Shawna's
DOG LIFE Canine professional Breeder of The CMDR Colorado Mountain Dogs
Rocky Mountain Companion Dogs, LLC
Frequently asked questions about Petsitting+ PLUS
These are some of the most common questions I've gotten through the years. Answering them is always a little tricky because I would answer every question with the following statement: Every Dog is different, every dog's environment is different, and every dog will go through changes in its lifetime. And then I would proceed into a personally tailored but long-winded proclamation that would make your eyes glaze over. I've done my best to simplify the answers, but because Every Dog is different, every dog's environment is different, and every dog will go through changes in its lifetime, I've expanded my answers to address some of the nuances that I feel you deserve to know.
Rates and services
For all questions about the ROVER app, policies or procedures, click here.
What do you charge for overnight petsitting? I charge $75 per night for the first pet, and $10 each additional pet be it horse or Hamster. Additional fees for travel distance may apply. My rates are listed on Rover. I have the ability to adjust rates, add additional services or issue promotional discounts.
What is the PLUS in Petsitting+Plus? You can bundle services like training and grooming with your petsitting service. I use only the highest quality products for bathing and grooming. I bring all equipment necessary including a tub for up to 90 lb. dogs. Enrichment activities include scent spaces, licky snuffle mat parties, obstacle courses, trips to SNIFFSPOTS, massage and aromatherapy.
Do I HAVE TO book through Rover? Generally, YES. I so much more prefer to use Rover for payments, booking and liability reasons. If I DO agree to provide services privately, it is considerably more expensive.
What is your DAYCARE like and how much is it? I spend 2-4 hours hours with your dog engaged in structured activities. We will determine the best way to add quality to your dog's hours away from you through enrichment, car rides, SNIFF SPOT visits, massage and aromatherapy or anything you suggest will be taken into consideration.
What are your DROP-IN VISITS like and how much are they? DROP-INS are $25 for half hour increments. . I come to your home and provide a potty break, snack time and water check lasting up to 30 minutes. 1 Hour bookings can include a 20 min. walk
What is your DOG WALK service like and how much is it? DOG WALKS can include up to 3 dogs depending on size and manners of course. It is $25 for a half hour walk and $10 each additional dog. I DO have weight restrictions of 80 lbs but I do reserve the right to refuse OR ACCEPT any dog on the basis of behavior. Leash reactive or aggressive dogs are not accepted for DOG WALKS, but I will work diligently to make the most of drop in services for these dogs. Note that I cannot provide a consistent dog-walking service as PETSITTING is my most popular service. Travel time often makes this impossible.
What if I cancel or change my trip plans? Can I get a refund? Rover lets me set my own cancellation policy and they handle the financial aspect in regards to physically returning your funds. My cancellation policy is: If you cancel prior to one week before our booking, a full refund will be issued. If you cancel within 3 days of our booking you will receive a 50% refund. If you cancel the day of, no refund will be issued. HOWEVER, i will manually adjust our next booking to credit you a certain percentage for the next booking. If you alter your booking within 3 days or, you will still be charged for the original booking. If you alter your booking prior to 3 days of the booking, a full refund will be given for the days you dropped from the booking.
Questions about PETSITTING+ PLUS policies
My dog doesn't do well alone for long periods of time. What is your "away" policy? 4 hours. But it depends greatly on the needs and regular schedule of the pets, For some dogs that are used to being alone the majority of the day, my presence 24/7 can cause stress and unease. I will always strive to stay in consistent schedule with the pet's normal day-to-day schedule.
Can you administer medications? Yes. I can administer pill and sub-Q such as insulin or vitB therapy. I am familiar and versed in the side effects of most common use medications. I will take of the complete health history of your pets during our Meet N Greet. I encourage folks to use Rover's health care instructions section to keep a digital record of instructions. I once watched a puppy that ate his instructions before I even arrived - so its nice to have a backup available.
What do you do in case you have an emergency or leave the petsitting early for an unforeseen reason? You will be contacted by phone text and email simultaneously. The first person in my "emergency response" team is my husband David. He will not be able to spend 24/7 with your pets, but will provide chekc-ins until my 2nd in line of backup arrives. This 2nd is the person I have asked you to provide that can take the animals in case of wildfire evacuation or similar emergency. The 3rd in line is your veterinarian or local trusted boarding kennel.
Do you have breed, age or size restrictions? What kind of animals are you qualified to care for? Nope. No restrictions other then the ones I would set on a case by case basis. I am qualified to care for most domestic pets: dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, salt and fresh water fish tanks, Koi ponds, horses, goats, cows, pigs, poultry and hobby fowl.
What are your bio-security protocols? Mostly determined by your specifications. If you ask I do not wear my shoes inside I will not. I strive to leave everything cleaner than I found it. I will do an exit cleaning that includes disinfecting off all personal hygiene surfaces, wash and dry of sheets and towels and a light sweep/mop/vacuum as needed. I am current with all CDC vaccinations including COV19 and seaosnal flu.
Is there anything I can provide that would make your stay more comfortable? Your pet's comfort is my primary concern, so leave them extra treats and chew toys. Other than that? - Coffee. I love coffee. I generally bring my own groceries and sundries. I like to cook so if there are any conditions to using pots and pans let me know. I also like to watch TV, appreciate a sunny spot to read or work on my current craft project.