FAQ

Why Use a Pet Sitter?
  • In-home pet sitting is an excellent pet care alternative for your pets--mainly, your pet gets to remain in his/her own, disease-free environment!
  • No need to impose on family and friends.
  • It is stress free and cost-effective.
  • It is an added safety for your home while you are away, as house-sitting is included.
  • You can enjoy Peace-of-Mind Vacations.
  • Long hours away from home are less stressful.
  • New puppies with additional needs for care and exercise can receive the attention and help they need to grow into well-trained, well-behaved adult dogs.
  • Owners who are sick, injured or temporarily hospitalized have one less thing to worry about knowing their pets are in loving, caring hands.  

Can my pet stay on a meds schedule?

Annie's will administer some medications at no extra cost.  Added costs may apply for extra time and care in special situations.


How do I know I can trust someone in my home?

Great question and one I have asked when hiring a pet sitter myself!  Annie's (and all subsequent employees) are fully bonded and insured for your peace of mind and protection. It pays to hire a professional.


What if I am not able to get home at the planned time?

Call Annie's and someone will continue the pet sitting visits until informed otherwise.


How far in advance should I schedule with Annie's?

As soon as you know your schedule, you should call.  Holidays are especially busy for pet sitters, so get your timeslot scheduled early! Two weeks is advised.


What if I need to cancel my appointment?

If someone from Annie's is already en route to your home, you will be charged for the visit.  Otherwise, just give 24 hours notice if at all possible and there will be no fee. We realize that "stuff happens."


Will Annie's take care of my home in my absence?

If you are gone for more than 8 hours, Annie's will bring in mail, alternate lights, alternate shades, bring in the newspaper, bring in deliveries, etc.  All of this is included at no extra cost!


How many visits will Annie's make in one day?

It really depends on your pet's needs and your pocketbook.  Annie's will make up to 3 visits per 24 hour period and if there is a dog in the family, no less than 2 visits per 24 hour period--it's just not healthy for the doggie and it's unfair to your furry family member.

Please note:

Annie's recommends 3 visits per day for dogs 8 years and older (for they are considered elderly at this point and undue stress on the urinary tract is harmful).

Annie's will do no less than 1 daily visits for cats.

Annie's insists on 3 visits per day for crated dogs.


What are Annie's hours of operation?

Annie's will visit your pet as early as 6:00 a.m. and as late as 8:30 p.m.

Daily dog walking ideally takes place during the hours of 10 and 2, depending on your preference and Annie's schedule.


What is the difference between a Dog Walk, a Pet Visit and a Potty Break?

A Dog Walk is a short walk around your neighborhood, waste disposal, etc., all within 30 minutes. ($20)

A Pet Visit is approximately 20 minutes and involves feeding, fresh water, TLC, play time and a potty break in your yard.  ($18)

A Potty Break is just that--a chance to relieve him/herself, a snack, guaranteed TLC, a little playtime...all in few minutes. ($12)


Do you have references?

 Yes, call me for specific names and numbers!


Does Annie's have more than one employee or can I always expect to receive services from Annie herself?

As Annie's Pet Sitting has grown, there has been an increasing need for extra hands. Kenneth VanHook is "husband and helper, at large" and will cover Annie in the case of an emergency. During busy seasons, there may be an independent contractor who will lend a paw (cheesy joke, sorry), but anyone who is employed by Annie's Pet Sitting will go through a rigorous interview and background check. The person will also need to have a background of pet care and must be passionate about loving and caring for pets. The person will be personally oriented by Annie and, if you request, will be introduced to you. ALL EMPLOYEES ARE BONDED AND INSURED by Annie's Pet Sitting under Insurers of the Carolinas.