Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re booking a sitter for the very first time or you’ve had other sitters in the past, we’ve got you covered. Here are answers to our most common questions - and if you don’t see yours, reach out anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re booking a sitter for the very first time or you’ve had other sitters in the past, we’ve got you covered. Here are answers to our most common questions - and if you don’t see yours, reach out anytime.

Services & Scheduling

What Services Do You Offer?

We provide in-your-home pet sitting, dog walking, overnight stays, medication administration, garden watering, supply runs, private dog park visits (with or without pool), and trail hikes. Please click here for more extensive details on our services.  

What Areas Do You Serve?

We currently serve West Cary and Morrisville, as well as other parts of Cary and Apex. Please contact us for more details.

Do You Accept Last-Minute Bookings?

We do our best to accommodate! Availability can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays, so we always recommend booking early - especially for first-time clients who need a Meet & Greet. If we’re unavailable, we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction. Click here to make a reservation.

What Times Will You Visit My Pets?

We schedule visits in time blocks, not exact times:

Morning: 7:00am – 9:00am
Lunch: 11:00am – 2:00pm
Dinner: 4:00pm – 7:00pm
Bedtime: 9:00pm – 10:00pm

***Pets needing time-sensitive medication (like insulin) are always prioritized within these windows.

Meet & Greet and Onboarding

Is a Meet & Greet required?

Yes. A free Meet & Greet is required before your first service. It allows us to meet your pets, learn their routine, and review home access details. 

What should I have ready for the Meet & Greet?

Please prepare two working keys, any access codes, emergency contact info, vet info, and a quick list of your pet’s routine. If you’re booking an overnight, please also have a clean guest space with fresh linens and bath towels available.

Pet Safety & Health

What kinds of pets do you care for?

We care for dogs, cats, and small animals like hamsters, guinea pigs, and bunnies. We do not provide care for birds or reptiles at this time.

Do pets need to be vaccinated?

Yes - for everyone’s safety, all pets should be up to date on vaccinations before services begin.

Can you give my pet medication?

Absolutely. We’re experienced with oral meds, insulin injections, and even IV fluids.

What happens if my pet becomes aggressive?

If a pet displays unsafe or aggressive behavior, we will contact you immediately to try to solve the issue. If not possible, we may need to discontinue service for safety reasons.

Weather, Holidays, & Emergencies

Do you operate during bad weather?

We always do our best, but in cases of extreme weather where roads are unsafe, we may need to pause service. We’ll always reach out to your emergency contact for support if needed.

What happens in case of a medical emergency?

We require two emergency contacts and vet info on file. You may also place a credit card on file with your vet for emergencies. If we cannot reach you, we are authorized to seek veterinary care on your behalf.

Do you charge extra for holiday visits?

Yes. Holiday visits include a $10 per visit fee. Observed holidays include:
Thanksgiving (Day & Day After), Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Day After Christmas, New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day, Good Friday & Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, July 4th & 5th, Labor Day, Veterans Day, and MLK Jr. Day.

Overnight Visits

What’s included in overnight pet sitting?

Overnight stays include care from 7pm–7am, plus an evening and morning visit. We’ll follow your pet’s routine and provide comfort, care, and supervision. Many pets rest easier knowing someone is home overnight - it helps them stay calm and keeps your home feeling “lived in” while you’re away.

Are mid-day visits included in overnights?

No, lunch/midday visits are not included, but can be added separately.

What do I need to provide for overnights?

A clean guest space with fresh sheets, bath towels, and basic guest access (Wi-Fi code, etc.) is always appreciated.

Keys & Access

Do you pick up and return keys?

Yes, for a $25 fee per trip. To skip this, we recommend joining our Client Key Club!

What is the Client Key Club?

For a one-time $15 fee, recurring clients can provide two keys (one for us, one for your sitter) which we store in a secure, coded lockbox - no addresses attached. Members avoid key pickup/return fees and get the bonus of lockout assistance!

Payments & Cancellations

How do I pay?

We accept credit or debit cards. Payment is required at the time of booking.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancel within 14 days: 50% cancellation fee
Cancel within 7 days: 100% cancellation fee

Because your sitter’s time has been reserved for your pets, we aren’t able to offer refunds or credits once care begins (including for early returns).

Photos & Updates

Will I get updates during my trip?

Yes! After each visit, we’ll send you notes, photos, and a report card through your client portal so you know exactly how your pet is doing.

Will you post photos on social media?

Yes - unless you ask us not to. We will never post photos of your home or share your address.

Trust & Security

How do I know I can trust Pet Au Pair in my home?

Great question! We’re fully insured and bonded, have over 30 years of pet care experience, and treat your home with the same respect as our own. Your keys and information are always stored securely - giving you peace of mind while we care for your furry family.