How do you handle keys?
Sitters do not hold on to your keys, keys are handled either via a lock-box or concierge.
If you live in a Condominium:
If you live in a condominium with 24 hr concierge the key is handled via them. The sitter picks up the keys from your concierge for each visit, and drop off the keys after each visit. Most condominiums have a release form that you would need to fill out in order for service providers such as cleaners and pet sitters to gain access to the unit - please speak to your building management.
We ask our clients to clearly mark the envelope containing the keys, the envelope would be addressed to Flying Duchess Pet Sitters C/o the sitters name and left with their or concierge for the sitter to pick up.
Some of our Condo clients prefer to use the lock box method. With this method, you can obtain a lock box from us during your initial consult, or you can provide us with your own. The lock box will be left in a pre-designated spot containing your keys. Usually it will be the place that Real Estate Agents leave their lock-boxes, when a unit in the building is being sold. This placement varies from condo to condo, some of the usual spots are the emergency exit stairwell, a lock-box closet, or behind the security desk.
For security reasons we do not leave the lockbox on the door handle or knob of your unit.
Please speak to your building management to find out what would work best for you.
If you live in an apartment or home:
Your keys will be handled via a lock-box that either you can obtain from us, or provide us with your own. During your initial consult the sitter will go over in detail the best location for it and how to access it upon your arrival.
If you obtain a lockbox from us, its yours to keep and can re-use it each time you need us to visit your pets.
Over the years, we have found that this is the best way to handle keys, it saves you money by avoiding that extra fee for key pick ups and drop offs each time you need to book a visit. It helps us use the sitters time efficiently, and during an emergency either on your part or the sitter, we are able to quickly and effectively handle the situation. And continue to provide your pet with the necessary care without interruption.
Its safe, it prevents accidental loss of keys from being moved around and falling into the wrong hands. All our lockboxes and contents are covered under our insurance.
How do I receive reports?
We have our very own Toll Free Virtual Voice Mail Box system from where you can access your sitters reports from anywhere in the world.
So whether its cruising the South China Seas, or riding the Orient Express, or just taking a trip up north to your cottage, wherever you go, you will have the ability to listen to your sitter's report as they leave it, by simply dialling 1-855 FLY DUCH (1-855 359-3824)
This is a toll free number and free to call from anywhere in the world using either a land line, cell phone, or computer phone. Its a free call and there will be no charge to you (its similar to calling a 1800 number).
Once dialled simply follow the instructions below to access your reports left by your sitter. You no longer have to wait till the night of to receive your Pet Sitting Reports, it will be available as soon as the sitter leaves it.
What if my assigned sitter falls sick?
We have a written Disaster Plan that addresses natural or man-made disasters, as well as a contingency plan to provide for your pet's care if anything prevents the sitter from completing the assignment.)
It is our policy to keep you updated on any possible disruption. Each of your neighbourhood sitters has a back up sitter for emergencies.
If an unforeseen circumstance prevents the usual sitter from making their daily visit, we at Flying Duchess will make certain an equally qualified sitter cares for your pets with no disruption to their daily routine.
What if my pet becomes ill while I am away?
Our sitters will have carry the phone number of each of your pet's veterinary contact information, so that help is always within reach.
If your pet needs more immediate care than your vet can provide, we will transport your pet to the Toronto Animal Emergency Clinic at 21 Rolark Drive. The clinic provides onsite 24/7 Emergency care by experienced emergency clinicians and technicians.
We will make every effort to contact you and receive instructions before we take your pet in for medical care. However, in emergency situations if or when you cannot be reached, we do our best to respond to your pets best interests by providing the medical care it needs.
We do have a vet on call - Dr. Melanie Bonder from the Toronto Cat Clinic will provide house calls for health emergencies where the pet cannot be moved, or transported.
What is your cancellation policy?
During the regular season: As long as we receive more than 48hr notice there is no cancellation fee. After 48rh notice a fee equivalent of the first visit is billed.
During the high season (June, July, August, December & Easter): We require a weeks notice, for less than a week's notice the fee equivalent to the first visit is billed.
How do I make a payment?
Full payment is required prior to first service date in order to book and confirm your scheduled visits.
Payment can be made by Credit Card (Visa or MasterCard) or by EMT (Email money transfer)
You can find a list of our up-to-date rates under the "Rates" tab.
Will I be able to have the same sitter each time I book?
We will strive to keep your pet sitter the same each time you travel, however during the busy season (Summer, Christmas and the long weekends) we do tend to get fully booked, and your sitter may sometimes have scheduling conflicts as well.
Your back up sitter will have all the information on file and your regular sitter will provide your backup sitter with any additional information as well, so that your pet's care is transitioned smoothly and seamlessly.
Do you sit Rabbits, Birds, Chinchilla's etc.?
Yes we do!
We would love to sit your exotic pet.
Our pet sitters come with a plethora of past experiences in caring for all types of animals, with all types of needs, both medical and emotional.
We have experience with Parrots, Love-birds, Budgies, Rabbits, Ferrets, Chinchillas, Geckos, Turtles, and even a baby Shark!
We are not squeamish and will do our best to educate ourselves if we don¹t have first-hand knowledge about your particular pet already.
How do I schedule an initial consult?
As new client, simply use our contact form to set up your consult. We will assign the sitter that service your neighbourhood to meet with you in person. Click here to schedule a consult.
As we do have a large roster of repeat clients that book frequently on an ongoing basis. We request our new clients to provide us with at least two week advance notice in order to make arrangements for the initial consult, paper work, and to address any questions that you may have.
Thank-you ~
Copyright 2010 Flying Duchess Pet Sitters: Toronto Pet Sitting. All Rights Reserved
Pet sitters. Dog walkers. The Pet Care Professionals. For Toronto.
We strive to make this website as helpful and informative as possible. Each service is customized to the specific needs and preferences of the client. Whether you are looking for Toronto pet sitting, Toronto cat sitting, dog walking, overnight care or live in care, we have the perfect solution to assure your pet is in the best hands during your absence. We hope these questions and answers will assist and make your search that much simpler.
Toronto Pet Sitting FAQ
Call Toll Free :1 855-FLY-DUCH
1 855 359 -3824
Flying Duchess
