Question 1

I'm very interested in your petsitting services.  What's the first step?

Accepted Answer

The first step is to contact Stephen to arrange a "meet 'n greet" with him in person.  To schedule a meeting, use the contact form,(undefined) send him a direct email (sjhopson at yahoo dot com) or text him at 330-338-4479. 
 
Stephen will email you vet authorization and video/photo release forms for you to fill out for the meet n greet.   
 
The purpose of the meet 'n greet is for him to learn more about what you are seeking, get to know you, meet your pet(s) and evaluate your home for safety, cleanliness and comfort.  He will bring with him an evaluation form that he will fill out throughout this very important meeting.   We will also be discussing various policies in place including but not limited to cancelations, etc.
 
If all parties are in alignment with one another, the next step would be to book the desired service(s).

Question 2

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Latham, Cohoes, Menands, Niskayuna, Schenectady, Rensselaer, Albany, Clifton Park, Halfmoon, Watervliet and Waterford.
 
If your town isn't listed above, get in touch anyway and if Stephen can help, he will!  
 
Special Note:  For drop in visits, doggie walks and pup sitting, he will travel up to 6 miles from Latham.   Stephen will travel up to 25 miles for overnight petsits of two consecutive nights or longer.

Question 3

How are your petsitting services "officially booked"?"

Accepted Answer

All petsitting services are considered booked/confirmed when advanced payment is received in full. 
 
Once payment is received, a sales receipt will be written and the desired services will then be considered booked/confirmed.    Confirmed dates are on first come, first paid basis.  Therefore, Stephen cannot accept holds on potential petsit dates.     
 
If you have any other questions about the payment method, this will be covered during the meet 'n greet!

Question 4

What's included in the "Daytime/Overnight" petsits?"

Accepted Answer

Both day and overnights include the following:
 • unlimited doggie/pet walks
 • Reiki healing sessions
 • regular feedings
 • play time/belly rubs
 • letting them out to the enclosed yard at certain times
Stephen will be in and out of your home throughout the time he is staying overnight or visiting for the day.   
 
Special Note:  For petsits that are more than one night, the last day of the petsit is the same rate as the overnight rate depending on the owner's time of return.

Question 5

I just need you to "pup-sit"  -- is that possible?"

Accepted Answer

Of course!   
 
Let's say you're hosting a party at your home or entertaining a guest who is allergic to your pet(s).   
 
Stephen would be happy to pick them up at your home and spend quality time for a minimum of one hour or more.  He might take them for a long walk on the local bike path, briefly bring them back to his apartment (if the pet is under 25 lbs) or visit a park such as "The Crossings" in Colonie or simply go for a nice leisurely drive!
 
Conversely, perhaps you are going out for the evening and you want a "pup-sitter" in your home for part of the night.  That's just fine!
 
For this service, his rate is $15 per hour for the first pet plus an additional $7.50 per hour each pet thereafter.
 
There is a 2 hour minimum for 'Pup-Sits"

Question 6

Do you board pets in your home?

Accepted Answer

Sorry, boarding services are not available at this time.

Question 7

Do you petsit for sentient beings other than dogs?

Accepted Answer

YES!
 
Stephen has cared for cats, rabbits, fish, chickens and many other gorgeous creatures, large and small.
 
Feel free to send an inquiry about looking after your pet if it's other than a dog or cat.

Question 8

Do you use your own supply of leashes, collars, harnesses, etc ?"

Accepted Answer

Stephen uses the client's leashes and supplies. This is for the client's pet's comfort and safety.   It eliminates the possibility of cross contamination.   The same is true for the client's cleaning supplies should it become necessary to clean up after the pet(s).

Question 9

Do you accept reactive/aggressive pets?

Accepted Answer

If it is determined that the pet has a history of biting or other aggressive behavior, for safety reasons, Stephen reserves the right to refuse service.  In general, they are better off with dog behaviorists/trainers who are far more experienced in handling these types of animals.

Question 10

Can other people have access to my pet(s)/home while you petsit?

Accepted Answer

In general it is preferable that contractors not have access to the home while you are away.  This is for the protection of the client's personal property, the well being of the pet(s) and the petsitter's safety. 
 
Stephen recognizes there are a lot of variables with the response to this question so this can be discussed in greater detail during the meet 'n greet!

Question 11

What are the holiday and/or last minute surcharges?

Accepted Answer

Holiday Surcharges*:  
 • $5 per dog walk, drop in visits and hourly pupsits
 • $10 flat rate for daytime/overnight petsits
*Holidays include: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President's Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving Day through Sunday and Christmas Eve/Day through to New Year's Day.
 
Last Minute Requests (i.e. made on the same day/day before):
 • $5 per for dog walks, drop in visits and hourly pupsits
 • $10 flat rate for daytime/overnight petsits