(614) 636-6644
Best dog walkers and pet sitters in Columbus Ohio

Managing a Pet Visit from Start to Finish

Before the Visit: Preparation is Key

Review Client & Pet Notes:

  • Open Precise Petcare and click on the client’s name in the service box.
  • Read through all instructions: feeding amounts, medication details, walk preferences, and home access info.
  • Check for any special requests or notes left by the client or other sitters (in previous journals).

Pack Your Go-Bag:

  • Leash (always bring a backup!)
  • Waste bags
  • Portable water bowl
  • Weather-appropriate gear (umbrella, doggy boots, towel)
  • Phone charger or portable battery

Plan Your Route:

  • Use the icon in the service box for convenient directions.
  • Allow extra time for traffic, parking, or unexpected delays.

Starting the Visit: Check-In

How to Check In:

  1. Open the Precise Petcare app.
  2. Go to My Schedule.
  3. Find the yellow service box for your visit.
  4. Click the “Arrived” button.
    • The box will turn blue.
    • A timer will start—this helps you track time and ensure you stay for the full visit duration.

When You Arrive:

  • Speak calmly when entering the home (“Hello, it’s [Your Name] from Hands N Paws!”).
  • Secure the door behind you immediately to prevent pets from escaping.
  • Leash dogs before opening any door to the outside.

During the Visit: Providing Excellent Care

Follow the Client’s Instructions:

  • Stick to the routine: feeding, walking, medication, playtime.
  • Use the Service Checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Take Great Photos:

  • Capture 3–5 clear, happy photos of the pet.
  • Get shots of them eating, playing, or relaxing.

If You Finish Early:

  • You must still stay for the full scheduled time unless the client’s notes say otherwise.
  • Use extra time to play, brush, or give extra attention to the pet.

Troubleshooting: When Things Don’t Go as Planned

You Can’t Access the Home:

  1. Re-read the client’s entry instructions.
  2. Post in Slack #questions.
  3. If still stuck, call or text the client.

The Pet Seems Sick or Injured:

  • Contact your Team Lead immediately.
  • Refer to the client’s vet info in their profile.

You Clicked “Arrived” or “Complete” by Mistake:

  • DM a Team Lead on Slack right away.
  • If no one responds, note the error in your journal.

Wrapping Up: Check-Out & Securing the Home

Before You Leave:

  • Do a final walk-through:
    • Are food and water bowls full?
    • Is the pet safe and comfortable?
    • Are all doors and windows locked?
    • Is the alarm set (if applicable)?

How to Check Out:

  • Go back to the blue service box on your My Schedule page.
  • Click the “Complete” button.
  • The box will turn light gray, and the timer will stop.

After the Visit: Submitting Your Journal

How to Submit:

  • Click the Journal button in the gray service box.
  • Write a friendly, detailed summary:
    • What you did (walk, feeding, playtime).
    • How the pet was behaving (happy, tired, hungry).
    • Anything unusual you noticed.

Add Photos:

  • Upload the photos you took during the visit.
  • Clients love seeing their pets happy!

Why Journals Matter:

  • They give clients peace of mind.
  • They help other sitters know what to expect.
  • Great journals lead to tips and repeat bookings!

FAQs & Pro Tips

Why can’t I see the “Arrived” or “Complete” button?
Those buttons only appear on the day of the visit. If the service is over, the buttons disappear, and you’ll only see the Journal button.
What if I’m running late?
DM your Team Lead and text the client to let them know.

Pro Tips:

  • Enable location services so visit GPS maps auto-generate.
  • Use the “On My Way” button to notify clients you’re en route.
  • Keep journals positive and professional.

➡️ For a full video walkthrough of how to manage a visit from start to finish, watch this tutorial video:

You’ve Got This!

Every visit you complete helps build trust with clients and our team. Take a deep breath, use your resources, and remember—we’re always here to help in Slack #questions!

We are not accepting new clients until 2026.

Join Waitlist
X
Screenshot 2024 05 06 at 11.59.44 AM fotor bg remover 20240506122627

By signing this agreement, you confirm that you’ve read, understood, and agreed to the policies below. Your signature also allows us to add your email to our mailing list (you can change your preferences anytime).

Key Terms
– Client = You
– Company = Hands N Paws
– Team Member(s) = Our pet care professionals

—

Emergency Care Policy
You’re responsible for providing emergency instructions and medical details for your pet. Otherwise, we’ll contact your vet or an emergency clinic in case of an emergency. Team Members may make urgent care decisions (excluding euthanasia) if immediate action is needed. You’re responsible for any veterinary costs, and Hands N Paws isn’t liable for circumstances beyond our control.

—

Home Access Policy
A lockbox with a spare key is required to ensure we can access your home. Garage or keypad codes are okay but don’t replace the need for a lockbox. Provide clear access instructions in your account notes. If entry is complicated, email us a video walkthrough to avoid delays. Our priority is your pets, not troubleshooting access!

—

Cancellation Policy
We get it—plans change! Here’s our policy:
– 48+ hours notice: 100% refund as Account Credit.
– 24-48 hours notice: 50% refund as Account Credit.
– Less than 24 hours: No refund.
Refunds are issued as Account Credits and auto-apply to your next invoice.

—

Safe & Sanitary Environment
You understand and agree that the environment in which we provide services is reasonably sanitary and safe. If we determine that your home is unsanitary or unsafe, we’ll let you know and take appropriate action, which may include stopping services.

—

Service Termination Policy
In rare cases, if we believe there’s a serious danger to the health or safety of our Team Members or your pets, we may terminate services during a scheduled period. If this happens, you agree to cover the cost of boarding your pet or arranging alternative care until you return. We’ll do our best to notify you and/or your emergency contacts in these situations.

—

Third-Party Access Policy
You’re responsible for letting us know if anyone else will have access to your home during the scheduled services. Hands N Paws is not liable for any loss, expense, or damage caused by third parties entering your home during this time.

—

Vaccination, Licensing & ID Policy
Before services begin, all pets MUST:
– Be up-to-date on vaccinations and local licensing.
– Wear an ID tag with your contact info or be microchipped for identification.

—

Pet Safety Policy
For everyone’s safety, dogs must remain leashed during walks. Off-leash walks are strictly prohibited.

—

Accurate Pet Information Policy
Keep your pet’s info in your account accurate and up-to-date. Every three months, you’ll be prompted to review and confirm your pet’s details before being able to request services. Hands N Paws isn’t responsible for issues caused by outdated or incorrect information.

—

Provide Visuals Policy
For complex routines or home entry instructions, please record a video and email it to us. A visual guide helps us better understand your needs and ensures smooth service delivery.

—

Flexible Arrival Times
Services are scheduled within a two-hour arrival window to accommodate travel and other clients. While we’ll do our best to meet your preferred times, exact arrival times can’t be guaranteed.

—

Trial Visits
For extended pet care (e.g., vacation services), we require a Trial Visit while you’re still in town. This helps ensure your pet is comfortable with our team before committing to long-term care.

—

Service Request Approval & Availability
We do our best to accommodate all requests, but approval depends on Team Member availability. After submitting a request, you’ll receive an email confirmation or declination within 48 hours. If declined, we’ll work with you to explore alternatives.

—

Communication Policy
Team Members will update you on your pet’s care through post-service journal entries in your account. If they have urgent questions during a service, they’ll call you using the number on file. If you receive a Team Member’s personal number, please don’t use it freely. Keep all communication in your account by responding to journals, updating service notes, or, if needed, contact our main office.

—

Team Appreciation
Our Team Members work hard to care for your pets, and a little appreciation goes a long way! Feel free to leave kind journal comments, rate services, or tip for exceptional care. It means the world to us!

—

Meet N Greets
A Meet N Greet is required before starting services to ensure we understand your pet’s needs and provide the best care. New Clients can schedule at *www.myhandsnpaws.com*; Existing Clients can book through their account.

—

Pricing & Surcharges
Visit *www.myhandsnpaws.com* for the most up-to-date pricing. Additional fees may apply in certain 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 if additional time or tasks are required.
– Account Assistance Fee: If you request us to schedule services, cancel services, update pet notes, or otherwise manage your account without first attempting to do so yourself, a surcharge of 10% of your most recent invoice (minimum $25) will be applied. Our handy Client Support Center is available to guide you step-by-step in managing your account.

—

Payment & Billing
We accept all major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover). A valid card must be stored securely in your account.
– Ongoing Services: Auto-charged every Friday for the previous week’s services.
– One-Time Services: 50% deposit charged upon confirmation; the rest is due by the last service date (auto-charged).
– Declined Payments: You’ll be notified immediately and have 24 hours to resolve it. A 10% late fee (minimum $20) applies after a second declined attempt.

—

Contract Terms
This agreement starts when you sign it and continues until either of us ends it. You can book additional services online anytime, depending on availability. By signing, you authorize Hands N Paws to enter your home and care for your pets without needing extra contracts for confirmed bookings.

—

Thanks for trusting Hands N Paws with your furry family! 🐾