Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before booking.
Common questions
Answers to what clients typically ask before getting in touch.
- How do I know I can trust someone I found online to stay in my home with my dog?
- We meet every client and dog in person before the first booking. This gives you time to ask questions, walk through your home's security system, and watch how we interact with your dog. We provide local references from other Beaches families and carry liability insurance. You will never be asked to hand over your keys to someone you have not met.
- Will you send me updates and pictures while I am away?
- Yes. We send photo and text updates daily, or more frequently if you prefer. You will see your dog in familiar spots, on their usual walks, and settled in for the night. If anything seems off, we contact you immediately rather than waiting for a scheduled check-in.
- What happens if my dog has a medical emergency while I am gone?
- We are familiar with emergency veterinary clinics in the Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville Beach area and will transport your dog immediately if needed. We contact you as soon as possible with details and coordinate directly with the veterinary team. You will provide emergency contact information and your preferred clinic during the initial consultation.
- How much time will you actually spend with my dog each day?
- For overnight stays, your caregiver lives in your home with your dog day and night for the length of the booking, not just for sleeping hours. Daytime visits are scheduled for the length your dog needs, and we can add visits if your dog requires more attention or company.
- What is the longest you would leave my dog alone during an overnight stay?
- We structure our day around your dog's needs. For most overnight bookings, we step out only for errands or a short break and are otherwise present in your home. If your dog has separation anxiety or should not be left alone for more than a specific window, we adjust our schedule accordingly.
- My dog is crate-trained and anxious. How would you handle crate time?
- We follow your existing crate routine exactly. If your dog is crated at night or during certain hours, we maintain that schedule. We do not leave crated dogs unattended for longer than you have specified, and we provide calm, low-key interaction before and after crate time to help your dog stay settled.
- Are you insured, and do you have any professional training for emergencies?
- We carry liability insurance for in-home pet care. We are trained in recognizing common signs of distress and know how to respond calmly in urgent situations. Our experience includes dogs with complex medical needs, and we are comfortable following veterinary instructions and escalating concerns when necessary.
- Can you handle medications, post-surgery restrictions, or dogs with anxiety?
- Yes. We regularly work with dogs who need timed medications, post-operative rest, or careful handling due to blindness or anxiety. We follow written care plans precisely and communicate with your veterinarian if questions arise. This is a core part of our practice, not an afterthought.
- Do you do a meet-and-greet before the first stay?
- Always. We meet you and your dog at your home before any booking is confirmed. This visit covers your dog's routine, your home's layout and security, and any specific instructions. It also gives your dog a chance to become familiar with us in a low-pressure setting.
- What exactly is included in overnight care, and can you handle extras like bathing or errands?
- Overnight care covers feeding, walks, medications, and light home tasks like bringing in packages or adjusting lights. Bathing is available on request and is included in the overnight rate. For add-ons like beach walks, dog park visits, or picking up food or medications, those are available at custom pricing and arranged in advance. Everything is confirmed during the consultation so there are no surprises.
- What does the initial consultation cost, and is it required?
- Yes, every new client starts with an in-home consultation before any booking is confirmed. The fee is $50, and it is credited in full toward your first booking — so if you move forward, you are not paying it twice. The visit covers your dog's routine, care requirements, and any household specifics we need to know.
- What is the deposit and cancellation policy?
- A 50% deposit is required to hold your dates. Cancellations made at least 48 hours in advance are eligible for a deposit refund. Holiday bookings require full payment upfront and are non-refundable within the cancellation window. If your trip extends beyond the original booking, extended days are available starting at $50 per day depending on the level of care.
- Is there an additional charge for holiday bookings or extended stays?
- Yes. Holiday periods, including major holidays and peak travel weekends, carry a premium starting at $50 per night, and full payment is required at the time of booking. If you need to extend your stay beyond the original dates, that is billed starting at an additional $50 per day and is subject to availability.
- Do you serve areas outside Atlantic Beach?
- Yes. We serve the full Jacksonville Beaches corridor — Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Augustine, and Pablo Creek. If you are unsure whether your address falls within our service area, reach out and we will confirm. Proximity matters for this service because being nearby means we can respond quickly if anything unexpected comes up.
- Do you offer packages or discounts for multi-night stays?
- Yes. Custom bundles are available for bookings of three or more consecutive overnight stays. Pricing is worked out during the consultation based on your dog's needs and the length of the stay. Returning clients receive priority availability, which is one of the reasons many families book recurring stays rather than one night at a time.
- What is an emergency veterinary release, and why is it required?
- Before any overnight stay, you sign a release authorizing us to seek veterinary care for your dog in an emergency if we cannot reach you in time. It means we can take your dog to the vet and approve necessary treatment without waiting. You specify your preferred clinic and set a spending threshold in advance. It is a standard requirement for every booking and ensures your dog is never left waiting on a decision during a medical situation.
Your dog stays home. We stay with them.
Availability is limited. Returning clients receive priority — the sooner you reach out, the better.