Frequently Asked Questions

Pet Sitting Basics

You have questions... We have answers

Do you offer boarding?

At this time we do not offer boarding. We have found that pets are more comfortable and relaxed in their environment and on their normal routine which is why we come to you! This way the stress level for your pet is minimal and you won't have to worry about returning for a set time to pick them up from somewhere else.

What does Pet Sitting consist of?

Our pet sits we refer to as a visit or walk. A visit is a scheduled time in which we come to your home and care for your animals. HPPS will feed, medicate, walk/exercise, water, clean up, and love on each of your pets according to your instructions that you have provided through our online registry. Your sitter will send a picture of your pet during their visit through our system. As a courtesy, we also check for any packages and mail, keep trash on schedule and allow your house to look occupied.

What kind of pets do you care for?

One of our favorite questions. We have cared for dogs, cats, rabbits, reptiles (including snakes), turtles, guinea pigs, horses, goats, pigs, cows, donkeys, birds, ferrets, hedgehogs, and fish. We have several years experience with most of these species so you can have a peace of mind that your animals are well cared for with knowledgeable sitters.

Can I book services through the sitter rather than the business?

While we love that you are comfortable with your sitter, we require you to book through the site rather than only with your sitter. When booked through the business, we can guarantee that things are covered under our insurance. All liability is waived from Happy Paws Pet Sitting when not booked through Happy Paws Pet Sitting web system.

Pet Sitting Scheduling

Do you schedule services in my area?

Happy Paws Pet Sitting covers much of Greenville County in Upstate South Carolina. Please include address so that we can make you aware if we have sitters in your area. We keep our sitters close to home and other clients to conserve on gas.

How early or when do I need to request services?

If you are a new client it is better to book far enough in advance to set up a meet and greet to ensure the pet is comfortable with their sitter. Our online system allows you to make appointments 24 hours a day/365 days a year. If you need service less than a 24 hour notice please text HPPS directly at 864-735-8502.

How should I pay?

We require you to have a credit card on file since payment is due before the requested services begin and prepay when you are setting up for the visits/walks. If you would prefer to pay through Venmo or with a check please contact us to get that set up before the service dates.

What are the times my pet will be visited?

Our sitters are available from 7am-9pm. You can schedule services Early Morning 7am-9am Mid Morning 9am-12pm Afternoon 12pm-4pm Evening 6pm-9pm. Overnights are also available and include 10 hours overnight from 9pm to 7am. Extended care stays are round the clock care while you are away. Holidays have limited availability and fill up very quickly. There is also a holiday fee on holidays and the days surrounding those holidays.

Pet Sitting and Your Pet

Can you give medication?

YES! Our staff is able to give oral and topical medication, as well as, administer fluids and injectable medication to your pets. You are always welcome to show what you have shown to be easier for your pet to reduce stress on your pet.

What is a meet and greet?

A meet and greet is the initial meeting between client, sitter and pet. The sitter will go over instructions per owner for daily care of the pet. They will ask questions to make sure everyone is on the same page. They will present our medication chart is pets are on medication. If you have forgotten to include anything on the site for daily care this is the time to let the sitter know.

What are the minimum amount of visits for my pets?

For safety reasons, such as leaks, break ins, etc, cats and pocket pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and birds are required at least one visit a day. For dogs, liability AND health reasons the minimum amount of visits when the owner is out of town is 2 (1 every 12 hours). This is to prevent health issues such as UTI, constipation, and other internal ailments. We are also present in case something happens at the house while the owner is gone such as roof leak or the animal has gotten hurt. For daily walks and drop-ins 1 visit a day is acceptable when the owner is home (in town).

Pet Sitting and Friends

I have a friend that will be checking in on the pets as well. Is that ok?

We ask that you only allow us access to the property while you are gone to minimize confusion and risk. For liability reasons, we are unable to job-share with other pet-care givers during your absence, i.e., other non-Happy Paws Pet Sitting pet sitters, your friends, family, neighbors, etc. Once you retain Happy Paws Pet Sitting to care for your animals, we are then legally responsible for their care. Any introduction of other caretakers or persons into your household during your absence will result in our inability to continue care. If you think your situation is unique, please let us know prior to your departure and we'll be happy to discuss it with you. If it is determined that another person will be job sharing, all liability of Happy Paws Pet Sitting will be waived.

Pet Sitting and Emergencies

What happens if there is an emergency with my pet?

In addition to our traditional services we also are able to take your pet to the vet in case something were to happen. This is why we request that you let your vet know that you are going out of town and have a pet sitter in case they can't get a hold of you for approval. We are more than happy to also hold for the livestock vet as well if that is needed. Please have an emergency contact on file in case we need further assistance and can't get a hold of you. Happy Paws Upstate also works closely with Vet Chat Now, a mobile vet that will come to you and your pet at home.