Who do I contact if I would like to schedule visits or make changes/cancellations?
Both the walker/boarder, and Parks & Barks directly. This will eliminate all possible communication errors and more importantly, will allow us to keep accurate records of service for insurance purposes. In the unlikely event that something were to happen during a board or a visit, and we were unaware of the booking, insurance would not cover any claims made as we would have no record of the updated service. Contacting us directly will always confirm you are 100% protected.
What is the best way to contact you?
Email is the preferred method so that we may have a record of all correspondence.
Will I have the same walker each time?
In short, yes. We prefer to assign only one walker to a client in order to establish a bond between the walker and the pet, and with the client as well. You may have to work with another walker in the event of a personal emergency, illness, or if the walker is out of town. In that case, we will do our best to give you as much notice as possible, and if time allows we can arrange an introduction.
When another walker is needed, you will be notified of the details and asked to accommodate. Upon your approval, access to your home will be passed to the temporary walker along with any details that they will need to know.
Can you guarantee my walker will arrive at the exact time I have specified?
During your meet & greet with your walker, the two of you will discuss a preferred time range you would like your pet visited within. We have to provide a one-hour window on either side of your requested visit time for scheduling purposes. Issues arise when all our clients want their dog walked at exactly 11 am as this is not possible. (ie. if you would like your pet visited at 12pm, it would be acceptable for your walker to arrive between 11am-1pm).
We also provide this one-hour window to account for any traffic, in between driving time, schedule changes, inclement weather, or issues your walker may face during their day. If you require a more specific time because your pet is crated, needs to be fed, or needs medication, please let your walker know and we will do our best to arrive within a shorter window in those situations! Even though we cannot guarantee an exact arrival time, our walkers do their best to arrive as close to your requested time as possible.
What happens to walks in inclement weather?
We still complete the visit within the time frame you’ve requested. If there is thunder or lightning present, for the safety of your pet(s) and our walkers, we will try to get them to do their business as quickly as possible and then spend the remainder of the visit inside for cuddles and play.
What day will I receive the invoice?
Invoices are sent out weekly via email. We kindly ask that they are paid within two weeks of the invoice date.
All boards and pet sits that are longer than one overnight stay are subject to a 25% deposit to be paid prior to the board.
Is there a cancellation fee?
We understand that things can come up suddenly.
We kindly ask for 24 hours notice for changes or cancellations for walks. We charge the client the full amount if the cancellation is made while the walker is on their way, or if the walker shows up at the clients’ house to encounter a cancellation that was never communicated.
For boarding, because of its high demand and limited availability, we ask for 48 hours notice to cancel. The client will lose their deposit if a cancellation or change is made under the 48 hour period.
How can I pay?
We have the following methods of payment:
INTERAC EMAIL MONEY TRANSFER
- Email abbey@parksandbarks.ca is set up for e-transfers. Take note that your bank may charge a fee per transfer.
VISA OR MASTERCARD
- Payment can be made directly through your invoice. Pre-authorized credit card payments are also available – contact us for more info!
Is it customary to tip your walker/boarder?
No, and it is not expected by any means. However, should you choose, gratuities are not declined.