FAQs

Getting Started

How do I get started with Sailor’s Dog Walking & Pet Care?

Step 1: Getting started is simple! First, create a client profile in our Time To Pet software. You can find this on the “Join Sailor’s” tab on our homepage or by clicking the link provided here.

Step 2: Complete our fillable registration packet and contract which will be available in Time To Pet after you create your account or on the “Join Sailor’s” page.

Step 3: We’ll schedule an initial consultation so we can meet you and your pet, learn about your routine, and make sure we provide the best possible care.

Do you require an initial consultation before services begin?
Yes. We require an initial consultation before providing services. This step allows us to: • Get acquainted with your pets
• Learn the location of important supplies (food, litter, leashes, etc.)
• Confirm home access and test keys
• Review your pet’s routine and any special care needs
Consultation Fee: $20.
Where can I find the registration packet and contract?

Our required forms are available as fillable PDFs. You may:
• Email completed forms to sailorspetcare@gmail.com
• Bring printed copies to your consultation
• Access them through your Time To Pet account under “My Info” tab • View Our Registration Packet Here to Print

And View Our Fillable Registation Pack Here

Home Access & Security

Do you require keys?
Yes. We require two sets of keys before your consultation.
• Set 1: Given to your assigned sitter or walker to provide scheduled services.
• Set 2: Kept securely on file as a backup in case of an emergency.
This system ensures uninterrupted care for your pets if your primary sitter is unavailable or if an unexpected situation arises.
Can I use a lockbox or keypad instead of keys?

Yes. If you have a lockbox or keypad entry, you can provide the access code and any instructions during your consultation.

However, we do ask that you still provide at least one physical key in case the keypad loses power or there is a technical issue. This helps ensure we can always access your home and care for your pets without interruption.

Do your sitters and walkers have background checks?
Yes. All of our pet care specialists undergo a comprehensive background check before being hired. This helps ensure the safety of your pets, home, and property, and allows us to maintain a team of trusted, reliable, and professional caregivers.
Are you insured and bonded?
Yes. Sailor’s Dog Walking & Pet Care is fully insured and bonded through Pet Sitters Associates, and all specialists are covered under our policy. We also carry general business liability insurance.

Services

What services do you offer?
We provide a range of professional in-home pet care services including:
• Dog walking
• Cat care
• Day visits
• Adventure walks
• Overnight pet sitting
• Pet to Vet Taxi
• Bark to the Park
How many dogs do you walk at once?
We specialize in individualized care and walk no more than two dogs at a time, only if they are from the same household.
If both dogs cannot safely walk together we may:
• Split the visit time between pets, or
• Schedule additional service time if needed.
Do you care for cats as well as dogs?
Yes! We provide dedicated cat day visits, including feeding, litter maintenance, playtime, and medication if needed.
Do you provide overnight pet sitting?
Yes. Overnight pet sitting provides your pet with comfort and supervision in their own home environment.
How long are dog walks?
Walk lengths depend on the service you schedule. Your consultation will help determine the best option for your dog’s needs.
What service should I choose if I have a dog and a cat in the same household?

If you have both a dog and a cat, please select a Dog Day Visit when booking. We will simply add an additional $5 cat care fee to the service.

This allows us to properly schedule time for your dog’s visit while also making sure your cat receives care during the same appointment.

Pet Care

Can you administer medications to pets?
Yes. We can administer most medications during visits, such as pills, powders, diabetic shots, and ear/eye drops. Please provide instructions during your consultation.
Do you care for senior pets or pets with special needs?
Yes. We regularly care for senior pets and pets with medical or mobility needs.
Do you work with puppies?
Yes. Puppy visits can include potty breaks, feeding, playtime, and reinforcement of basic training routines.
What if my pet is shy or nervous with new people?
We take a patient and gentle approach to help pets feel comfortable and safe.
Will you clean up accidents if they happen?
Yes. We will clean any accidents and notify you in the visit report.

Safety & Training

Is your team trained in pet first aid?
Yes. Our specialists are certified by the American Red Cross in pet first aid, including: • CPR
• Seizure response
• Wound care
• Vital sign monitoring
• Breathing and cardiac emergencies.
This training ensures we are prepared to handle unexpected health situations with professionalism and care.
Are you certified to operate in the State of Maryland?

Yes. Sailor’s Dog Walking & Pet Care is legally authorized to operate in Maryland and maintains compliance with state business regulations.

• We file and update our annual report each year to maintain compliance.

• This ensures transparency, accountability, and professionalism in all services we provide.

You can always check to see if a company is legally allowed to operate in Maryland and whether they are in good stand or not by visiting https://businessexpress.maryland.gov/
Scroll down to “Business Entity Search” and type in the business in the search bar to see if they are registered.

Scheduling & Hours

What are your hours of operation?
Monday – Sunday
8:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Do you walk dogs at night?
For safety reasons we do not provide walks during dark hours. If a visit occurs before sunrise or after sunset, we will provide safe potty breaks in a backyard or nearby grassy area. We use the remaining time of playtime inside.
Do you offer last-minute bookings?
Sometimes. Availability depends on our schedule and staffing at the time. We always try our best to accommodate last-minute requests, but this may require a shorter visit or scheduling the service outside of your preferred time window.
Can I request the same sitter each time?

Yes. We always try to schedule the same pet care specialist whenever possible so your pets can build a comfortable relationship with their caregiver.

However, we cannot always guarantee the same specialist due to scheduling conflicts, illness, vacation, or other unforeseen circumstances. If a substitute is needed, it will always be a trained team member who has previously met your pets or been properly introduced to your household routine to ensure consistent, reliable care.

Service Area

What areas do you serve?
We service:
• Annapolis
• Edgewater
• Mayo
• Harwood
• Lothian
• Galesville
• Arnold
• Cape St. Claire
• Crownsville
• Crofton
• Severna Park
• Davidsonville
• Riva
• Parts of Millersville.
Do you provide services outside your service area?
Yes, within reason. A $10 per visit travel surcharge may apply for homes located outside a 10- mile radius of our service area.

Fees & Policies

What is your cancellation policy?

Dog Walking, Cat Care, and Day Visits
• 24 hours notice required

Pet Taxi & Bark to the Park
• 72 hours notice required

Overnight Pet Sitting
• 2 weeks notice required

Late cancellations are charged 100% of the scheduled service cost. No exceptions.

Do you charge weekend or holiday fees?

Weekend Fee
• $10 per day

Standard Holiday Fee
• $15 per day

Major Holiday Fee
• $100 per day.

Pet Visit Updates

Will I receive updates about my pet?
Yes! After each visit you’ll receive a report through Time To Pet, which may include: • A detailed summary about your pet
• Timed check-in and check-outs
• GPS walk
• Potty or litter box updates
• Multiple photos
• Any concerns or observations

Emergencies

What happens if my pet becomes sick or injured during a visit?
If an emergency occurs:
1. We will attempt to contact you immediately.
2. If you cannot be reached, we will contact your emergency contacts or veterinarian. 3. If necessary, we will transport your pet to the nearest veterinary clinic. Your pet’s safety is always our top priority.

Weather

What happens during bad weather?
We continue services during most weather conditions. Walks may be shortened during extreme heat, cold, or storms to keep pets safe. We use the remaining time for playtime inside.