Winter storms are when professionalism matters most. For dog walkers and pet sitters in Columbus, snow and ice change how we travel, how we walk, and how we care for pets. While some clients may cancel during storms, many still rely on us to show up — whether they are heading into work or traveling […]
10 Winter Storm Safety Tips for Dog Walkers in Columbus Read More »
Winter in Columbus, Ohio brings brisk winds, icy sidewalks, and unpredictable snowfalls — but that doesn’t stop dogs from needing their daily walks! For professional dog walkers and devoted pet parents alike, knowing how to navigate cold-weather walks is essential to keeping pups healthy, happy, and safe. At Hands N Paws, we pride ourselves on
How Columbus Dog Walkers Can Safely Handle Winter Weather Read More »
With Halloween just around the corner, many pet parents in Columbus, Ohio are gearing up for a season filled with fun decorations, candy, and costumes. While it’s an exciting time of year for families, it’s important to remember that the spooky season also brings unique risks for our furry friends. As a trusted provider of
Spooky Season Pet Safety: How to Protect Your Pets This Halloween Read More »
*To quickly navigate to a specific emergency and its solution within this blog, simply click on the emergency listed below to learn more: As a pet sitter and dog walker in Columbus, you’re often the first line of defense in keeping pets safe and healthy. While many days go by smoothly, emergencies can and do
Whether you’re a seasoned pet sitter or new to the profession, keeping both yourself and the pets in your care clean is crucial for a healthy, happy environment. Here are the top 5 tips to help Columbus, Ohio pet sitters ensure cleanliness across their work.: 1. Address Pet Accidents with Diligence Navigating one of the
5 Essential Cleanliness Strategies for Pet Sitters in Columbus, Ohio Read More »
Did you know that over 70% of pet owners will experience a pet emergency at some point in their furry friend’s life? From sudden illnesses to unexpected injuries, emergencies can strike when we least expect them. With the right knowledge and preparation, however, you can be ready to spring into action and save the day
Expert Guide: Handling Pet Emergencies with Confidence Read More »
As the festive cheer of Thanksgiving fills the air, we, as dedicated dog walkers and pet sitters in Columbus, Ohio, have a crucial role to play. Let’s gear up to keep our furry clients safe from toxic pet foods this holiday season. We want to ensure the festivities are filled with joy for both humans
An Essential Guide to Avoiding Toxic Pet Foods Read More »
Dogs love the summer weather. It allows them to spend more time outdoors, bask in the sunshine, and explore new sights and smells. The warmer weather also provides opportunities for swimming and other water activities, which many dogs enjoy. Additionally, summer is a wonderful time to enjoy lots of dog walking! Here’s our top 5
6 Tips for Summer Dog Walks in Columbus, Ohio Read More »
Spring is here! It’s time to get your outdoor pets ready for longer walks, trips to the park, and plenty of time in the sun! While exciting, this seasonal transition from cold to warm weather can pose risks like allergies, fleas, ticks, and exposure to unsafe plants and chemicals. Here’s 5 pet care tips you
5 Ways To Prepare Your Pet For Spring Weather Read More »
Note: This article was originally written in March 2020 during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. While general information about pets and illness remains relevant, public health guidance and data have evolved. For the most current recommendations, always consult your veterinarian and official health agencies. When COVID-19 first emerged in early 2020, pet owners
COVID-19 and Pets: What Columbus Pet Owners Should Know Read More »
Hands N Paws Client Agreement
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Key Terms
* Client = You
* Company = Hands N Paws
* Team Member(s) = Our trained pet care professionals
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EMERGENCY & MEDICAL CARE
Emergency Care
You are responsible for providing accurate emergency instructions and up-to-date medical information for your pet within your account.
In the event of an emergency, we will first attempt to contact you. If you cannot be reached and immediate action is required, we will contact your primary veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic.
Team Members are authorized to make urgent medical decisions on your behalf when necessary to protect your pet’s health (excluding euthanasia).
You agree to assume full financial responsibility for all veterinary expenses. Hands N Paws is not liable for outcomes related to pre-existing conditions, sudden illness, injury, or circumstances beyond our control.
Emergency & Extended Care Services
When circumstances require care beyond originally scheduled services, Hands N Paws reserves the right to apply additional fees.
This may include, but is not limited to:
* Veterinary transport or extended wait time
* After-hours or late-night services
* Additional visits due to medical or behavioral changes
* Schedule restructuring requiring expanded coordination
* Urgent care needs requiring additional time or resources
All such services will be documented and itemized on your invoice. Veterinary expenses remain the responsibility of the Client.
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HOME ACCESS & SAFETY
Home Access
A lockbox containing a working spare key is required to ensure uninterrupted access to your home. Garage codes or keypad entry may be used but do not replace the lockbox requirement.
All access instructions must be clearly documented in your account notes. For complex entry procedures, please **[email us](mailto:support@myhandsnpaws.com)** a video walkthrough to prevent delays.
Our priority is providing uninterrupted care for your pets.
Safe & Sanitary Environment
You agree that the service environment is reasonably safe and sanitary. If conditions pose a risk to our Team Members or your pets, we reserve the right to pause or terminate services until the issue is resolved.
Third-Party Access
You must notify us if any third party will have access to your home during scheduled services. Hands N Paws is not responsible for loss, damage, or incidents caused by third parties during this time.
Service Termination
In rare situations involving serious safety concerns, Hands N Paws may terminate services during a scheduled period.
If this occurs, you agree to arrange and cover the cost of alternative care or boarding until your return. We will make reasonable efforts to notify you and your emergency contacts.
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SERVICE STRUCTURE & EXPECTATIONS
Flexible Arrival Windows
Services are scheduled within a two-hour arrival window. While we make every effort to honor preferred times, exact arrival times cannot be guaranteed due to travel, weather, emergencies, or other client needs.
Trial Visits
For extended or vacation services, a Trial Visit is required while you are still in town to ensure your pet is comfortable before long-term care begins.
Service Request Approval & Availability
All service requests are subject to Team Member availability. You will receive confirmation or declination within 48 hours. If we are unable to accommodate your request, we will work with you to explore alternatives.
Communication
All routine communication occurs within your client portal through post-service journals.
For urgent matters during a visit, Team Members will call the phone number on file.
If you receive a Team Member’s personal contact information, please do not use it for routine communication. All scheduling, updates, and service notes must remain within your account or through our main office.
Accurate Pet Information
You agree to maintain accurate and up-to-date information in your account. Every three months, you will be prompted to review and confirm your pet’s details before submitting new service requests.
Hands N Paws is not responsible for issues resulting from incomplete or outdated information.
Vaccination, Licensing & Identification
Before services begin, all pets must:
* Be up-to-date on vaccinations and local licensing requirements
* Wear identification tags or be microchipped
Dog-Walking Safety
For everyone’s safety, dogs must remain leashed during walks. Off-leash walks are strictly prohibited.
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PRICING & BILLING
Please visit **[www.myhandsnpaws.com](http://www.myhandsnpaws.com)** for current service pricing.
Additional Fees & Surcharges
Additional fees may apply in the following situations:
* Last-Minute Services: $15 for requests made within 24 hours
* Holiday Services: $20 per service on major holidays
* Additional Pets: $7 per pet beyond the first two
* Service Adjustments: Fees may apply when services exceed originally scheduled scope or time.
Account Assistance Fee
If you request that we schedule services, cancel services, update pet notes, or otherwise manage your account without first attempting to do so yourself, a surcharge equal to 10% of your most recent invoice (minimum $25) will apply.
Our **[Client Support Center](http://www.myhandsnpaws.com/client-support)** provides step-by-step guidance to help you manage your account independently.
Cancellations
* 48+ hours notice: 100% refund issued as Account Credit
* 24–48 hours notice: 50% refund issued as Account Credit
* Less than 24 hours notice: No refund
All refunds are issued as Account Credit and automatically applied to your next invoice.
Payment & Billing
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Clients are responsible for maintaining a valid payment method on file at all times.
* Ongoing Services: Auto-charged every Friday for the previous week’s services
* One-Time Services: 50% deposit charged upon confirmation; remaining balance auto-charged by final service date
* Declined Payments: You will be notified immediately and have 24 hours to resolve the issue. A 10% late fee (minimum $20) applies after a second declined attempt.
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Contract Terms
This agreement begins upon signature and remains in effect until terminated by either party.
By signing, you authorize Hands N Paws to enter your home and care for your pets for all confirmed bookings without additional contracts.
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Service Interruptions (Force Majeure)
Hands N Paws shall not be liable for delays, interruptions, or inability to provide services due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to severe weather, natural disasters, power outages, road closures, government actions, public health emergencies, or other unforeseen events.
In such cases, we will make reasonable efforts to notify you and resume services as soon as it is safe and practicable to do so.
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Thank you for trusting Hands N Paws with your furry family 💜🐾
