FAQ's

For your convenience, we have compiled many of the commonly asked questions and their respective answers. If you have additional questions not covered here, please contact us!

+ What is a meet and greet?

A meet and greet is the initial meeting between a senior team lead with DC Dog Sitter, you, and your pet. Most importantly, it allows you to meet a DC Dog Sitter Team Member to discuss what services are best for you and your pet. It also provides an opportunity to assess your pet's behavioral and emotional quotients.

+ Will DC Dog Sitter train my pet?

No. DC Dog Sitter will administer positive reinforcement for pets in accordance with your training guidelines. Our primary goal is to ensure your pet is safe, happy, and well cared for. If there is a disciplinary problem, your sitter will notify you.

+ What do I need to do if I decide to hire DC Dog Sitter

Approved access to your home will need to be provided. In apartments and condos with a concierge, we most often are able to check a dedicated key out and back in at the front desk. Our preferred method for row houses, town homes, homes, etc. is a digital lock or a lock box. There are several on the market ranging in cost from $10 to over $100. One lock box we have received very positive reviews on is the Master Lock. You may purchase the lock box here. We are also happy to order a lock box for you.

+ What are your qualifications?

DC Dog Sitter is dedicated to providing the best quality care for your beloved companion. We are accredited through the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters as well as licensed, bonded, and insured. Additionally, our entire team is certified in pet first aid and CPR.

+ Do you have an app?

Yes! We utilize the Time to Pet app. The app allows you to conveniently schedule pet care services 24/7 as well as communicate with your Certified Pet Sitter. You may download Time to Pet from the Apple Store or Google Play.

+ How do I know when the sitter is at my home, and if my pet is safe?

Your Professional Pet Care Associate provides a detailed message on our messaging platform, which is able to be viewed on your phone, desktop, notepad, or via the app. We aim to provide you with a personalized pet-sitting service to meet your every need!

+ What areas do you serve?

Currently, we service much of the DC Metro area - primarily within the beltway including Arlington and Alexandria for pet sitting services, adventures, a la carte walks, chauf-fur service, and spa services. Our discounted monthly dog walking packages are currently offered in parts of Arlington and Washington, DC. You may read more about our Dog Walking Service by viewing our service area.

+ What happens if our plans change?**

Life happens and sometimes plans do change. We will do our best to work with you when possible. As we only have a few spaces available at a time, please do your best to adhere to our cancelation policy.

+ Are the walkers and sitters insured and bonded??

Yes! Our team is licensed, insured, and bonded. Additionally, our team is certified in cpr and first aid.

+ Are the dog walkers and sitters trained??

Our team members are trained by managers and experienced staff members.

+ Do you offer services in the mornings, evenings, and weekends??

Yes! We encourage you to reserve services in advance as they are subject to availability.

+ May I request a specific time for my walk??

DC Dog Sitter provides mid-day dog walks between the hours of 10:30am — 3:30pm. We always do our best to honor your specific timing requests, Please note walks are scheduled based on your walker's entire route. Additionally, travel, weather, and normal logistics getting around the city may impact the arrival time. We always do our best to keep you apprised to our timing.

+ Do you offer special pricing packages if my dog gets walked every day??

Yes! We provide discounted dog walks and adventures.

+ What is a group walk?

Mid-day walks are generally composed of two to three dogs who live near each other. We believe in helping to socialize pups and as they are pack animals, this small group setting ensures your dog is able to enjoy a social outing as well as time for exercise and to do their business. Additionally, we work to reinforce leash etiquette.

+ What is your cancellation policy?

We request any cancellations are made forty eight hours in advance of services to avoid any charges. Thank you for understanding.

+ Should I provide a gratuity for my pet sitter?

Being acknowledged for a job well done makes us all feel good. Any gesture you make to let your Professional Pet Sitter know how much you appreciate what they are doing will not be overlooked! A gratuity doesn’t need to be large. It is true that it is the thought that counts.