Welcome!

As part of onboarding, we require veterinary information and an emergency contact on file. We’ll also ask you to complete a veterinary release form, which allows us to approve emergency care if your dog becomes seriously ill or injured and you or your emergency contact cannot be reached. We will always attempt to contact you first, and you may set clear parameters on this authorization. This step exists solely to protect your dog’s wellbeing in situations where time matters.

Emergency Care Designee: In addition to an emergency contact, any clients traveling away from the home must designate an individual authorized to assume care of the animal if the Client is incapacitated, unreachable, or deceased. This information must be kept current in the client portal.

All dogs must be current on required vaccinations before any services are provided. The following documentation must be submitted and kept up to date in the client portal:

1. Rabies vaccination (required)
2. DHPP combination vaccine (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)

Physical copies of vaccination records are required. Services cannot begin or continue without current documentation on file.

All dogs must have reliable identification while in our care. This may include:

1. A physical ID tag attached to a harness
2. A registered microchip

If a microchip number is unknown, it will be scanned and documented during the initial consultation. Identification is required for any dog taken anywhere outside of the home and/or a secure fenced in yard.

A Note on Care Continuity: Care is overseen by the founder (the behavior professional), and provided by a small, familiar care team. The founder participates in all initial consultations, alongside one or more team members, ensuring continuity of knowledge and approach from the start. If a different team member is scheduled and has not yet met the dog, clients are given a choice:

1. Meet them in advance, accompanied by the founder or the dog’s original caretaker, or
2. Have the founder (or original caretaker) present at the start of the service to facilitate introductions, review care details, and supervise the initial interaction.

Throughout the service, the founder or primary caretaker remains available and on call to support the new caretaker, answer questions, and guide interactions as needed. When appropriate, a final check-in ensures the dog and home are prepared for the client’s return according to the client’s preferences.
Continuity comes from shared knowledge, communication, and oversight—not from reliance on a single individual.

Reservations, Changes, or Cancellations

All scheduling requests must be documented in writing to ensure accuracy. Scheduling should NEVER be done with your Caretaker. The client portal software is the preferred method, however, email or text is also acceptable. Exceptions are made when details need to be discussed and a phone call is warranted.

PLEASE NOTE:  Requests, Changes, and Cancellations made last minute may not be immediately seen if we are actively working with another client. If an urgent response is needed, you are encouraged to try another method. The fastest way to get in touch will always be via the client portal software or sending a text message.

Payment is required prior to the start of all services. Only Live-In Companionship Services & Behavior Services require a deposit to confirm reservations. Once services are scheduled and reservations confirmed, a final invoice is generated and emailed with a due date set for the day before services begin. This allows time to resolve payment issues before care is affected. Services will not be provided if payment has not been received by the due date.

This policy is firm and exists to protect scheduling integrity and care continuity. Exceptions may be considered only when discussed and approved in advance.

1. Accepted Payment Methods: Credit cards, PayPal, Venmo, Cash
2. Failed Payments: If a payment for recurring services does not process successfully, the client will be notified and given a reasonable grace period to resolve the issue. If payment is not received by the end of the grace period: Services will be suspended until the account is brought current.

We do not offer refunds, but we do offer credit. Credits are automatically applied to the next invoice, unless otherwise discussed. If you have a specific preference for how a credit is used, please notify the office.

• Credits may be applied toward any service.
• Credits expire six (6) months from the date they are issued.

Requests made with less than 72 hours’ notice are considered last-minute. For these requests, clients must call or text the office to ensure the request is seen promptly. Availability is not guaranteed, but reasonable efforts will be made when possible.

Please note, these policies allow care to remain reliable, sustainable, and fair to all clients. Clear expectations protect time, scheduling mishaps, and our ability to show up fully for every dog in our care.

Reliable access to the home is essential for timely, safe, and consistent care. Clients are responsible for ensuring that caretakers can access the property without delay or risk.

Parking Access: 

• Clients living in apartments, condominiums, or managed communities must provide safe, legal, and accessible parking for caretakers during scheduled services. 
• If free or designated parking is not available and paid parking is required, clients agree to cover any associated costs. 
• If parking cannot be secured within a reasonable amount of time, the service may need to be delayed or rescheduled. In these situations, clients will be contacted when possible, and additional service fees may apply.

During large events, holidays, or periods of restricted parking, services may be limited or unavailable unless safe off-street parking can be guaranteed.

Clients must provide reliable access to the home through one of the following methods:

• Physical keys
• Lock boxes
• Entry codes or smart locks
  

Access details must be kept current in the client portal. At least one backup access method (such as a physical key) is required for emergency situations. If access fails and the caretaker is unable to enter the home, the service may be forfeited or rescheduled, and standard cancellation or additional service fees may apply.

For gated or managed communities, clients are responsible for ensuring caretakers can enter without delay. This includes providing:

• Working gate or entry codes
• Call box instructions
• Key fobs or access cards when required
  

Caretakers cannot rely on: leasing offices, tailgating, or third-party access.

If community access fails and contact cannot be made in a timely manner, the service may need to be rescheduled, and fees may apply.

Access arrangements are reviewed during the initial consultation and should remain consistent.

• Any changes to keys, codes, or access methods must be updated in the client portal in advance. 
• If keys need to be picked up, returned, or replaced outside of the standard process, fees may apply. 
• In rare cases where access cannot be restored and a pet’s safety is at risk, emergency entry services may be required at the client’s expense.

Emergency Access & Unreachable Clients: If a caretaker is unable to access the home during a scheduled service, reasonable attempts will be made to contact the client and listed emergency contacts.

• If the client is away from home or traveling, dogs will not be left unattended due to access issues.
• The amount of time spent attempting contact may vary based on the dog’s circumstances (for example, a crated puppy or a dog requiring medical care will be prioritized differently than an adult dog loose in the home).
• If access cannot be restored within a reasonable timeframe and a dog’s wellbeing is at risk, a locksmith may be contacted to gain entry.
• Any costs associated with emergency entry are the client’s responsibility and will be added to the account. Payment must be made within two (2) days of the client’s return.

Access Issues During Non-Travel Days: For single enrichment services when the client is not traveling far and plans to return home the same day, services may be canceled if access cannot be obtained and the client cannot be reached.

Exceptions apply:  for dogs who are crated, not fully house-trained, medically dependent or requiring timed care.

• In these cases, the same emergency access protocol applies: Reasonable attempts will be made to reach the client, and if access cannot be restored in time to protect the dog’s wellbeing, emergency entry may be required at the client’s expense. 
• If emergency access costs are incurred under these circumstances, payment must be received by the next invoice due date. Services may be suspended until the account is brought current.

Guests Staying in the Home

The Service Provider reserves the right to politely decline, pause, or modify services if guests are staying in the home during a service period.

Why Guest Presence Affects Care: 

When additional individuals are present, the Service Provider cannot control how dogs are handled, whether doors, gates, or access points are secured, or whether routines, feeding, or safety protocols are followed. For these reasons, care may be declined when overnight guests or temporary residents are present.

Responsibility & Waiver of Liability

If guests, roommates, or other individuals are permitted access to the home during a service period, the Service Provider’s responsibility is waived from the moment those individuals enter the home. If a dog is injured, escapes, becomes ill, or experiences stress or harm during this time, the Client agrees that responsibility lies with the individual(s) granted access and not with the Service Provider. Any compensation, reimbursement, or resolution must be sought directly from the third party involved.

Workers & Service Providers

It is understood that workers such as, Housekeepers, Repair technicians, Landscapers, or Contractors may occasionally need access to the home. In this situation, the Client is responsible for:

• Notifying the Service Provider in advance of any scheduled workers
  
• Providing dates, times, and scope of access
  
• Ensuring workers are informed that dogs are present
  
• Ensuring all safety precautions are followed
  

Unannounced or Unknown Individuals: If an unknown or unannounced individual arrives at the home during a service period:

• Caretakers will not grant entry
  
• The individual will be asked to wait
  
• The Client will be contacted for verification
  

If verification cannot be obtained, access will be denied and the visit may be modified or paused for safety.

Safety Expectations for All Third Parties

Clients are responsible for ensuring that anyone granted access to the home:

• Understands basic dog safety
  
• Secures doors, gates, and entry points
  
• Does not alter feeding, handling, or established routines
  

Failure to meet these expectations may result in modified or discontinued services.

Purpose of This Policy:

We support and encourage the use of security cameras for home monitoring and peace of mind. However, Live-In Companionship Caretaking services involve caretakers residing in the home, which requires additional boundaries to protect personal privacy and maintain a safe, respectful working environment. 

• This policy applies only to Live-In Companionship Caretaking services and does not affect short-duration enrichment or daytime visits.

Disclosure Requirement: All cameras and recording devices must be disclosed in advance of service.

Indoor Cameras & Recording Devices

• All indoor cameras or recording devices must be fully disclosed prior to service and will be turned off, covered, or physically redirected during periods when a caretaker is residing in the home. This includes cameras located in common living areas, bedrooms, hallways, and  any space where a caretaker may reasonably expect privacy.
• Caretakers will uncover or reactivate indoor cameras when leaving the property for errands or other approved reasons. Cameras will be returned to their original covered or redirected position upon re-entry. 

Outdoor Cameras are encouraged and do not need to be disabled during service. 

Undisclosed Indoor Recording

The presence of undisclosed recording devices is a violation of service terms. 

• If active indoor cameras are discovered in common areas, Caretaker sleeping areas, or bathrooms during a stay, services may be paused or terminated immediately and no refunds or credits will be issued

Caretakers providing live-in services are entitled to reasonable personal privacy while living within the home. These boundaries support physical and emotional safety, professional sustainability, and mutual trust and respect.

All walking and handling equipment is evaluated during the initial consultation.

Required Equipment for Off-Property Services

Dogs taken off the property must be equipped with a properly fitted harness that is:

• Secure and appropriately sized
• Free from tears, rips, or weakened material
  
• Equipped with strong, intact clips designed for leash attachment
• Leashes must be nylon or leather only.

Prohibited Equipment

The following equipment is not permitted for use during services:

• Retractable leashes
  
• Choke chains
  
• Slip leads
  
• Prong or pinch collars
  
• Shock or electronic collars
  
• Head halters
  

Collars are not used for leashed walks due to increased risk of escape and potential injury if a dog pulls. If equipment does not meet safety standards, clients will be required to obtain approved alternatives before off-property services can continue.

Leash Use & Outdoor Access

Dogs are required to remain on leash at all times when outside the home unless they are in a fully enclosed, secure fenced yard.

Fenced Yard Guidelines

• Fenced yards are evaluated during the initial consultation.
  
• If fencing is damaged, incomplete, or deemed unsafe, dogs will remain leashed at all times.
  
• Dogs with electronic or invisible fencing systems are required to remain leashed in all open outdoor areas.
  

No assumptions are made about recall reliability. Safety decisions are based on environmental context, not familiarity or past performance.

Leash Behavior, Reactivity & Handling Safety

Mild pulling or excitement on leash is common and often manageable. However, excessive pulling, reactivity, or aggressive responses that increase the risk of injury may require modifications to services. Possible adjustments may include:

• Yard-based or enrichment-focused care in place of public walks
  
• Equipment changes
  
• Temporary modification or pause of services
  
• Referral for training or behavior support
  

Public walks may be suspended until safety concerns are reasonably addressed.

Fearful, Anxious, or Aggressive Behavior

Dogs experiencing fear, anxiety, or aggressive responses require advance planning and full transparency. If there is any uncertainty regarding how a dog may respond to a new person entering the home or providing care in the guardian’s absence, this must be disclosed prior to the consultation. Dogs often behave differently when guardians are not present. Undisclosed behavioral concerns place both the dog and caretaker at risk.

Additional Support Measures

When appropriate, additional steps may be required before services begin, including:

• Additional meet-and-greet visits
  
• Gradual or supported introductions
  
• Trial visits
  
• Behavior evaluation or professional guidance
  

If a dog exhibits behavior during care that compromises safety, services may be modified, paused, or suspended. In rare situations, a caretaker may leave immediately if continuing care would pose a risk.

Injury & Legal Responsibility

Clients are responsible for medical expenses incurred if a dog injures a caretaker while services are being provided. This responsibility applies regardless of intent and includes situations where:

• Nervousness, fear, reactivity, or bite history was not disclosed in advance
  
• A dog escalates behavior under stress or unfamiliar circumstances
  

While caretakers are trained in behavior-aware handling and safety protocols, dog behavior is complex and not always predictable. Bites are not necessarily the dog’s fault.

Under Florida law, dog owners are legally responsible for injuries caused to individuals lawfully on the property. Services for dogs with known behavioral challenges are accepted thoughtfully and with care — but when risks are knowingly shared, clients must accept responsibility should an injury occur.

The safety and wellbeing of dogs, caretakers, and households is always the priority. Services may be modified, delayed, or canceled due to weather or environmental conditions that create safety concerns.

Inclement Weather

Enrichment sessions generally proceed as scheduled in typical weather conditions, including light rain, moderate heat, or cold. However, services may be adjusted when conditions pose a risk, such as:

• Extreme heat or cold
• Severe storms, lightning, or flooding
• Unsafe walking or driving conditions
• Local emergency advisories or travel restrictions
  

In these cases, care may be adapted (shortened, modified, or shifted to lower-risk activities) rather than canceled whenever possible.

If weather conditions require a change:

• Clients will be notified as soon as possible
• Decisions are made with dog safety, caretaker safety, and situational context in mind
• Alternative care options may be offered when appropriate

When services are canceled due to weather-related safety concerns, the enrichment session will be credited to the client’s account. Weather-related cancellations are not penalized.

Client-Initiated Weather Cancellations

If a client chooses to cancel services due to weather concerns, standard cancellation policies apply unless otherwise discussed in advance.

Extreme or Widespread Events

During significant weather events (e.g., hurricanes, severe flooding, extended power outages), services may be suspended temporarily. Communication will be prioritized, but response times may be affected by conditions beyond control.

Heat & Environmental Awareness

Caretakers monitor dogs closely for signs of stress related to temperature, air quality, or environmental conditions. Care activities may be modified at the caretaker’s discretion to support comfort, safety, and regulation.

The health and wellbeing of dogs in our care is always the highest priority. Reasonable judgment is used when assessing illness, injury, or changes in a dog’s condition during services.

Illness or Injury During Care

If a dog becomes ill, injured, or shows concerning symptoms during a scheduled service, reasonable attempts will be made to contact the client and listed emergency contacts. Depending on the situation, care may include:

• Monitoring and supportive care
• Adjusting or shortening activities
• Administering medications as previously instructed
• Seeking veterinary attention when necessary

Veterinary Care Authorization

Clients are required to have a veterinary release form on file authorizing emergency care if the client or emergency contact cannot be reached.

• If a dog requires urgent medical attention and contact cannot be made within a reasonable timeframe, the caretaker is authorized to seek veterinary care using professional judgment.

Choice of Veterinary Provider

• Whenever possible, dogs will be taken to the primary veterinarian listed in the client portal. If that provider is unavailable, an emergency or urgent care facility may be used.
• Transportation decisions are made based on urgency, safety, and proximity.

Medical Expenses & Financial Responsibility

• Clients are responsible for all veterinary expenses incurred while a dog is in care, including examination fees, treatment, diagnostics, medications, and any associated transportation costs.
• Payment for veterinary services is the responsibility of the client and is not included in service fees.

Medication Administration

Medications will only be administered as outlined in the client’s portal profile and discussed in advance. Clients are responsible for:

• Providing medications in their original containers
• Supplying clear, written instructions for dosage, timing, and method
• Notifying the office of any recent changes to medications or supplements

Contagious Illness & Service Suspension

• For the safety of all dogs and caretakers, services may be paused or suspended if a dog shows signs of a contagious illness (such as vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory symptoms, or confirmed exposure). 
• Clients must notify the office promptly if a dog becomes ill or is diagnosed with a contagious condition. 
• Services may resume once the dog is symptom-free and cleared to safely participate in care.

Follow-Up & Communication

• Clients will be informed as soon as reasonably possible of any illness, injury, or veterinary visit.
• Documentation, receipts, and discharge instructions will be shared when available. 
• Services may be modified or paused following an illness or injury to support recovery and safety.

Limitations of Care

While care is provided attentively and responsibly, and Caretakers are trained in emergency care, caretakers are not veterinary professionals and cannot diagnose medical conditions. Observations are communicated promptly so that informed decisions can be made.

Services are offered thoughtfully and selectively to protect dog wellbeing, caretaker safety, and the integrity of care. In rare circumstances, services may be refused, paused, or discontinued.

Grounds for Service Refusal or Suspension

Services may be refused, paused, or modified if any of the following occur:

• Safety concerns for the dog, caretaker, or others
• Undisclosed aggression, bite history, or significant behavioral risk
• Inability to safely access the home or dog
• Failure to maintain required vaccination documentation
• Repeated failure to follow scheduling, payment, or access policies
• Illness or contagious conditions that pose a risk to others
• Equipment that does not meet safety standards
• Conditions that prevent care from being provided as agreed

In many cases, services may resume once concerns are addressed and a plan is agreed upon.

**Behavior-Related Limitations**

• Dogs experiencing fear, anxiety, reactivity, or aggression may require service modifications, additional support, or gradual reintroduction. 
• If safety concerns persist despite reasonable accommodations, certain services (such as public walks or off-property care) may be paused or discontinued while alternative options are discussed.

**Payment & Policy Compliance**

Services may be suspended or terminated if payment obligations are not met, invoices remain unresolved, or required deposits are not received. Repeated policy violations may result in discontinuation of services.

Immediate Suspension of Services

• In situations involving imminent risk—such as aggressive behavior, unsafe handling conditions, or environmental hazards—services may be suspended immediately. 
• Caretakers are authorized to leave the home if continuing care would compromise safety.
• Clients will be notified as soon as reasonably possible.

Termination of Services

Either party may choose to discontinue services with notice, provided there are no active safety or welfare concerns. In rare cases involving repeated boundary violations, non-disclosure of critical information, or unsafe conditions, services may be terminated without further notice. Unused credits remain subject to standard credit policies.

Communication & Transition

When services are paused or terminated, reasonable efforts will be made to communicate clearly and support a safe transition when appropriate. The goal of this policy is not exclusion, but clarity—so that care remains ethical, safe, and sustainable for all involved.

Why This Policy Exists

Providing individualized, relationship-based care requires trust, transparency, and shared responsibility. These policies exist to protect clients, their home and pets, caretakers, and the quality of care itself.

Major Holidays & Holiday Weekends — 2026

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 19

• Holiday Weekend: Saturday–Monday: January 17–19

Presidents’ Day, Monday, February 16

• Holiday Weekend: Saturday–Monday: February 14–16

Spring Break (Special Designation), Core Dates: Monday–Sunday March 16–22

• Extended Holiday Period (included): Saturday–Sunday before: March 14–15 and Saturday–Sunday after: March 28–29
• Spring Break Holiday Period: March 14–29, 2026

Memorial Day, Monday, May 25

• Holiday Weekend: Saturday–Monday: May 23–25

Juneteenth, Friday, June 19

• Holiday Weekend: Friday–Sunday: June 19–21

Independence Day, Saturday, July 4

• Holiday Weekend: Friday–Sunday: July 3–5

Labor Day, Monday, September 7

• Holiday Weekend: Saturday–Monday: September 5–7

Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 26

• Holiday Weekend: Thursday–Sunday: November 26–29

Christmas, Christmas Eve: Thursday, December 24, Christmas Day: Friday, December 25

• Holiday Weekend: Thursday–Sunday: December 24–27

New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day, Thursday & Friday, December 31 – January 1st

• Holiday Weekend: Thursday–Sunday: December 31 – January 3

Holiday Weekends Rule (applies to all dates listed):

• Major holidays and holiday weekends are considered high-demand periods and are subject to holiday pricing, scheduling limits, and deposit requirements.
• When a holiday falls on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or Monday, the Saturday and Sunday before and/or after the holiday are included in the holiday period and subject to holiday rates.

Spring Break is treated as a major holiday period due to increased demand, travel volume, and scheduling complexity. For 2026, Spring Break is defined as:

• March 14–29, 2026

This includes the core Spring Break week as well as the surrounding weekends. Holiday pricing, deposits, and scheduling rules apply for the full Spring Break period.

Event-Based Holiday Pricing

Clients who live in or near areas affected by major events—including but not limited to stadium events, festivals, parades, or large-scale public gatherings—may be subject to holiday or event-based pricing. This includes areas such as:

• Downtown districts
• Stadium or arena zones
• Event corridors
• Neighborhoods impacted by major festivals or parades
  

Examples include large sporting events, festivals, or regional events such as Gasparilla-related activities. Event-based pricing reflects increased travel time, restricted access, parking limitations, and scheduling complexity. Applicability will be discussed in advance whenever possible.

Final Notes

• Holiday and event-based availability is limited
• Services are offered on a first-come, first-served basis
• Recurring services are not automatically scheduled during holiday periods
• Deposits are required to confirm applicable bookings

All fees are communicated in advance whenever possible.

Holiday Surcharges

• Enrichment Sessions: $20 per session
• Live-In Companionship Caretaking: $50 per day
  

Major holidays and holiday weekends are excluded from automatic scheduling and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Behavior Services are not offered on Holidays or Holiday Weekends. 

Last-Minute Request Surcharge

Requests made with less than 72 hours’ notice are considered last-minute.

• Standard: $20 per request
• Holidays: $50 per request
  

This surcharge applies per request, not per service, and reflects the additional coordination required.

NON-Refundable Reservation Deposits – Live-In Companionship Caretaking

• Standard bookings: 25% non-refundable reservation deposit
• Major holidays: 50% non-refundable reservation deposit
  

Deposits are required to confirm bookings and reserve caretaker availability. Requests remain pending until deposits are received.

Cancellations & Credits

Standard enrichment Sessions

• Cancel ≥12 hours prior: full credit issued
• Cancel <12 hours: 50% forfeited, 50% credit
• Caretaker en route or arrived: 100% forfeited
  

Live-In Companionship Caretaking

• Reservation deposits are non-refundable
• Any remaining balance is issued as account credit only, No refunds 

Credits & Enforcement

• Automatically applied to the next invoice
• May be used for any service
• Expire 6 months from issue

Chargebacks & Reversed Payments

Any chargeback or reversed payment results in immediate suspension of services until the account is fully resolved.

Parking & Restricted Access – If prior arrangements are not made and free, safe parking can not be obtained by the Caretaker.

• Paid parking reimbursement: actual parking cost + $20
• Event-related or restricted access areas: parking cost + $20

Keys, Lock Boxes & Access Handling

• One-time key pickup: $20
• One-time key return: $20
• Repeated pickup & return per booking: $35 round-trip
• Lock box provision (if supplied): $50 one-time

Missed Services Due to Access Failure

If access cannot be resolved within 30 minutes, caretakers must continue with their schedule and return later.

• Client is responsible for the cost of an additional service if they need to return
• If staff must wait for or return with a locksmith: $50 coordination fee + Locksmith fees
• Locksmith charges are the client’s responsibility
  

Emergency access procedures are outlined in the Home Accessibility & Parking policy.

Behavior & Safety-Related Fees

• Additional owner supervised visits: charged as one standard enrichment session
• Trial visits: charged as one standard enrichment session
• Modified care requiring longer visits: determined case-by-case
• Additional support staff required for safety: determined case-by-case
  

Medical & Emergency-Related 

No additional fees are charged for:

• Emergency Transport to veterinary clinics 
• Emergency – Time spent at veterinary facilities 
• Emergency pharmacy pickups
• Emergency coordination or administrative time
  
• Giving Medications

Live-In Companionship Services include base concierge services when arranged prior to service beginning. If a non-emergency veterinarian trip is requested after services begin, A-La-Cart Concierge fees apply

Clients remain responsible for ALL veterinary expenses, emergency or not.

A‑La‑Cart Concierge Services (Transportation, Home Concierge, Errands)

*Live-In Companionship Services include Concierge Services ONLY when discussed and arranged in advance. Requests made after services begin will be charged as A-La-Cart, outlined below.

Need your pet picked up or dropped off somewhere?  We can pick up your pet from your house and take them to the Vet, Groomer, Daycare, or Boarding Facility, or bring them home from a facility. Or Both! During transport, we use your carrier if one is needed and pets without one will be safely secured in a carrier of our choice. Large dogs will be safely secured with a doggy seat belt. Cats and other small animals MUST be transported in a crate or carrier, we will not transport loose animals other than large dogs.

• One‑Way Transportation — $35

Service Details: Includes up to 60 minutes total time and up to 7.5 miles total travel. Applies to pick‑up OR drop‑off at Vet, Groomer, Daycare, etc. If either of those limits are exceeded, additional charges will apply.

• Round‑Trip Transportation — $60

Service Details: Includes up to 90 minutes total time and up to 15 miles total travel. Caretaker can wait on site if it’s brief, or return later if necessary.

Additional Time & Mileage: 

Any additional time will result in fees outlined below. Any additional mileage will result in fees outlined below. Exceeding both – both charges apply. Please consider this when booking during heavy traffic time such as between 7:30am-9:30am and 4:30-6:30pm.

• Time: $10 per 15 minutes (rounded up at 5+ minutes)
• Mileage: $1.00 per mile (rounded up)

Unforeseen accidents/severe weather/unreported construction are not billed. If we are aware of these in advance, we may make alternate plans for an earlier or later pickup/drop-off. 

When considering Mileage: Please map your requests in advance so you know what to expect.

• one‑way = home → destination or vice versa
• round‑trip = home → destination → home 

Doggy Baths are for pups that don’t need a full grooming. They’re done in the comfort of your home in your preferred area such as a shower, tub, or outdoors.. We can either use your shampoo & dog towels or bring our own for a small up-charge. This is an excellent service to add-on at the end of a long vacation or work week. What’s better than coming home to a fresh & clean smelling pup ready to snuggle?

All baths include: brushing before bathing, shampoo with your products or ours, rinse, towel dry, and final brushing. We do not have blow-dryers, so A quick walk afterwards is given to help with the drying process.

Doggy Bath Services

• Base Pricing: Up to 40 lbs: $25
• 41–75 lbs: $40
• Over 75 lbs: $60

Optional Supply Upgrade (company shampoo/towels):

• Up to 40 lbs: $10
• 41–75 lbs: $15
• Over 75 lbs: $25

If a dog becomes distressed, fearful, or unsafe to handle, the service may be halted; fees are retained and future bath services may not be available.

Doggy Baths are just for dogs. We can not bathe any other animals.

Thoughtful care relies on shared communication, accurate information, and safe access. Clients are responsible for the following:

Accurate & Up-to-Date Information

Outdated or incomplete information may impact the ability to provide care safely or as expected. Clients must maintain accurate and current information in the client portal, including:

• Dog profiles (health, behavior, routines, preferences)
• Veterinary information
• Emergency contacts
• Household access details.

Home Access & Environment

Clients are responsible for ensuring reliable access to the home at the scheduled service time. This includes:

• Providing working keys, codes, or entry instructions
• Communicating changes to access in advance
• Ensuring entry points are safe and unobstructed
  

If a caretaker cannot safely access the home or dog, the service may be forfeited and subject to standard cancellation policies.

Dog Health, Behavior & Safety

Clients agree to inform the office in advance of:

• Illness, injury, or changes in health
• Behavioral changes, reactivity, or bite history
• Use of new equipment, medications, or supplements
  

For safety reasons, caretakers may modify or discontinue care if a dog exhibits behavior that poses a risk to themselves, the caretaker, or others. In such cases, services may be paused until a plan is discussed.

All scheduling requests, changes, and cancellations must follow established scheduling and cancellation policies. Requests should be submitted through the client portal or in writing, as outlined elsewhere on this site. Clients are responsible for reviewing confirmations, invoices, and policy updates sent via email or the client portal.

Supplies & Care Instructions

Clients must provide any necessary supplies required for care, including:

• Food, treats, and medications
• Leashes, harnesses, or safety equipment
• Written care instructions when applicable
  

Care is provided based on the information and supplies made available at the time of service.

Shared Respect

Caretakers are expected to provide thoughtful, professional care. Clients are expected to communicate respectfully and recognize that care is provided by trained humans working within real-world conditions.

Household & Pet Supplies

Clients are responsible for ensuring that sufficient pet and household supplies are available and easily accessible for the duration of services. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Food and food/water bowls
• Treats
• Medications and supplements
• Leashes, collars, harnesses, and ID tags
• Litter (when applicable)
• Towels or wipes for muddy or wet paws
• Basic cleaning supplies (paper towels, sprays, trash bags, broom/vacuum, etc.)
  

Supply locations are reviewed during the initial consultation and should remain consistent. If locations change, client portal profiles must be updated in advance. Hidden or insufficient supplies create unnecessary delays and may impact the quality or efficiency of care.

If additional supplies are needed during service, caretakers may assist with store runs when feasible. The cost of items, time, and mileage will be billed to the client.

Before services begin, clients are responsible for reviewing and updating their client portal profiles to reflect any changes since the last visit. This includes:

• Feeding or medication adjustments
• Schedule or routine changes
• Access details (keys, alarm codes, entry instructions)
• Updated emergency contact or veterinary information

Written notes left in the home are helpful, but only portal updates ensure that all assigned caretakers and management have access to current information. Please ensure that essential supplies are visible or clearly noted—and yes, towels for rainy or muddy days are always appreciated. Florida makes the rules here.

Schedule Changes

Due to the customized nature of Live-In Companionship Caretaking services, schedule changes should be requested as far in advance as possible.

• Changes requested less than one week prior to service start are not guaranteed and may incur additional fees if adjustments require rescheduling caretakers or other clients.
• Changes requested within 72 hours of service start are not guaranteed and subject to a Last-Minute scheduling surcharge.

Early Returns &  Extended Visit Duration

• Returning Early: If a client returns home earlier than scheduled, no refunds are issued.
• Trip Extensions: If a longer visit is requested in advance and approved, services are billed at 1.5× the standard rate.

Travel Delays (Unplanned Extensions Only)

Extended pricing applies only when a client’s return is delayed beyond the agreed end date due to circumstances outside the client’s control such as flight delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies. Depending on the situation, flexibility may be offered on a case-by-case basis.

• First 24 hours or one additional day: no charge
• After that: standard daily rate applies

Cancellations & Account Credit

Live-In Companionship Caretaking services may be canceled at any time, however:

• Reservation deposits are non-refundable.
• Any remaining balance paid beyond the deposit is issued as account credit only.
• No refunds are issued.

If a trip is canceled entirely due to venue or travel cancellation and appropriate documentation is provided, services will be credited to the clients account. Clients may also choose to repurpose the booking for a different trip timeframe. No refunds are issued.

Holiday Bookings

Live-In Companionship Caretaking services scheduled on or around major holidays require a 50% non-refundable deposit at the time of booking.

Holiday Booking Process

• An invoice with deposit instructions is issued once the request is received.
• Receipt of the request does not confirm services.
• Availability is confirmed only after the holiday deposit is received.

If the deposit is not submitted, the request remains pending and dates may be released if another client confirms availability.

Holiday deposits are non-refundable, as confirming services during high-demand periods requires reserving limited availability and turning away other requests.

Travel Information Requirements

Clients traveling away from home must provide complete travel details prior to departure, including:

• Departure and return dates & time frame
• Flight, cruise, or travel itinerary (we often track return flights so we are up-to-date with delays and can adjust services accordingly so you have one less thing to worry about)
• Lodging information (for emergency use only)
• Emergency contact information (if you can’t be reached) & Emergency Care Designee information (if you don’t return)

This information allows for proactive care coordination, monitoring for delays, and timely response if the Client cannot be reached.

Return Notification Requirement

Clients must notify the office — not the caretaker — as soon as they return home, whether early, on time, or late.

• Preferred method: text message
• Alternate options: email, client portal message, or phone call

Failure to notify the office WILL result in continued services to ensure your pets are not left unattended, and charged at their normal rate.

Unreachable Clients & Continuity of Care

If the Client cannot be reached at the expected return time:

• Reasonable attempts will be made to contact the Client
• Emergency contacts will be notified
• Care will continue to prevent neglect
• Services may continue for multiple days while efforts are made to reach a responsible party

Transfer of Care (Emergency Situations)

If no responsible party can be reached after reasonable efforts, we may, in good faith and in the animals best interest:

• Temporarily assume care
• Arrange foster or rescue placement
• Permanently rehome the dog in a safe and humane environment

All decisions are made ethically, transparently, and with the animals welfare as the primary consideration.

Schedule Changes for Recurring Enrichment Services

• Ongoing schedule changes (e.g., moving a standing Monday service to Tuesdays) must be requested at least one week in advance and are subject to availability.
• One-time changes to a recurring service require a minimum of 72 hours’ notice to allow for coordination and communication with caretakers.
• All scheduling requests or changes must be document by submitting them either through the client portal, portal messaging system, or email.

As-Needed Enrichment Services

• Invoices are sent immediately once the request is accepted and availability confirmed. 
• Payments for As-Needed Enrichment Services are due prior to the start of the service.
• Failure to submit payment will result in cancellation of service.

Recurring Enrichment Services & Automated Billing

A credit card must be kept on file for any recurring service. Recurring Enrichment Sessions are automatically scheduled several weeks in advance by our client portal software. Invoices for the upcoming week are automatically generated and emailed over the weekend, and payments are automatically processed on due dates which are typically set for Mondays, unless otherwise discussed. 

• Clients may update or change their payment method at any time through the client portal. If you prefer to use a different payment method for a given week, this can be adjusted easily in advance.
• Exceptions to the card-on-file requirement may be approved ahead of time. However, repeated missed or delayed payments will require a credit card to remain on file to continue recurring services.

Cancellation Policy: As-Needed & Recurring Enrichment Sessions 

All cancellations must be submitted through the client portal, which immediately notifies both the office and the assigned caretaker. Cancellations sent by email or text are not guaranteed to be seen in time and may result in the caretaker still arriving.

1. Cancellations made 12 hours or more before service begins: No refund. The full paid amount is issued as account credit.
2. Cancellations made less than 12 hours before service start: No refund. 50% of the paid amount is forfeited, and remainder issued as account credit.
3. Cancellations after the caretaker has arrived or is en route: No refund. No Credit. Payment is forfeited.

Some exceptions can be made in emergency situations if proper proof can be provided. These policies help to ensure stability and reliable income for our Caretakers. Their time and care is both valuable and highly respected.

Payment Policies | Deposits & Discounts

A 50% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of scheduling a Canine Behavior Consultation

• The deposit secures the appointment
• The remaining balance must be paid before the appointment begins, or the consultation will be canceled

The same deposit structure applies to Canine Behavior Counseling sessions.

Financial Support:  501c3 Donated, Discounted, or Reduced-rate or Bundled Sessions

Bundles, Donated Services, and any other applicable discounts are available only at the Canine Behavior Counselor’s discretion. These decisions are based on the case details and anticipated scope of work. Pricing is discussed collaboratively rather than published. If you need this assistance, please mention it at the time of booking the initial consult. No guarantees are made for availability. 

Clients who wish to purchase multiple counseling sessions at once may request a bundled rate.

Cancellations & Rescheduling

• A minimum of 48 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule without additional fee
• With proper notice, there is no rescheduling fee
• Requests made with less than 48 hours’ notice are considered last-minute and result in a $50 rescheduling fee, due before the rescheduled appointment
• Emergency exceptions may be made with documentation

Late Arrivals & No-Shows

• Arrivals more than 10 minutes late, no-shows, or situations where no one is available at the scheduled time result in forfeiture of the full payment of service
• A new service fee with deposit is required to reschedule 
  

These policies apply to both consultations and counseling sessions.

CREDITS | No refunds are given, but credit can be applied to the account if the schedule change or cancellation is within policy guidelines. Emergency exceptions may be made with documentation.

How It Works (Step-by-Step)

1. Inquiry & Pre-Screening
   • Client expresses interest and describes concerns
   • Preliminary phone/email exchange to determine fit
2. Behavior Intake
   • Detailed intake form completed by client
   • History, context, routines, and goals documented
3. Consult Scheduling & Payment
   • Consultation is scheduled after intake and deposit
   • Final Payment required before appointment
4. Behavior Consultation
   • In-person or virtual evaluation with client + dog
   • Collaborative discussion of observations, influences, and initial recommendations
5. Behavior Plan Delivered
   • Written summary of consultation insights
   • Preliminary strategy and possible next steps
6. Ongoing Counseling – if needed
   • Sessions focused on implementation and refinement
   • Feedback and support provided as the plan unfolds