Here we cover some of the many common questions you may have. If your question is not answered here, please feel free to call or text us at (865) 691-4465 or email contact@blueskypetservices.com.
Can I trust having a stranger in my home?
We would never expect you to feel comfortable with a stranger in your home. That is why we would like to build a trusting relationship with you. At Blue Sky Pet Services, we strive to be honest, reliable, trustworthy and careful. To put your mind at ease, we welcome you to ask us lots of questions at the initial consultation. Most clients feel completely at ease after the first or second service, and recommend us to others with enthusiasm.
What if other people need to be in my home during my absence?
We ask that you let us know if there will be other visitors in your home while you are away. If other visitors are allowed in your home, they should leave a note of their visit, and what interaction occurred with the pets, such as feeding, walking, potty breaks, etc. We will contact you if there are unexpected visitors.
What will you do with my keys?
Keys are normally picked up during the initial consultation. We prefer to receive 2 fully tested keys that we will code with an identity code instead of your name or address for added security.
After your sit, your keys will be stored in our secure area until your next service request and in case you need emergency service or returned to you, after the visits, upon your request. We will work this out with you before the first sit.
How do I communicate with Blue Sky Pet Services?
You will be invited to join Blue Sky Pet Services Pet Sitting software when you sign up for services. Most communication will be through the software but you can text or call (865) 691-4465 or email to contact@blueskypetservices.com as well.
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
We are licensed. We are also insured against any issues that might arise while your pet is in our care. To further protect you, all of our caretakers are bonded. We want you to feel safe with us.
Can you give medications to my pets?
Our pet sitters are skilled in giving medications as needed. We can give oral, liquid, and topical medications.
When is payment due, and what forms of payment do you accept and do you give refunds if I have to cancel?
At this time we accept Venmo, cash, and personal checks. You may also leave a tip for your pet sitter if you wish.
Total payment for your pet care services should be made prior to the first visit by the sitter.
We need at least a 24 hour notice to give you a refund for a canceled scheduled visit. We do understand that things come up and try our best to work with you on schedule changes.
Do you offer service on national holidays?
We do usually offer pet care services on national holidays. These services need to be scheduled at least 72 hours in advance so we can make special arrangements. We appreciate your recognition that our caretakers need time with their families as well. At Blue Sky Pet Services, we try to maintain a healthy work/personal time balance to better provide the best care to you and your pets.
Will you schedule services same day?
For existing customers, we will make every effort to accommodate last minute requests.
What are your business hours?
Our normal business hours are 7am to 7pm. After hours rates of $5 per visit are applied for visits outside of these hours.
What happens if my trip lasts longer than expected?
We will continue to care for your animals until we have confirmed that you are home, and we will bill you for the extra visits when you have returned. If you are able, please call us to let us know of delays or changes of plans as soon as possible.
What do I do upon my return home after a trip?
We do ask for a confirmation that you have returned home and that your pet and home are back in your care. We know that the homecoming after a trip can be a busy time, if we do not hear from you shortly after your anticipated arrival time we will contact you to be sure that you are home and pets are back in your care. The homecoming call is not necessary for day to day visits, dog walks, etc.
What areas do you serve?
Our main service areas are in West and Northwest Knox County and include Karns, Ball Camp, Hardin Valley, Amherst, West Hills, Rocky Hill, Northshore and Cedar Bluff, etc. We also do midday dog walks in the downtown area. Based on availability we can also offer service to other areas nearby by request. Based on travel distance, a mileage fee may apply.
If my pet soils inside my home, will I incur an additional clean-up charge?
Please schedule us to come frequently so that unnecessary accidents are at a minimum, but we do know that accidents happen. Our caretakers arrive prepared to address any issues that might arise during daily activity. We find that many pets that are “accident prone” actually have fewer accidents once they realize that their pet sitter is coming on a schedule. It takes about 2 days for some dogs to get into a routine. In the meantime, we are happy to clean up accidents and put out pee pads. We may suggest more frequent visits if accidents keep occurring.
What will you do with our pets?
Feed, walk, cuddle, play with, pet, brush, take out for potty breaks, clean up – whatever you specify.
Will you walk pets without a leash outside of a fenced yard?
No. We will not take a pet out unleashed on a walk or run outside of a fenced area. This is for the safety of your pet and is a requirement of our insurance. A leash and collar or harness must be provided for every dog.
Are your rates per pet?
No, there is no extra charge for multiple pets, all rates are by time only and most tasks are included. However, you will be required to reserve enough time for us to complete all tasks requested as well as unexpected tasks like accident clean-up, general clean-up, necessary contact with you, etc. We will strive to get everything done in the time arranged for your service, but any extra time needed will be charged to you and must be paid within 14 days of bill receipt.
Will you care for Birds? Reptiles? Small Mammals? Goats? Etc?
Yes! We have experience with many types of pets. And we take fastidious notes on all your pets, so even unusual pets that we have not previously cared for will get the best care possible. If you have an exotic pet please give us a call and we will work with you to create the best procedures for caring for your special pet and if at any time we feel we are not a good match we will let you know immediately and help you to find a better option.
My pet has special needs. Can you accommodate them?
We can support most pets. During the Initial Consult, we can determine if we are equipped to handle your pet’s special needs or if there might be a better option for you. For special needs situations, we will need to take extra time with you to make sure that we have detailed notes on anything that might arise in the care of your special pet.
What is your policy on inclement weather?
If we are unable to service your pet due to inclement weather or unsafe conditions, we will notify you via software, email, text or phone call. As soon as it is safe for our caretakers to get to your pet, they will resume service. During the Initial Consult, we will request the name and phone number of an emergency contact or neighbor that we can contact to assist us in the event we are unable to get to your home in a reasonable amount of time after your scheduled visit.
What if I have a question that wasn’t included here?
Please feel free to ask any questions that you have either at the initial consultation or by using the software, call or text to 865-691-4465 or email. We are always happy to answer your questions.