FAQs

Below you’ll find answers to the questions we get asked the most about professional pet sitting and dog walking services.

How are service prices determined?

Pet sitting charges are based on the time it takes to complete the job. In the case of pet taxi services, charges are based on mileage and time.

Do you board pets?
Mid Maryland Pet Sitting does not offer standard boarding services. However, there are times when boarding could be an option such as with small pets (guinea pigs, hamsters, etc.) or in the event of an emergency when a pet may need round the clock care and monitoring.
Do you do overnight pet sitting?

At this time Mid Maryland Pet Sitting does not offer this service.

How are visits scheduled?

Every job is different, and we try to coordinate times and needs as bests as possible. Generally speaking, the workday is 7am – 7pm and all visits are made within that window. We do not promise a specific time as pet needs and traffic can cause delays in making rounds. With jobs that include dog walks and/ or administration of medication we guarantee a window of time that we will arrive. For example, the walk will occur between 1 and 2 pm or meds will be given between 5 and 6 pm, etc.

What happens in the event of severe weather?

We have a plan! This is the provision from our contract: “In the event of extremely bad weather or natural disaster, MMPS will make pet sitting rounds as soon as it is safe to travel. MMPS is entrusted to use their best judgment in caring for pet(s). Client will not hold MMPS liable for consequences related to such decisions.”

Can you let me know how my pet is doing while I'm away?

Most definitely, pet parents enjoy getting text updates and cute pictures of their fur kids while away. This is something we discuss at the initial consultation.

Is there a holiday surcharge?

No

Are you insured?

Yes

Can I schedule every other day cat visits?

Our contract contains the following provision:
“MMPS has minimum visit policy to comply with our insurance policy and for the health and well-being of our client’s pet(s). Client’s pet(s) must be visited every 24 hours (we strongly recommend every 12 hours). For pet(s) without access to a potty area (i.e. pet door, pee pads, or litter box), MMPS, requires a minimum of 3 daily visits. Visit times are approximate and subject to change based on the needs of all pets under MMPS care. MMPS is entrusted to use best judgment in caring for pet(s).”

Will you care for my pets without a consultation?

Consults are free and required before we will agree to care for your animals.

What happens in the event of an emergency?

We can’t plan for every emergency; however we certainly discuss potential situations at the consultation and contingency plans are in put in place. If something completely unexpected happens our first priority is the health and wellbeing of your pet so that could mean immediate transport to a Vet or ER, second priority is getting in contact with you to determine an appropriate course of action. All pet parents are asked to complete and sign a Veterinary Release Form (located under downloads) allowing us to initiate medical care in the event of an emergency.

Are gratuities / tips expected or required?

Tips are not expected or required; however, they are very much appreciated. In all instances we attempt to provide your pets with a vacation-like experience and pamper them even more than you do. Getting a tip always makes us smile and feel especially appreciated.

How is payment handled?

At the present time we only accept cash and check as forms of payment.

What is the cancellation policy?

We understand that when travel is involved plans can change based on a variety of unexpected factors. However, we ask that our clients understand that pet sitting is our business and livelihood, and not simply a hobby. With that in mind, we have the following cancellation policy:
“All services are subject to a 24-hour cancellation period. Cancellation period is determined by counting back from the date serves are scheduled to begin. If reservations are cancelled prior to the cancellation period client will not be charged. Otherwise, client will be responsible for 100% of the invoice total. If changes are made to reservation during the service period, no refunds or credits will be given, and clients are required to pay for the reserved number of visits. Service period begins on the date of first scheduled visit and ends on the date of last scheduled visit. Reservation extensions are subject to a supplemental invoice and will be billed upon clients return.”

What happens if I did not leave enough food / supplies for my pet?

We would never let a pet be hungry or devoid of other necessities. In the event of low supplies, we would be immediately in contact with you to make a contingency plan and then you would be billed for any necessary purchases upon your return.

How far in advance do I need to make a reservation?

We do not require a certain amount of lead time, however, the sooner the better is always a good philosophy. On holidays the schedule can fill quickly so its better to book early and then tweak the schedule if necessary as the holiday approaches.

What happens if I am delayed getting home?

We will never leave your pets unattended. If your travel plans are delayed please be in touch with us asap so that we can come up with a plan to make sure your pet’s care is uninterrupted.

Why do I need to confirm that I have returned home?

We like to know you are home safe and can feel comfortable in transferring care back to you.

What happens if there is an emergency in my home unrelated to my pets?

We are happy to look out for your home and property in addition to pets. The moment we notice something amiss we will contact you to determine a plan of action. If you are unreachable, we will take whatever action is needed to make sure your pets are safe and home secure until we can reach you.

I have a friend / family member who may stop by to visit is that ok?

There is a great deal of liability involved in taking care of your pets and property and our insurance only covers our actions. Therefore, we have a strict “no shared care” policy, however we do understand that others may have access to your house while you are away and we address this in our contract:
“MMPS has a “No Shared Responsibility Policy” in order to comply with our insurance policy. This means no other person should share pet care responsibilities (i.e. feeding, medicating, etc.). Client agrees to provide and list all individuals/companies who have access to the premises while client is away (i.e. house cleaning service, painters, landscapers, friends, family members, etc.). MMPS cannot be held responsible for the acts of others that are allowed in and out of the home during the service period.”