Ideal Visits Archives

What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need For My Kitten?

July 24, 2018/0 Comments/in Cat Care, Ideal Visits/by Liana Waddy

Are you going out of town but are worried about your kitten? Kittens are the cutest but they need a lot of attention and have a knack for getting in trouble when they are alone! It is important that you arrange pet sitting visits that work well for your kitten to make sure she gets plenty of playtime, cuddles and supervision that she needs.

Kitten Option #1

This is an ideal schedule for social kittens that sleep in the bed with you.

30 Mid-Day Visit

Your sitter will arrive and check up on your kitten. She will start out with lots of cuddles and playtime while checking to make sure your kitten did not get in to anything. She can give her fresh food and water, alternate her toys and send you an update so you know your kitten is doing great! This visit is a nice way to break up the day so she is not home alone for so long.

12 Hour Extended Overnight Stay

Your sitter will arrive around 7pm and spend the evening giving your kitten lots of cuddles and playtime. These generally alternate and sometimes there are catnaps in between! Some kittens have an evening routine or just really like to play now that it is dark outside. When your kitten is ready, you sitter will settle down for the night wherever you (and your kitten) think is best. If your kitten sleeps with a specific member of the family, then she would probably prefer to have someone in that bed to keep the routine the same. In the morning your sitter will go through the regular schedule of feeding, playtime, litter box cleaning, cleaning out water bowls and generally setting your kitten up for the day.

Kitten Option #2

This is a good schedule for kittens who like to get some extra attention.

1 Hour Breakfast Visit

Your sitter arrives in the morning for breakfast and playtime! Or maybe she prefers a warm lap to cuddle with for awhile. Your sitter will take care of breakfast, cleaning the litter box, giving your car fresh water and then will settle in for some more playtime to tire your kitten out! Does she have the morning zoomies? Then a good play session with your cat’s favorite toys is in order! Your sitter will send you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your cat has company. Before leaving, your sitter settles your kitten in for the day and makes sure she is comfortable.

1 Hour Dinner Visit

Your sitter will arrive around dinner time. Your kitten will be ready for some more playtime and cuddles, as well as dinner! This is also a great visit for your sitter to bring in the mail, put out trash for the morning pickup, and any other small tasks that need to be done. At the end of the visit your sitter will make sure your kitten is comfortable for the evening. Some kittens like their beds arranged a certain way or a heating blanket turned on for them.

Kitten Option #3

This is a good schedule for kittens who have shorter playtimes.

30 Minute Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive in the morning and will check on your kitten. She will undoubtedly want some playtime and cuddles first thing! Then your sitter will feed her, clean the litter box and send you and update so you know your kitten is doing great! 3 visits a day is perfect for kittens who like to play for a short period then take a nap for awhile.

30 Minute Mid-Day Visit

Mid-day playtime! Your kitten has had a nap and is ready to go! Your sitter can give her cuddles and keep her playing until she is nice and tired for the afternoon.

30 Minute Dinner Visit

Your sitter will finish out the day with playtime, feeding, water and litter box. There will be a few moments for bringing in the mail and turning on some lights so your home appears lived in. Your sitter can send you an update and let you know how the visits went with a cute picture!

Our Considerations for Kittens

For kittens, there are some very specific steps we take to keep them as safe and happy possible.

Kittens that are left loose in the house can get into a lot of trouble. We recommend kittens be kept in a single room when unattended to make sure they stay safe.
Kittens can make a mess of their food and water (and everything else). Your sitter will need access to cleaning supplies you prefer in case they are needed.
When scheduling visits, consider when your kitten is the most active. Some kittens play all the time, but most sleep during a chunk of the day. We want to have our visits coincide with the times that your kitten is naturally awake and active to make the most of that time and so we can supervise as much of her waking time as possible.
If you have litter mates kittens, they often entertain each other and will not need as much playtime with a sitter. Then again, they can get in more trouble, so it depends on the kittens.
If you are taking a long trip you want to make sure you have plenty of visits. Kittens can get especially lonely and people often assume they are self-sufficient and do not schedule as many visits as they would puppies. Kittens do use a litter box, but they still need a lot of interaction and companionship to be happy and healthy.

Time to Customize!

We want to work with you to set up the best possible schedule for your kitten, so you are all happy during your trip. We also know that each home is different, and a lot of people have more than just one pet! After you have the basic idea of your schedule we sit down to figure out the nitty-gritty:

Are there any other pets in the home that need feeding, medication, etc? We make sure your visit has enough time to get everything done.
We have time to clean out food and water bowls, clean up any messes, etc.
Many people who love animals, also love plants! Short visits do not have a lot of time for plants. If you need the sitter to water more than 1-2 plants, we will need to schedule a longer visit for those days. If you have beautiful summer gardens, then we need to see how long they take to water and add that on to your normal visits.
Household tasks such as; bringing in the newspaper, collecting the mail, turning lights off and on and taking out the trash. This can all be done on your normal schedule.
Do you want updates every visit? Many clients do, just keep in mind that your sitter will take a couple minutes to send an update.
Keep in mind that it will take a sitter a bit longer to get the work done than it takes you. Especially if you have extensive routines for your pets and home. You have had years to perfect your system! We always try to make sure your pet sitter will have enough time for everything. That way they will not feel stressed and your pets will receive the focus they deserve.

Work With Us to Keep Your Kitten Happy While You are Gone!

Set Up Your Appointment!

What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need for My Rabbit?

July 24, 2018/1 Comment/in Ideal Visits, Pet Care/by Liana Waddy

Are you going out of town but are worried about your rabbit? House rabbits are becoming more popular as people realize just how smart they are and how rabbits can make amazing house pets. We are seeing more clients that have a rabbit as their only pet, and we want to make sure they receive the best care when you go out of town. Rabbits need to be watched by someone knowledgeable about their behavior, how to hold and handle them, and what health signs to watch out for if they become ill.

Rabbit Option #1

This is an ideal schedule for rabbits that are used to lots of attention.

1 Hour Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive in the morning and let your rabbit out to play in whatever area is normal. Your sitter will play with your bunny (if she wants) and let her get some exercise. Your sitter will clean her cage, give her fresh food and water and can chop veggies or do any food prep you normally do. There is also time for a good cage and litter box cleaning. An hour visit really lets your rabbit stretch her legs and get some good activity and attention. Your sitter ends the visit by securing your rabbit back in her space, giving her any treats she can have and sending you an update so you know she is safe and sound!

30 Minute Dinner Visit

Your sitter will come for a dinner visit for some playtime and exercise, as well as a dinner feeding. At the end of the visit your sitter will settle your bunny in for the night and make sure she is happy and content.

Rabbit Option #2

This is an ideal schedule for rabbits that need feeding twice a day.

30 Minute Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive and check on your bunny. She can come out to play, explore and get some cuddles. Her sitter will clean up her cage and litter box, give her fresh food and water and make sure her behavior is normal. After some exercise, your bunny can go back in her cage for breakfast and treats (if you say so). Your sitter will send you and update to let you know she is doing great!

30 Minute Dinner Visit

Your sitter will come for a dinner visit for some playtime and exercise, as well as a dinner feeding. At the end of the visit your sitter will settle your bunny in for the night and make sure she is happy and content.

These visits could be 15 minutes if your bunny will not be coming out to play, however, if your bunny is used to getting exercise, we prefer to stick to her normal routine as much as safely possible. We also want to ensure there is plenty of time for food prep and cleaning, depending on how your system for bunny care is set up.

Rabbit Option #3

This is an ideal schedule for rabbits that need feeding once a day.

30 Minute Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive and check on your bunny. She can come out to play, explore and get some cuddles. Her sitter will clean up her cage and litter box, give her fresh food and water and make sure her behavior is normal. After some exercise, your bunny can go back in her cage for breakfast and treats (if you say so). Your sitter will set her up for the day and send you and update to let you know she is doing great!

Our Considerations for Rabbits

For rabbits, there are some very specific steps we take to keep them as safe and relaxed as possible.

Rabbits can take some time to warm up to new people and we want to do that as safely as possible, for your bunny and your sitter. If your bunny has playtime outside of her normal housing, at first we may want to keep your rabbit in a smaller play area until we can be sure she will go back into her enclosure or allow the sitter to pick her up when play time is done. We do not want to scare your bunny or risk injury by needing to chase her! Once she is used to her sitter then we can expand the play area to her normal space if it is larger, or a run of the house if that is normal.
If your bunny is going to be coming out for playtime, that visit will need to be at least 30 minutes long to provide enough time for everything to be completed.
For rabbits that will not be coming out for playtime, we can usually manage 15 minute visits unless there is a lot of food prep or extra tasks. If there is then we will often need a 30 minute visit to get everything taken care of.
If your rabbit is more active at a particular time of day, then we will want to schedule your longer visits during that time so she can have some fun! Some bunnies love morning playtime, some love the warm afternoons and some like to zip around before dinner!
Your sitter will want to know the routine of your bunny and any normal behavior changes. It is not unusual for bunnies to be sleepy at one time of the day and very active at another time, and all bunnies are different. If we know these behaviors then we can keep an eye out for any lethargy that is out of place.
Rabbits are prone to gastrointestinal issues that can be harmful very quickly. Rabbit owners often have medical supplies on hand and special veterinarians to reach in an emergency. Your sitter will need all of that information on hand in case any concerns arise.
If you are leaving for a long trip, we are willing and able to purchase fresh veggies at your request. We will schedule a separate visit time and arrange a method of payment to cover the food purchases.
Rabbits need a lot of mental stimulation and we want to help with that. If there are toys she likes or games she likes to play, please show your sitter so we can have fun and make the most of our visits!

Time to Customize!

We want to work with you to set up the best possible schedule for your hens, so you are all happy during your trip. We also know that each home is different, and a lot of people have more than just one pet! After you have the basic idea of your schedule we sit down to figure out the nitty-gritty:

Are there any other pets in the home that need feeding, medication, etc? We make sure your visit has enough time to get everything done.
We have time to clean out food and water bowls, clean up any messes, etc.
Many people who love animals, also love plants! Short visits do not have a lot of time for plants. If you need the sitter to water more than 1-2 plants, we will need to schedule a longer visit for those days. If you have beautiful summer gardens, then we need to see how long they take to water and add that on to your normal visits.
Household tasks such as; bringing in the newspaper, collecting the mail, turning lights off and on and taking out the trash. This can all be done on your normal schedule.
Do you want updates every visit? Many clients do, just keep in mind that your sitter will take a couple minutes to send an update.
Keep in mind that it will take a sitter a bit longer to get the work done than it takes you. Especially if you have extensive routines for your pets and home. You have had years to perfect your system! We always try to make sure your pet sitter will have enough time for everything. That way they will not feel stressed and your pets will receive the focus they deserve.

Work With Us to Keep Your Rabbit Happy While You are Gone!

Set Up Your Appointment!

8 Times When You Need a Dog Walker

July 24, 2018/1 Comment/in Dog Care, Ideal Visits/by Liana Waddy

Most people believe that dog walkers are only needed by people who work 12 hours a day, and while it is necessary in that case, there are a bunch of reasons when a dog walker can be helpful. We are going to look at when you may need a dog walker and how professional dog walks work.

When Can I Use a Dog Walker?

When you are working long days. This is the most common reason for people to hire a dog walker. They are working for longer than their pup can last and they want to make sure she gets out for some exercise and a potty break during the day. Usually, these visits are scheduled during the middle of the day, but can also be arranged based on your work schedule.
When your dog needs some extra exercise. Some of us do not have the time, or energy, to exercise our dogs as much as they need in a day. The average dog needs at least a 30-minute walk a day in order to stay happy, but high energy dogs can require a lot more than that.
When your life gets crazy! We all have those times when everything piles on and we just cannot get to it all. Having a dog walker come in and make sure that your pup is happy can take a load off your mind and free you up to work on tasks that only you can do. Dog walkers can also help out by feeding your pup and taking care of other small tasks when needed.
When you have a puppy. Puppies need to go out often and be supervised constantly. A standard rule of thumb is puppies can only hold it for one hour per month of age. This will vary based on the breed of puppy, their schedule and the puppy herself. It is hard to get anything done when you have a puppy needing so much time and attention. Even if you are home all done, it can be nice to have someone help out for a while so you can take a break.
When you have problems with mobility. We have had quite a few clients that are injured or elderly and need some extra help. This includes folks in assisted living facilities who are able to keep their dogs but cannot get them out for walks.
When your dog is bored. Maybe you are able to get your dog out but he is still bored during the day. A new friend coming in and changing up the routine will excite any dog and relieve the boredom.
When your dog is elderly or ill. Older dogs often need to get out more, especially if they develop health problems. Dogs with injuries or illnesses may need medication during the day or supervision while you are gone. We have spent time with more than one dog in a cone!
When your life is unpredictable! You have a job and kids and never know when the schedule is going to change. Dogs, as flexible as they are, thrive on routine. Knowing your pup is cared for, no matter what life throws at you, is a huge weight off your shoulders, and great for your dog!

These are just a handful of reasons you may need a dog walker. Really there is no end to the reasons you may need a dog walker in your life, nor should there be! A dog walker is there to provide your dog with consistency and you with peace of mind.

Some Examples Visits

Visits can be matched to your dog’s needs, but it is nice to get an idea of some possible schedules. We customize our visits and schedules based on the needs of your dog to make sure their visits are optimized.

Standard Mid-Day Dog Walk: Your dog walker comes in around noon (or whenever is a good time) and takes your pup for a walk. They go for a 25-minute dog walk, then the sitter refills your pup’s water, gives her a treat, sends you a picture of your pup to check-in, leaves a quick note about the visit and settles your pup in for the afternoon. You know how your dog is doing and do not have to worry about her for the afternoon. These walks can also be longer for high energy dogs.
Twice a Day Visits: You are not on vacation, but you need a bit of extra help with your pup. You sitter comes in twice a day (breakfast and dinner), takes your dog out for a 20-minute walk, feeds her, changes her water and takes care of other critters. This way the basic care is done and you can enjoy the time spent with your fur kids without stress. This schedule is used by people who are busy but also injured or elderly people who struggle with mobility.
Quick Potty Breaks: Some dogs do not need a walk but still need a potty break during the day. Your dog walker comes and let your pup out in the yard for 10 minutes, send you a quick update, change her water and settle her in for the day. These are great for dogs who do not need a lot of exercise but need to go potty and break up their day.
Long Exercise Visit: Many of us have high energy dogs and need help daily, or even just occasionally to burn off that energy. Your sitter comes at a good time of day and takes her for a 50-minute walk. During the summer we try to schedule these at times when the temperature is not too hot.

What to Consider When Scheduling Dog Walks

Are your dog walks dependent on a specific time, like breakfast, dinner or halfway through the day, or just to get your dog some extra exercise?
What times are you going to be gone?
How often does your dog need to go outside?
How much exercise does she need to stay happy and healthy?
What time of day is best for her to be out on a walk (if it is really hot or cold during the day)?
Will she need to be fed during this visit?
Do any other animals need care during the visit?
Do you want visits regularly or just occasionally?

Let Us Help!

We are here to discuss your dog and schedule and figure out the best scenario for you. Contact us and let us know what is going on in your life so we can figure out a schedule that works for you and your pup! Our schedules are flexible and we match our visits to your needs, not the other way around.

Schedule Your Dog Walks Today!

What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need for My Puppy?

June 12, 2018/0 Comments/in Dog Care, Ideal Visits, Puppies/by Liana Waddy

Are you going out of town but are worried about your puppy? Curious about what pet sitting visits for a puppy are ideal? Puppies require a lot of care but sometimes you have to leave town when they are young. A family emergency comes up, or maybe you got the puppy unexpectedly and already had a trip planned. We can help! Visits and schedules are going to vary dramatically based on the age of the puppy and where she is at with house training.

A good rule of thumb is: a puppy can hold it for 1 hour per month of age

This means a 2 month old puppy can last for 2 hours, 3 month old puppy for 3 hours, etc. Your puppy also needs to go outside if she has been playing, eating, drinking, or just woke up. We need to set up visits based on the age of your puppy and how long she can go without outside trips. In addition, some breeds tire faster than others, which will change how much exercise your puppy needs.

Puppy Of French Bulldog Lying On Floor Indoor by Scopio from NounProject.com

Puppy Option #1

This is an ideal schedule for very young puppies that need out every two hours.

30 Minute Visits – Every 2 hours starting 2 hours after you leave

Your sitter will arrive and take your pup out first thing. We want to use whatever reward system you have been using for consistency. Then your sitter can give your pup a snack and have playtime, followed by more potty time and settling in for the next nap. If you pup uses pee pads or a similar set up then your sitter will change those out and clean up your pup if needed.