, but hourly updates are.
Just what is 'Cage Free Boarding'?
Cage free boarding is just what it sounds like. We don't operate a boarding facility here. There are no concrete runs, no clinical looking enclosures. Your pets stay in our homes with us. They hang out with us just like they would with you in your own home. They can get on the sofa, curl up in a chair, enjoy a cozy dog bed or even a crate if they are so inclined. They have constant companionship and can play in our enclosed play area with other dogs, or not, depending on their level of comfort. This kind of home environment is less stressful to your pet and may be critical to those that don't board well for whatever reason. Because we do such personalized care, the number of pets we can care for at any one time is limited, so book ahead if you would like your pet to stay with us for an extended period of time, like a vacation or trip.
Do you board cats?
Yes, we can, but not always. Cats, to begin with, do not board well. They do better in their own home environment. Please consider pet sitting services for your cats instead of boarding. You can learn more about pet sitting on the services page or read more below in the FAQ. If you absolutely must board your cat, please call to see if we have availability.
What will my pet be doing while boarding or day caring with you?
If you have ever boarded or day cared your pet before, then you know. They will be doing the same thing. Walks & playtime, which is determined by the level of energy and age of your pet. There are set feeding times, quiet times and activity times, as any other pet services place would have. We also add things such as: fun movie time, gaming sessions, hanging out in the garden, walking in the woods, checking out the local trails and more. It varies, depending on how much exercise and activity your pet likes. We also offer a/c cooled areas to crash and comfy sofas to hang out on.
Do you have a cancellation fee?
Yes, we typically do. We know the world is full of uncertainties, changes. If you need to cancel a scheduled booking, give us as much notice as possible, we will work with you on this and try to be as flexible as possible with everyone. We are a small business and if we have booked a space for your dog, then we have had to probably turn someone else away. Please keep that in mind when just not showing up for a booking.
How do you accept payment?
Cash or Venmo? We don't take personal checks, unless you are a regular long-standing client, that lives local. It's just easier to do Venmo or hit the local ATM and bring cash.
Why do you offer cage free boarding?
Many pets do not board well. Maybe they are not other dog friendly. Maybe the stress of a large facility, with barking dogs and such would be too much for them. Maybe they are little dogs or seniors that need special care, medications, or have disabilities. Perhaps your dog is a recreational barker, has separation anxiety or is recovering from surgery. Maybe you would just prefer your dog be in a home like environment as opposed to a conventional boarding facility. Maybe knowing your pet is just hanging out in a home environment puts your mind at rest and allows you to better enjoy your own time away.
What is pet sitting? (Otherwise known as dog walking).
Pet sitting is where we come into your home while you are away and take your dogs out to use the potty, give them fresh water, take them for a walk, feed them, give them medications or a variety of things, depending on what you would like done. It allows your dog or cat to obtain care while you are at work, at the hospital or on the road. No more coming home to 'accidents' on the floor because your pup needed to relieve himself. No more coming home and having to clean that litter box. We provide a wide variety of services so that the time you have with your pet is quality time. It's the best of both worlds for the pet. They get a new friend, someone to take them for walks and play with while you are gone. And, when you come home in the evening, your pet is happier, healthier and more relaxed and less stressed out. What could be better?
Do you offer care for 'Excluded or Dangerous Breeds' according to most homeowners policies, like Doberman's, Rotties, Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, etc?
Yes, we do. With the understanding that the pet owner is responsible for any damages caused by their pets. This really goes for all dogs, not just 'so called' dangerous breeds. Pet owners are responsible for damages caused by their pets, to us, other dogs, etc. We don't breed discriminate. We have found that dogs, like people are individuals and any can cause damage or bite under any given circumstances. We can decide not to care for your pet, if he exhibits aggression towards us or does extensive damage, regardless of if he's a big old German Shepherd or an itty bitty Yorkshire Terrier.
Why are you certified and trained? Can't just anyone do a pet sit for my pet? How hard can it be?
A trained professional pet sitter knows so much more than 'your neighbor's kid' or well meaning friend when it comes to providing responsible pet care. We are not only trained professional business people who are liability insured and bonded, background checked, certified in pet first aid & CPR, we are also dedicated to your pets. We take part in continuing education classes and workshops, expos and conferences to stay up to date on the latest trends with pet care, food, pet behavior, training and more. For us, this is our business, its not a hobby.
For example, when we come into your home, we are vigilant to see if your home has been invaded in any way. We personally check each animal in our care. Do they look fine? We are trained to detect health problems by knowing the warning signs of a host of pet illnesses and diseases. If there is a problem, we instantly know who to call, where to take the pet and how to get them there. We carry first aid kits in our vehicles, we know how to use them. We know who your vet is and how to reach them and we have already obtained vet authorization from you to get that care. But its more than that. We are not just animal lovers. It's easy to say, I love animals so I want to take care of them. That would be like an ordinary person saying, I love people so I want to help them if they are sick. You can't help them if you don't have the proper training and expertise. THAT is what you get with a trained professional pet sitter. Reliable, trained professional care, from a background checked, liability insured, bonded individual who takes very seriously their job as a pet care provider. Someone who gets additional training all the time, who is active in the pet care industry, who belongs to organizations that provide that training, that expertise, that level of professionalism that only comes with a Certified Professional Pet Sitter. For more info on professional pet sitters, check out Pet Sitter's International online at www.petsit.com.
Do you provide care for dogs that are unfixed?
We can, but sometimes we can't. Depends on current bookings. An unaltered animal has special needs. For example, many people do not know that their unaltered male will typically not fit into a pack of altered pets. The other dogs in the pack may not accept and can even feel threatened by the fact that your pet is unfixed. Causes fights and stress amongst the other animals. Even if your pet is the most laid back, happy go lucky dog of all time, just the fact that he is unaltered will make him a target for other dogs, both male & female. If you pet is an unfixed female, sometimes just your leaving her in a different environment will bring on a heat. I know, its happened here multiple times. This has caused not only stress for your pet, but extra clean up and care here in our home as well.
Bottom line is: If we have room, we can accommodate your pet, but they typically have to be kept separate and not integrate with the other pets here. So, unless you are a professional breeder, please consider having your pet spayed or neutered.
What are some things I can do as a pet parent that would make pet sitting or cage free boarding with you easier and better for my pet?
Whether you get care from me or someone else, here are some tips that will make our jobs easier and your pet so much happier... Teach your pet to walk/pee and poop on a leash. We love to walk dogs here, but our policy is, everyone on a leash. So, even if you let your dog go 'free-styling' at home, at least teach them basic leash skills so we can walk them well, take them places and keep them safely on a leash. And, teach them to pee and poop on leash. Yes, it's important. We have fenced areas, but being comfortable doing their business on a leash is a good skill. Introduce your dog to a crate. Although we seldom use them, we have them here and knowing that a crate is a safe place they can return to, to curl up in, to cuddle in without stress and anxiety, is a great skill. Be sure to bring enough food and treats. Sometimes an extra treat or two helps your dog feel at home in a new environment. Make sure your pet is UTD on shots and such and free of fleas & ticks. If we discover fleas or ticks on your pet, we will have to take appropriate measures to not only treat them, but our homes as well. Better for you to do it yourself, however you feel comfortable and with whatever you typically use than for us to have to treat them at your expense. Last but not least, your pet will probably act differently for us than they do in your home. Everyone says, 'My dog is great'. If your dog has special issues, be sure to tell us. Don't let us find out by surprise for example, that they don't like their tail touched which could result in a bite to us. We don't mind dogs with special needs, in fact, we welcome them, just let us know what they are.
Angel's with Furry Souls, 567 Victory Rd., East Burke, VT 05832 802-745-9250 angelswithfurrysouls@gmail.com