FAQ / POLICIES
How many dogs do you walk at a time?
Will TAILored Pet Services (TPS) cancel on us?
TPS has been in business since May 2011 and has NEVER cancelled a scheduled service for any of our clients. The benefit of hiring a professional dog walking company is you have a team to take care of you and your furry baby. If your primary walker is not available, an educated substitute walker will come instead.
How are TPS’ professional sitters/dog walkers selected?
We receive many applications from pet lovers wanting to become part of the Tailored Pet Services team, but only a few are accepted. Our rigorous requirements include a comprehensive application, multiple phone interviews, in person interview, dog walking test and finally a federal background check. Once hired, our dog walkers are taught safe dog walking procedures before starting to walk dogs unsupervised. Our thoroughness, attentiveness and special formula for providing premium pet care ensures your furry baby will be well taken care.
How are visits timed?
How do you ensure my dog’s safety?
Before the first walk, we confirm the personalities of the dog and walker are a good match. During the visit, the walker will always stay with Fido so he is never unattended, she will walk him on-leash in areas you specify, and she will cross the street when another dog/owner approaches to avoid an altercation.
What types of payment do you accept and when is payment due?
At Tailored Pet Services, we strive to make payment as convenient and secure as possible for our clients. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover cards. Your security is paramount to us, which is why we ensure that your credit card information is encrypted, with only the last 4 digits visible in our records. Our scheduling software program also securely stores your payment information for added peace of mind.
For dog walks, we streamline the payment process by sending you an emailed invoice for the upcoming month. On the first of each month, your credit card on file will be automatically charged for the current month’s walks.
For pet sits, we aim to make payment as hassle-free as possible. We typically process credit card payments on the first or second Friday closest to your departure date. However, if paying by credit card presents any challenges for you, we’re happy to accommodate alternative arrangements. You can opt to mail checks directly to our corporate office by the first of the month.
We understand that individual circumstances may affect your payment schedule. If your pay periods don’t align with our standard billing cycle, simply let us know, and we’ll work with you to adjust your payment due date to a more suitable time later in the month.
Your convenience and satisfaction are our priorities, and we’re committed to ensuring a smooth and flexible payment experience for all our clients.
Why are daily cat pet sitting visits required?
Sometimes, we receive vacation requests to visit cat clients every 2-3 days. At Tailored Pet Services (TPS), we insist on a minimum of once a day visits because of the numerous ways your cats’ safety may be compromised if not visited daily. For more information, read our blog article: Why are daily cat pet sitting visits required?
How do you access my home?
We request three keys so we have one for the primary walker, back-up walker and owner. The extra two keys are used to continue service if your primary walker becomes ill. If giving us three keys is impossible, you will be charged a pick up and drop off charge ($15 each).
If you have a door code or plan to be home when service provided, no key is necessary; however, we aren’t responsible if we can’t access home because of door code mechanical failure or no one answers the door.
Do you charge a holiday fee?
What services are included with a vacation visit?
Pet Sitting Tasks
• Food and Fresh Water
• Potty break in fenced yard (walks extra)
• Administer medication (no injections)
• Litter box scooped, pet waste removal
• Treats for good pets (if allowed)
• Provide love and attention for them as if they were our own
• Clean-up pet messes (vomit & potty accidents)
• Observing pet’s mood, health, well-being and safety
• Visit log
Household Tasks
• Water indoor plants
• Alternate blinds and lights
• Pick up mail, newspapers, flyers and packages
• Check overall security of your home
• Transport the trash cans/recycle bins to/from curb
• Sweep and/or vacuum after your pet (if equipment provided)
What areas does Tailored Pet Services serve?
Tailored Pet Services serves the following zip codes and cities:
- Edmonds 98026
- Everett
- Lake Stevens (west of Hwy 9)
- Lynnwood
- Mill Creek/Bothell 98012 & 98021
- Mukilteo
- Snohomish (west of Hwy 9)
Do you offer any dog walk discounts for recurring services or multiple pets?
Yes, we do offer discounts for recurring services and multiple pets. While many dog walking companies charge $30 per 30-minute walk for one dog, we provide discounted rates ranging from $23 to $25 for 30 minutes and $28 to $31 for 45 minutes for 1-2 dogs. These discounts are available for clients who schedule walks on a recurring monthly basis.
How do you handle emergencies or medical situations involving my pet?
At TAILored Pet Services, we understand that emergencies or medical situations involving your beloved pet can be incredibly distressing. Rest assured, the safety and well-being of your furry friend are our top priorities.
In the event of an emergency or medical situation, our highly trained team is prepared to act swiftly and decisively. Here’s how we handle such situations:
Immediate Response: Upon recognizing any signs of distress or emergency, our pet care professionals will remain calm and take immediate action.
Assessment and Stabilization: Our team members are trained to assess the situation and provide basic first aid as needed to stabilize your pet’s condition.
Communication: We understand the importance of keeping you informed every step of the way. In the event of an emergency, we will contact you immediately to discuss the situation and decide on the best course of action together. If we can’t reach you by phone or text, we have a signed veterinary care form on file so we can take them to your vet.
Transportation to Veterinary Care: If your pet requires further medical attention beyond our capabilities, we will transport them to your personal vet during business hours. If the vet is closed, we’ll take them to the nearest veterinary clinic or emergency facility without delay. Our team will stay with your pet and provide support until you arrive or until they are under the care of a veterinarian.
Follow-Up: Once your pet has received the necessary care, we will provide you with a detailed report of the incident, including any treatments administered and recommendations from the veterinary professionals.
Prevention and Preparedness: We continuously prioritize training and education for our team members to ensure they are equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies. Additionally, we maintain thorough records of your pet’s medical history and any special needs or instructions you provide to help us better care for them in any situation.
While we hope that emergencies never arise, we want you to have peace of mind knowing that your pet is in capable and caring hands with TAILored Pet Services. Since our inception in May 2011, we’ve only had five instances, and most were elderly animals who decided it was time to go to the Rainbow Bridge. Your pet’s safety and well-being are at the forefront of everything we do.
If you have any further questions or concerns regarding our emergency procedures, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your trust and your pet’s comfort are of utmost importance to us.
Do you accept individuals with irregular schedules?
We primarily cater to individuals with recurring schedules, as our services are designed to accommodate regular commitments such as work or school. Our peak availability for dog walks falls between 9 am and 2 pm, during which we handle over 150 walks per week.
It’s worth noting that our pricing is structured to reflect the recurring nature of schedules. While some dog walking companies may charge $30 for a 30-minute walk, our rates typically range from $23 to $25 for the same duration. This pricing model allows us to offer cost-effective services while maintaining the quality and consistency our clients expect.
Additionally, we request one-hour start times from clients to initiate our services. Unlike other companies that add clients to the schedule based solely on their needs, this approach helps us ensure efficient routing and timely service for all our clients.
Because we have been in business for 13 years, we have loyal clients so openings aren’t always available. Openings occur when a client leaves our schedule due to moving, the loss of a pet, or a significant lifestyle change such as now have ability to work from home.
We strive to accommodate requests whenever possible, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to discuss your specific needs with us. While we may not always be able to immediately accommodate irregular schedules, we’ll do our best to find a solution that works for both you and our existing clients.
Can you accommodate pets with special needs or behavioral issues?
Yes, we can accommodate pets with a variety of special needs and behavioral issues!
- Experience: We have extensive experience caring for pets with sensory limitations, including deaf dogs (utilizing hand signals), senior dogs with vision loss, and even a blind dog. We’re confident in providing a safe and comfortable environment for your special needs pet.
- Individualized Care: We understand that every pet is unique. We conduct a verbal consultation to ensure a good fit for both you and your pet. This is followed by a meet-and-greet to introduce our walkers/sitters to your furry friend and ensure everyone feels comfortable. We also work closely with you and your veterinarian to create a personalized care plan that addresses your pet’s specific needs.
- Walk & Train Options: Our “Walk & Train” program is perfect for dogs who have difficulty walking on leash. We use positive reinforcement techniques to help your furry friend develop leash manners and build confidence during walks.
- Expert Guidance: For pets with more complex behavioral issues, we have a certified dog trainer on staff who can guide us and develop a customized plan for success.
Here are some specific needs we can accommodate:
- Deafness: Our walkers are familiar with hand signal communication and can create a comfortable routine for your deaf dog.
- Vision Loss (Blindness or Age-Related Decline): We can map out safe walking routes, utilize verbal cues, and minimize environmental changes to ensure your visually-impaired dog feels confident during walks.
We’re also open to learning new communication methods for other special needs to ensure all pets feel comfortable and cared for.
Do you have a mobile app? Can I schedule online too?
Absolutely! We offer a robust mobile app designed to enhance your experience. Our app allows you to schedule visits, manage invoices, communicate with your pet nanny, and access your pet’s journal directly from your smartphone. Each journal entry includes a photo of your pet, creating a personalized record that you can revisit at any time.
Additionally, you can conveniently access all these features through our easy-to-use online client portal. Whether you prefer using the mobile app or logging in via the web, you’ll have the same capabilities and seamless experience.
How can I schedule and manage payments?
Scheduling and payments are streamlined through the Precise Petcare app. Upon signing up with us, you’ll receive access to the app where you can schedule services, review invoices, and securely make payments. We prioritize your security and privacy: only our management team has access to your financial records, and all credit card information is securely encrypted to ensure your peace of mind.
Why choose our mobile app and online portal?
Our goal is to make pet care as convenient as possible for you. With our mobile app and online portal, you have the flexibility to manage your pet’s care whenever and wherever you are. Whether you’re scheduling visits on the go or checking in on your pet’s activities, our digital tools simplify the process and keep you connected with your pet’s caregiver effortlessly.
The pet journal feature in our app provides a delightful touch – each entry includes a photo of your pet and is stored securely in our system. You can revisit these memories at your leisure, ensuring you never miss a moment of your pet’s adventures and experiences.
We’re committed to providing you with a seamless and secure experience, ensuring that your pet receives the best care while giving you the convenience and peace of mind you deserve.
How often should my dog be groomed?
Dog grooming frequency varies, but generally every 3-8 weeks. If you regularly brush your dog at home and get nail trims, you can extend the time between grooming sessions. High-maintenance breeds like doodles may require more frequent visits. We recommend no longer than 3 months between dog grooms to avoid skin issues and overgrown nails.
What dog grooming products do you use?
We use high-quality, pet-safe products from trusted brands such as Tropiclean, PPP Aromacare, Warren London, Chris Christensen, and Best Shot. All our products contain natural ingredients and are selected by our experienced dog groomer.
Can I stay with my dog during grooming?
For the best experience, we ask that pet parents do not stay during grooming. Dogs tend to behave better when their owners aren’t present, and it allows the groomer to focus entirely on your dog without distractions.
Can I drop my dog off early?
Due to our one-on-one grooming approach, we’re unable to accommodate early drop-offs. This ensures each dog receives the full attention they deserve.
Why do I have to come back right away when my dog is done? What if I’m not able to get there?
We love dogs and we don’t like the idea of them being in a crate for hours. The grooming salon can be a stressful environment, even with one on one appointments. We ask that you pick up your dog within 20 minutes of completion. We send you a text when we’re 15 minutes away from being done, and another when your dog is finished. Our groomer will give you a rough estimate of when your dog will be ready when you check in. If you are not able to come back due to an emergency, please designate another person to pick up and communicate with your groomer. Habitual late pick ups may be subject to a fee.
My dog is really matted. Are you going to shave them down?
Shaving is the most humane way to remove mats. If your dog is very matted we will shave the dog as short as necessary. Mats cause pain as well as skin irritation. If mats are found during grooming they will be removed. We try to inform pet parents what that will look like and what to expect at pick up, but it is not always possible. We do not brush out matting.
Do you hire independent contractors or employees?
TAILored Pet Services (TPS) only hires employees because we want the ability to train our staff to provide the premium service our clients expect. TPS employees are trained to follow policies outlined in our Employee Handbook. In addition, our employees are covered under our insurance/disability bond plus worker’s comp in case they are injured while providing pet care.
Can I make last-minute arrangements?
At Tailored Pet Services, we understand that life can be unpredictable, and unexpected situations may arise that require last-minute pet care. While we strive to accommodate our clients to the best of our ability, we are not an on-call dog walking service.
However, if you find yourself in a situation where you need last-minute assistance, you can always reach out to us. Simply give us a call, and one of our team members will do their utmost to help you out. Whether you’re stuck in traffic, unexpectedly held up at the office, or facing any other unforeseen circumstance, we’re here to support you and your pet.
While we’re committed to providing flexible and responsive service, we encourage our clients to plan ahead whenever possible to ensure that we can accommodate their needs effectively.
Is Tailored Pet Services similar to on-demand dog walking apps like Rover and Wag?
Both apps are tech companies who act as a middleman between customer and sitter so quality is dependent on the sitter/not company. Tailored Pet Services strives to build strong relationships with your family and we promise to resolve problems promptly. Both apps hire independent contractors which prevents training and oversight. Tailored Pet Services hires employees and continuously trains/develops them to ensure quality care, and offer a money back guarantee. For more differences, read our blog article: Professional Vs. Hobby Pet Sitter
What are the benefits of a dog walker versus a doggie daycare?
Many dog owners consider Fido and Spot important family members so the decision to sign up them for doggie daycare or hiring a dog walker for them is a significant one. The first step is determining if they are suitable candidates for doggie daycare. Suitable characteristics: (1) good physical health, (2) spayed/neutered, (3) enjoy socializing in a pack and being around other dogs, (4) comfortable in new environments or (5) content around unfamiliar dogs and people. If they don’t fit this criteria, hiring a dog walker may be the better choice. For more information to help you make a decision, read our blog article: Daycare: Is Your Dog Is an Ideal Candidate?
Are you licensed, bonded and insured?
How do I know the walker came?
At Tailored Pet Services, we understand the importance of knowing that your pet has been cared for during each visit. That’s why we provide multiple ways for you to stay connected and informed.
At the conclusion of each visit, we’ll email you a detailed journal that includes a photo of your pet. This journal serves as a personal update on your pet’s activities and well-being, allowing you to communicate with your pet nanny and stay connected even when you’re away.
Additionally, for added peace of mind, we offer the option to receive a text message with a photo confirming that we’ve arrived at the visit. This instant notification ensures that you’re informed promptly and can carry on with your day knowing that your pet has been looked after.
At Tailored Pet Services, we prioritize transparency and communication to provide you with the reassurance you need while you’re away from your furry friend.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require cancellations be received by text/phone/email and in order to best serve our client’s needs, our cancellation policy is follows:
• Mid Day Walks (Monday-Friday between 9am-3pm): clients who need us 2+ times per week pay a flat monthly fee instead of by the visit. Because membership begins on the first of the month and ends on the last day of the month, we charge a 50% cancellation fee. Walk cancellations need to be communicated to the office no later than 7am the same day or you will be charged for visit.
• Pet Sitting: Life can be unpredictable so we realize situations happen which may cause plans to change. After appointments are scheduled and confirmed, a cancellation fee may apply to compensate employees for reserving time for your visits. Refund given if cancellation received 8+ days prior to service except holidays (holidays must be cancelled 14+ days in advance).
• Overnights: it is difficult to fill the spot when someone cancels so you must cancel 31+ days in advance to receive a refund (fee applies to compensate us for turning away business).
• Boarding: To secure a Boarding Reservation you will be required to provide a non-refundable reservation fee. The required fee will be at least $100.00 or 10%, except in cases where the Boarding Reservation is valued at less than $100.00. In that circumstance, you will be required to pay the full amount of the Boarding fee in advance to secure the reservation. All reservation fees will be applied towards the cost of the boarding. Because in-home boarding is a personalized service, you will still be required to pay the remaining balance due on the scheduled boarding unless you comply with the cancellation policies as follows: (1) · Non-holidays: cancel at least thirty-one (31) days in advance of the first day of scheduled reservation or (2) Company holidays: cancel at least sixty (60) days in advance of the first day of scheduled reservation. If the appropriate notice is given, your deposit will be credited towards a future boarding reservation. No credit will be given if your pet is picked up earlier than expected. If you dispute forfeited deposits, you will be banned from our facility permanently.
Will the same walker/sitter come each time?
What is your COVID-19 policy?
We have two slightly different policies for when human client NOT home and when they are home. Visit our COVID-19 page for more information.
Do you have references?
We have numerous references and would love to share them (we can supply before/during/after our Meet and Greet). Also, read glowing feedback from our satisfied clients on Google Reviews.
Can I request specific time slots for walks or visits?
WALKS: At Tailored Pet Services, we prioritize a personalized scheduling approach for dog walks to ensure optimal convenience and consistency for our clients. When you enroll with us, we request your preferred hour for your dog’s walk rather than offering a broad time range. This method enables us to customize our schedule around your specific daily routine, ensuring that your pup receives their walk precisely when it suits you best. Whether you prefer early mornings to kick-start the day or midday breaks for your dog’s exercise, our flexible scheduling approach aims to meet your unique preferences seamlessly. This personalized strategy not only enhances your convenience but also maintains a reliable routine that benefits your dog’s well-being and happiness.
PET SITTING: When scheduling pet sitting visits at Tailored Pet Services, we streamline the process by offering a structured 90-minute time block for each visit. This approach allows us to efficiently manage our schedule while ensuring your pet receives the dedicated care and attention they deserve. Within this timeframe, we carefully plan and coordinate the visit to align with both your pet’s needs and our operational efficiency. Whether it’s feeding, playtime, administering medications, or simply providing companionship, the 90-minute block provides ample flexibility to accommodate various tasks and ensure your pet’s well-being during our visit. This structured approach not only optimizes our scheduling logistics but also ensures that your pet receives quality care tailored to their individual needs, fostering a comfortable and stress-free experience while you’re away.
Can I provide special instructions for my pet's care?
Certainly! At Tailored Pet Services, we understand that every pet has unique needs and preferences. That’s why we provide an online portal where you can provide as much information as you want about your pet. From dietary restrictions to favorite toys and daily routines, you can share all the important details with us.
Additionally, we have the ability to highlight specific instructions to ensure they’re not overlooked by your pet nanny. For example, we have one client who prefers that we avoid walking their dogs on the grass, and we make sure to adhere to this request.
Your pet’s well-being is our top priority, and we strive to follow your instructions to the letter to provide the best possible care.
What happens in case of inclement weather?
In the rare event of inclement weather, such as heavy snow, thunderstorms, or extreme heat, the safety and well-being of your pet and our team are our top priorities. While we are dedicated to fulfilling our scheduled visits, we also prioritize safety precautions to ensure the best possible care for your furry friend.
If weather conditions pose significant challenges, such as impassable roads or unsafe driving conditions, our team may need to adjust visit times or routes accordingly. We closely monitor weather forecasts and road conditions to proactively plan our schedules and minimize disruptions to your pet’s routine.
Snow/Extreme Cold Temperatures:
During heavy snowfall or extreme cold temperatures, we take special precautions to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.
- Our arrival may be delayed as we navigate through snowy roads or find alternative parking arrangements.
- We ensure your pet stays warm and comfortable outdoors by utilizing protective gear, such as coats or sweaters provided by the client.
- We also take precautions to protect your pet’s paws from the cold and potential hazards such as ice or road salt by wiping their paws before bringing them back inside.
Rain/Thunderstorms:
In the event of thunderstorms or rain, we prioritize your pet’s safety by implementing specific protocols.
- We wait until the storm passes before resuming outdoor activities to ensure your pet feels secure and comfortable.
- We keep outdoor time brief, focusing solely on necessary potty breaks, and then bring them inside for playtime or other indoor activities.
- Before allowing your pet back inside after outdoor activities in the rain, we make sure to dry them off thoroughly to prevent them from tracking water and dirt into your home.
Extreme Hot Temperatures:
During periods of extreme heat, we employ proactive measures to protect your pet from heat-related risks.
- Our team conducts ground temperature checks to ensure that pavement or sidewalks are not too hot for your pet’s paws.
- We prioritize walking routes with ample shade to shield your pet from direct sunlight and excessive heat exposure.
- We adjust our walking schedules to minimize the time spent outside during peak temperatures, prioritizing indoor playtime or activities in shaded areas.
Conclusion:
Rest assured, we are committed to maintaining open communication with our clients during inclement weather situations, including periods of extreme heat, cold, rain, or snow.
Can I schedule a meet-and-greet with the assigned pet nanny before booking?
Absolutely! Before booking our services, we encourage clients to schedule a meet-and-greet with their assigned walker/sitter. This initial meeting allows us to get acquainted with you and your pets, understand your specific needs and preferences, and address any questions or concerns you may have.
To streamline the process and make the most of our time together, we kindly request that you complete a profile in our online scheduling program beforehand. This allows us to review important information ahead of time and come prepared with tailored questions to ensure we fully understand your expectations.
Please note that we do charge a $30 fee for the meet-and-greet, which is credited towards your first reservation. We believe this investment in our initial interaction sets the foundation for a successful and harmonious relationship between you, your pets, and our team. We look forward to meeting you soon!
How are the walking routes determined?
At Tailored Pet Services, we understand that every dog is unique, and so are their walking preferences. That’s why we meticulously design our walking routes to cater to the diverse needs and personalities of our furry clients. When determining our routes, we prioritize safety above all else. We carefully assess each path to minimize exposure to potential hazards such as traffic and areas where dogs might be aggressive towards fences or each other. If we encounter situations like these, our trained staff are prepared to safely handle and redirect your pet, ensuring their walk remains stress-free and enjoyable.
Beyond safety, we also prioritize the enjoyment and stimulation of each walk. Our routes often include access to parks, trails, and green spaces where pets can freely roam and engage in natural behaviors. These environments not only provide physical exercise but also mental stimulation, contributing to the overall well-being of your pet.
Additionally, we tailor our routes to accommodate the specific needs of different pets. Whether your dog loves the excitement of visiting a local park or prefers a quieter neighborhood stroll, we have routes that cater to varying activity levels and preferences. For pets with mobility challenges, we ensure our routes are accessible and comfortable, making adjustments as needed to accommodate any special requirements.
At Tailored Pet Services, our commitment is to provide more than just a walk—we aim to create an enriching experience that enhances your pet’s well-being. If you have any specific questions about our walking routes or would like to discuss how we can customize our services to best suit your pet, our dedicated team is always available to assist you. Your pet’s happiness and safety are our top priorities, and we look forward to providing them with enjoyable and fulfilling walks tailored just for them.
Are there any breed restrictions for your services?
No, there are generally no breed restrictions for our services. We welcome all breeds of dogs and pets. However, employee safety is critical. In rare cases where a pet exhibits aggressive behavior that poses a potential threat to our staff’s safety, we may need to discuss alternative arrangements. Our goal is to ensure a secure and delightful experience for both your furry baby and our team members alike. If you have any concerns about your pet’s behavior or specific needs, please feel free to contact us in advance so we can address them accordingly.
What are your dog grooming hours of operation?
Our dog grooming salon is open Saturday to Wednesday, from 8 AM to 2 PM. The last dog grooming appointment of the day is typically scheduled around 12:30-1 PM, depending on the breed and services.
What are your dog grooming cleaning protocols?
We use a disinfectant that is intended for use in grooming salons, boarding facilities, vet clinics, etc. It is effective against viruses, bacteria, mold, and mildew. It leaves no residue and is safe enough to use on grooming tools. We clean the table, kennel, tub, and tools between every client.
What vaccinations are required for grooming?
We require Rabies and Distemper (DAPP or DHPP). Bordetella is highly recommended but not mandatory. Please ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date before their grooming appointment.
Why is your grooming service more expensive than other salons?
We provide a more personalized, one-on-one experience for each dog, without using kennel dryers or overcrowding the salon. This means your dog is groomed in a calm environment with less stress. Many other salons cut costs by grooming more dogs at once, which can lead to rushed work and more time spent in cages.
My pick up time came and went but I never heard from my groomer. What do I do?
If your groomer told you your pet would be done in an hour and you have not heard from them after an hour, you should come back and check on the status. Sometimes carrier settings can cause you to miss our texts.
How do I know when it’s time to bring my dog for a nail trim?
If your dog’s nails are clicking on hard floors, it’s time to come in. We recommend every 3-5 weeks depending on your dog’s lifestyle. Active dogs that walk a lot may not need nail trims as frequently. Elderly or small breeds may need them done more often.
Our Clients Love Us!
I think Chantelle is absolutely fabulous! She is sweet and loving and truly cares about my dog. She is 100% reliable and communicates with me in a timely and professional way. I would recommend her to anyone.
Diana – Snohomish 98296