FAQs
Have questions? You're in the right place! If your Q isn't covered here, please reach out via the Contact Form—find it in the left margin on desktop or under the three-line menu icon (aka the hamburger menu) up top on mobile—or email petcare.amys@gmail.com. Let's make sure you have all the info you need.
Who is Pet Care by Amy?
It's me! I'm Amy. Hi. :)
PCbA is a one-woman show with occasional help from my sidekick/husband, Andy. It's a small but mighty operation with a lot of heart and a fair amount of dog hair. Read more about Pet Care by Amy here.
Why should I book in-home pet care?
Finding someone you trust to come to your home and watch your pet(s) in a familiar environment can make all the difference for you and your furry family. As someone with four rescue dogs who all have their own trauma and quirks, I understand that boarding or taking your pets out of the home for care isn't for everyone. Whether your pet struggles with anxiety, being around unfamiliar animals or is just more of a homebody, in-home pet care offers them support where they feel most at ease. As an extra bonus, you also have the added peace of mind knowing there's someone checking in on your home while you're away. I'm happy to cover the little things like bringing in mail or light cleaning, too.
How do I know my pet will be safe with you? Are you insured?
Yes, I am insured by Pet Care Insurance (PCI) and trained in pet first aid.
Your pet's safety and comfort are my top priority, and I handle all services with the same standards I would want for my pets and home. You'll find that I collect a lot of client information through the booking process: this is to make sure I have the best possible understanding of your expectations and your pet's needs. I'm big on communication—I ask a lot of questions and welcome information and questions in return. As a client, you'll receive regular photos and updates so you know your fur kids are in good hands during booked services.
Your pet's safety and comfort are my top priority, and I handle all services with the same standards I would want for my pets and home. You'll find that I collect a lot of client information through the booking process: this is to make sure I have the best possible understanding of your expectations and your pet's needs. I'm big on communication—I ask a lot of questions and welcome information and questions in return. As a client, you'll receive regular photos and updates so you know your fur kids are in good hands during booked services.
What services do you offer? Where can I find your rates?
Services include overnights, drop-in visits, walks and pet waste yard cleaning—all at the client's home. Pop over to the Services page for full details and rate options. If you don't see what you're looking for, please reach out! I always help if I can.
How do I use your scheduler? I'm having trouble requesting a booking.
It can be a little tricky the first time! Hopefully these step-by-step guides will help you put in the request. If you don't see what you're looking for or still need assistance, please reach out! I can always tinker on my side to make sure you're requesting the exact services you need or even make the booking for your and send an invoice to your preferred email.
How can I contact you?
If you have questions or aren't ready to book quite yet, the best way to reach me is via email me at petcare.amys@gmail.com or by using the Contact Form on this site—find it in the left margin on desktop or under the three-line menu icon (aka the hamburger menu) up top on mobile. You can also text or leave a voicemail at 779-235-0409. If you're ready to book, click over to the Services page for options. All new clients should start with a free Meet and Greet.
What happens at a Meet and Greet?
A Meet and Greet (or M&G) is where I come to your home to meet you and your pet(s). This is where we can talk about your needs, your pet's routine and what type of service you're looking for. It also ensures that your pet and I are a good match. (If we're not, don't worry! I'm happy to recommend alternate pet care providers if needed.)
What is your availability?
My availability is somewhat flexible around my full-time day job. Many of my clients prefer overnight and drop-in services, so evenings and weekends are usually busiest. I will always do what I can to work with you, so please get in touch! Initial Meet and Greets are usually booked for early evening Mondays through Fridays or any time Saturdays and Sundays.
What pets/breeds/sizes do you handle?
I do have a soft spot for little dogs—all four of mine are less than 15lbs each—but I'm experienced with many breeds and sizes. Most of my four-legged clients are dogs and cats, but I'm open to caring for other animals, too; you might need to provide more detailed care instructions depending on my level of familiarity. I am insured and trained in pet first aid, but I am not equipped to handle aggressive pets or some very large pets (depending on the environment and care needed).
What areas do you serve? How far are you willing to travel?
I am based in Champaign, Illinois, and mostly serve the surrounding area: Champaign, Urbana, Savoy, Mahomet, Monticello—try me!. Depending on availability and services needed, I can travel further, but additional charges may apply.
How does payment work? Do you have a cancellation policy?
You'll be prompted to pay for services in full when booking. A variety of payment types are accepted including PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay and most major credit cards. Tips are appreciated but never expected.
If I create a booking for you, an invoice will be sent to your preferred email and payment is due in full before the booking can be confirmed (i.e. held for you).
I have a 7-day cancellation policy for all confirmed services. This means that you may cancel or change a booking up until 7 days before the confirmed start time for a full refund. No refunds will be issued for cancelled or changed bookings after 7 days before the start of a booking or during a booking itself.
Thank you for understanding that these measures cut down on missed bookings and help protect limited availability for all clients as well as my own schedule.
Do you also book via Rover?
While I'm currently focused on building a private client base, I am proud to have attained Star Sitter status on Rover with a 5.0 star rating. (Thank you to all my Rover clients who trusted me on a new platform!) If you prefer to book via Rover, I'm happy to accommodate. However, please know that services may be priced higher to help compensate for Rover's additional fee structure.
You can also book directly with Pet Care by Amy via the Services page.
You can also book directly with Pet Care by Amy via the Services page.
Do you ever care for pets in your home?
Generally speaking, no; I do not currently have the appropriate license to operate an in-home boarding facility in Illinois, and my dogs can be picky about the company they keep. I do short-term and relief fostering for local rescue groups (always free for rescue pups in foster care!) and I'd be happy to help find a solution if you're looking for services more along the lines of daycare or boarding.