Question 1

Do you offer pet sitting in my own home?

Accepted Answer

Yes – that's exactly how my pet sitting works. Your pet stays in the comfort of their own home, keeping their familiar routine, smells and sleeping spot, while I visit to feed, walk, play and keep them company. I'll stick to their normal routine as closely as possible, including any feeding or medication needs.

Question 2

What animals do you look after?

Accepted Answer

Dogs are my speciality, but I also care for cats and small pets. Drop-in visits work brilliantly for cats – including feeding and a litter change – and for any pet who's happiest staying at home. If you have a less common pet, just ask.

Question 3

What's included in a dog walk?

Accepted Answer

Every walk is one-to-one – I don't pack-walk, so your dog gets my full attention. Walks last 30 or 60 minutes, with fresh water provided throughout, and you'll receive a photo update (a pupdate!) of your dog enjoying their adventure. Walks are available on weekdays and weekends, as a regular booking or a one-off.

Question 4

What's a drop-in visit?

Accepted Answer

A 30 to 45-minute home visit covering all the essentials – a potty break (or litter change for cats), feeding if needed, dedicated playtime, plenty of snuggles and a fresh water refill. It's ideal for busy working days, puppies who can't be left too long, or pets who prefer their own home.

Question 5

How much do your services cost?

Accepted Answer

Because every animal deserves personalised care, pricing varies depending on your pet's needs and your location. Feel free to get in touch for a no-obligation quote.

Question 6

What areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

I'm based in Bury St Edmunds and cover the town and surrounding villages, including Great Barton, Moreton Hall and Rougham. Not sure if you're in my area? Just ask!

Question 7

What days and times are you available?

Accepted Answer

I offer walks and visits on weekdays and weekends. My usual hours are 8am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm on Saturdays and 9am to 3.30pm on Sundays. Availability for regular weekly slots can fill up, so it's worth getting in touch early.

Question 8

How far in advance should I book?

Accepted Answer

As early as you can – regular weekly slots are limited, and over the holidays can be very busy. That said, I'll always try to help with short-notice requests if I have space.

Question 9

Do you offer a meet-and-greet before booking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, always – and it's completely free with no obligation. Before any first booking, we'll arrange a relaxed meet so your pet and I can get to know each other, and you can ask me anything. It also gives me a chance to learn their routine, quirks and favourite things!

Question 10

What do you need to know about my pet before you start?

Accepted Answer

At our meet-and-greet I'll ask about their routine, diet, health conditions or medication, behaviour around other dogs and people, recall, and anything they love or fear. The more I know, the better I can care for them like my own.

Question 11

How do I book?

Accepted Answer

Send a message through the contact form, email pawsanddplay@gmail.com, or call or text 07505 971146. I aim to reply within 24 hours.

Question 12

How do you handle my house keys?

Accepted Answer

I'll collect keys at our meet-and-greet, and return or retain them between bookings, whichever you prefer.

Question 13

Are you insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I carry comprehensive Public Liability Insurance through AXA and Pet Business Insurance. This protects you, your home and your pet in case of any unexpected happenings – a safety net I hope we never need.

Question 14

Are you first aid trained?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I'm fully trained in Canine First Aid, so I know how to respond quickly and calmly and get your pet the right help immediately if an emergency ever pops up.

Question 15

What happens if my pet becomes unwell in your care?

Accepted Answer

I'll contact you straight away and, if needed, take your pet to your registered vet (or the nearest available vet in an emergency). At our meet-and-greet, I'll note your vet's details and your wishes so there's a clear plan in place.

Question 16

What happens in bad weather?

Accepted Answer

A bit of British drizzle never stopped a good walk! I walk in most weather, with towel-downs for muddy or soggy dogs afterwards. In genuinely unsafe conditions, such as storms, ice or extreme heat, I'll contact you to rearrange, shorten the walk, or swap it for a drop-in visit with indoor play instead, so your pet is still cared for safely. In hot weather, I adjust walk times to early morning or evening and always carry fresh water.

Question 17

What's your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Life happens! I just ask for at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or rearrange a walk or visit without charge. For pet sitting bookings, I ask for at least one week's notice. Cancellations with less notice may be charged.

Question 18

What if you're ever unable to make a visit?

Accepted Answer

In the rare event I'm unwell or unavailable, I'll let you know as early as possible so you can make arrangements, and no charge will apply.