Robyn's Happy at Home Pet Care

Why should I choose a Pet Sitter?

There are many answers to this question. The following are some of the most commonly held beliefs:
• Reduced stress to your pets because they remain in their own environment
• Your pet receives personal attention from a single caregiver while you are away
• Food, exercise and playtime routines will be kept as normal as possible, again reducing stress
• All of your pets can be cared for in the one home visit
• No risk of exposure to illness of other animals
• You don't have to rely on friends, neighbours or relatives
• Cheaper than kennel boarding for more than one pet
• You don't have to worry about dropping off or picking up your pets
• Your home is more secure because of the daily visits provided by my pet-sitting service.

Do you take care of other animals, besides cats and dogs?

Yes. I will take care of birds, guinea pigs, horses, rats, rabbits, fish, chickens, sheep, pigs, cows, goats and horses. I take very detailed notes on all your pets, so even unusual pets that I have not previously cared for will get the best care possible. However I do draw the line at spiders and snakes. Sorry! I will not provide this service to dangerous/aggressive pets, households where my safety may be at risk or if I am concerned for the animals’ welfare due to its living conditions.

Do you have pets yourself?

Yes, we are pet owners and pet lovers. We have two dogs – a Shepherd cross and a Staffy cross, several cats and a sheep (who isn’t quite sure whether she is a dog, cat or sheep!). The number of cats we have varies as I am a member of the Unweaned Kitten Rescue Network Inc and we often have “babies” here. I will treat your pet(s) with the same care and love as I do our own.

Do I need a reservation?

Yes, especially for the holiday periods. Ideally, I would like at least a week’s notice for all bookings. The earlier the better, so you can get the service you need.

Why is there an initial consultation?

My free initial consultation is needed to give you an opportunity to meet me and for me to meet you and your pets. This consultation usually runs about an hour, and will give me time to discuss your pet’s individual needs, go through all the required paperwork that include information about your home and pets, design a plan to suit your requirements as well as tour your home and schedule your service.
This visit is a vital first step in gaining your pets trust and familiarising myself with your pet’s daily routine. Please be sure to call far enough in advance to schedule your consultation.

How many times do you visit, and what time?

As many times as you request – this will be discussed at the initial consultation. I aim to keep as close to your pet(s) normal routine as possible. Visit hours are between 7.00am - 6.00pm - 7 days a week but can be varied (please ask). I provide a 20-30 minute visit.

Do you provide overnight stays or stay in our home while we are away?

Yes. I do offer overnight pet sitting and home stays. However, overnights and home stays cost more and I would need to check my availability before committing to any dates and find out as much as possible about your specific requirements. This type of visit is really only needed for new puppies, kittens, or individual animals that may suffer from separation anxiety.

Can you pet sit my pets in your home?

No. All pet sitting is carried out in the owner's home.

Will you give animals any required daily medications?

Yes. I have had experience giving medication. The instructions on how the medication is to be given will be collected during the initial consultation. There is no extra charge for this service, unless they are injections and need to be made at precise times of the day.

How do I prepare my home and pets for your service?

Check my Holiday Preparation Page.

How do I know that you have visited my home?

I will leave a detailed diary of my daily visits to your pet(s). You should also be able to tell from your pet and its’ health, the empty cans of food in the bin, your pile of mail and perhaps from neighbours who may have seen me.

What happens if I run out of food or supplies while I am away?

I will make a trip to buy any essential item if it runs out while I am caring for your pets, however, you will be charged for the item, as well as a $10 service fee. If you are going to be away for an extended period of time and your pet(s) eat fresh food, then we will make arrangements about the purchase of this food.

What happens if my pet becomes sick or is injured while I am away?

During our initial consultation, I will collect the details of how you can be contacted or who should be contacted in case of any emergency. The contact details of your pets' vet will also be taken in case a vet's service is required. So if your pets are sick, I will contact you or your authorised person to inform you what has happened. If I cannot contact you or an authorised person, I will take your pet to your nominated vet clinic. If for some reason, your vet is unavailable, I will use my own vets. Any vet fees will be passed onto you.

What will happen if I am delayed and unable to return on the date planned?

If you are unavoidably delayed or even decide to extend your holiday, notify me as soon as possible so I am able to continue your pet’s care. Any additional visits will be added to the agreed fee.

What happens if we have to cancel our booking?

I understand that sometimes things don’t go as planned, so generally I do not have a cancellation policy. However, as much notice as possible should be given, especially at Christmas and Easter so that other potential clients don’t miss out. See here for the actual terms.

When do I provide my keys to you and how do I get them back?

Keys are normally picked up during the initial consultation. However, if I can adequately care for your pets from outside your home with side gate access only, then a house key will not be required. I do recommend that a lock is put on any side gate(s) so that your pet(s) are not accidentally let out. Your key will be stored securely. It will be coded, and kept away from your personal details. I will make arrangements with you, during our initial consultation, about the return of your keys. I prefer to return them in person rather than leave them for you. There are two main reasons for this – the first is obviously the security of your home and, the second is that if you are delayed for any reason I will still be able to feed your pets.

Can you keep my keys?

Yes, if you request it. Many regular clients already do this. Each key is placed on a key ring and individually marked (never with your name or address) and stored securely.

Will my information be kept confidential?

Yes, all information is strictly kept confidential. Your information will never be given to a third party for any reason. I will be the only person to have access to your file.

What about security?

I have been police checked and hold a current Blue Card.

Who will be in my home while I am away?

I will be the only person caring for your animals and in your home while you are away.

What happens if you are taken ill?

In the event of ill health, I will continue to care for your home and pets in the best way that I can. If hospitalisation is required then I will provide alternative suitable cover for your home and pets at no extra cost to you.

Are your rates per pet?

No, all rates are by time only and almost all tasks are included. However, if you have an unusually large number of animals then my rate will have to be negotiated.

Do you charge extra for the public holidays?

Yes, the public holidays are Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years' Day, Australia Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Monday, Anzac Day, Labour Day and Queen’s Birthday. A $10 surcharge applies on these public holidays.

When and how should I pay?

I will advise you the amount payable when the reservation is made and payment arrangements will be discussed. A deposit of $25 is required prior to service commencing, with balance due within 7 days of end of service. An invoice will be left indicating the amount left owing. You will be issued with a receipt.
I accept cash, direct deposit, money orders or cheques.

What suburbs do you cover?

View the "Areas Covered" page.

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