Merry Murphy Pet Sitters
F.A.Q.S. of Pet Sitters
704-246-4148

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of pet sitters?

Pet Sitters provide an important alternative to
boarding your dog or cat at a kennel.  Pet Sitters
visit your home at agreed upon times (usually with
in a certain time frame) during your absence from
home.  They do not stay at your home, unless you
contract for over night pet sitting stays.

What pet services are offered?

Services offered depend on the company. Basic
pet services  include feeding, watering, walking,
brushing, pooper scooper, cleaning litter box,
feeding fish, and other basics of pet care. In
addition, pet sitters will bring in the mail and
newspapers, water household plants, rotate lights
and blinds. This is a needed security referred to
by pet sitters as house sitting.  Additional services
include pet taxi to other services such as the vet,
but are not part of the regular visit and require
additional charges if offered.

Why does the Pet Sitter Need an initial
consultation with me in my home?

The first meeting with your pet sitter will make
clear whether or not you wish to engage the pet
sitter for an assignment with your pet.  The pet
sitter will ask detailed questions about your pet
and their habits.  It is very detailed questionaire in
the event of a household emergency such as a
busted water pipe, or the number of your
veternarian, etc. It is surprising the details that can
be neglected if a structured questionaire is not
followed. It provides an opportunity for you to give
detailed instructions. Most of all, your pet sitter will
become "friends" with your pets, and this makes
the first visit much easier! The good thing is after
your first visit, you will only have to call or e-mail
for future assignments.  Be sure to update your
pet sitter with any  changes to your information.

What does a pet sitter need from you?

Professional pet sitters will give you a list of
needed items such as a dog leash, towels, etc.
Following the list provided makes it easier on your
pet and pet sitter.  If there is a change in contact
information, or anything else your pet sitter should
know, call them so they can have the information
on file before the next visit!

What are mid-day visits or what some pet
sitters call half-visits?

Most typicall y these visits are dog walking
services, or "potty breaks" for a dog or cat during
the day. The pet sitter will also give fresh water,
play with your pet, etc.  Some pet sitters
designate a time period such as 15mins. to 30
mins., others do not.

What is "overnight sitting"?

Generally, these are time periods out of the pet
sitters normal hours of operation. The time
periods vary, but are generally more expensive.
For instance, your pet sitter may charge more to
visit your pet at 10:00 p.m. to give medication.  
Pet sitters in many instances will stay over night if
arrangements are made.

Should your pet sitter update you on your
pets while you are gone?

Pet sitters will definitely keep you updated if that
is what you wish. Whether by phone, e-mail, or
special software updates, it is entirely up to you.  
Some people wish only to be notified if there is a
need to do so.  Either way is perfectly acceptable.
 Most pet sitters will keep a daily diary for you to
let you know detailed events that occured while
you were away.

What about letting this stranger into my
home?

Any professional pet sitter today usually belongs
to a professional association and maintains
insurance. You need to check references or get
personal referrals. Doing a google search is also
helpful.  Mutual trust is a necessity. The pet sitter
or dog walker wants you to be a repeat customer,
and depends on your referrals.

What are the pet sitting benefits for you?

You can leave home knowing your pet and home
are cared for.  You deserve time away that is
"worry-free".  That is the
purpose for even hiring a pet sitter. Once you
have found that
perfect pet sitter, your pet will have one more
friend, and stress will be a non-issue for all
involved.  Pet sitters understand that there will be
emergencies where you can not
give adequate notice.  Having a pet sitter you are
acquainted with to easily call, provides another
reason to have a pet sitter.

Merry Murphy Pet Sitters will be glad to answer
any questions, and will be happy to provide all
your Charlotte pet sitting and dog walking needs!  
Call us at 704-246-4148
red dog house logo
Merry Murphy Pet Sitter
9131 Nolley Court
Charlotte,NC 28270
704-246-4148