More About Me and What I Offer You!

Why are you doing this?

Like many others, I'm figuring out a new way forward in a (hopefully soon) post-pandemic world. On top of that, I was in a bad jet ski accident on Memorial Day 2021, resulting in a TBI (traumatic brain injury). I've been on a full-time recovery and re-discovery journey since my world drastically changed. While I have recovered in many ways, I might never be exactly who I was. My past occupations, for example, are not tasks I can return to for many reasons, including a continued sensitivity to loud noise and bright lights. Taking care of my two dogs has kept me sane and grounded throughout this time. They don't think I'm any different and are happy I spend more time with them than ever! Walking Beau at ever-increasing distances has been a part of my physical therapy! After a year of doctors and therapies, I'm peeking my head back into the world to see what I might do with this new life. I've been house and dog-sitting for friends and family over the last year as a way to get out of my house and do something, and I always enjoy the experience. I'd now like to extend that personal service to you!

As the world opens up and people begin to travel again, many are faced with what to do with a pet while they're gone. Pet adoptions went WAY up during Covid.  Boarding is expensive, scary for your pet, and impersonal. I know I feel better when my boys are with someone I trust and even better when they can stay in their own home. I was a dog sitter through Rover for many years, a foster for Safe Hands Rescue, and a regular sitter for friends and family. Since I "foster failed" with Beau, my one-bedroom house has been packed with two pups and me! I've been taking this act on the road to help others as they vacation, work, flee the snow, and finally see family again.

 

Do I have to have a pet for you to take care of my house?

No! But it does need to be okay for my dogs to be at your house. I'm happy to discuss your restrictions if dogs are not "your thing"! I'm also completely open to other pets and have even had cats, fish, birds, and a guinea pig! 

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My pets don't know your pets; how do I know they will be safe and happy?

Here's the thing: I feel SO comfortable bringing my pets around your pets because of our experience doing this and my requirements. I REQUIRE a meet and greet at your home with all animals present before I work with you. If your pets seem stressed out, unsafe, or simply give you a bad vibe, we are probably not the right fit for you. The same goes for how my guys do at your house. They have co-existed peacefully with hundreds of "stranger pets" in my home, strangers' homes, friends' homes, workplaces, and the outdoors. I've lifted both of them in the air away from other animals attacking THEM because they do not fight back (easier with Bean than Beau!). When we are in your home, we follow YOUR rules. If you want your animals kept away from my animals, I will happily do so. I will respect your boundaries if you don't allow pets on your furniture. I understand your concern about your pets and my pets living together, and I will always make sure everyone is happy before working with you.

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Will you be able to take care of so many pets at once?

Yes! I am well-practiced and have walked up to 4 dogs at a time, as well as going on multiple walks (splitting pets up) to meet the needs of the animals. Bean and Beau often get separate walks daily since they move at very different speeds. I've sat for FIVE dogs at a time, and it's a bit chaotic, but I love it! I've taken care of different species together and kept the peace. My dogs do well around other types of animals.

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What will you do at my house?

I'll be there full-time to make sure your house is secure. I will bring in all mail and packages. I will water plants (if requested to do so). I will have lights on and be there, so it's clear your house is not empty. I will leave your house AT LEAST as clean as you did, and extra cleaning can be requested. I will clean up after my pets and ensure your home is "de-dogged" (though you may still find some dog hair). I will cook in your kitchen; however, I will use my food. Upon request, I can have your kitchen stocked with groceries for your return home. Upon request, I can clear snow from your sidewalk. Upon request, I can take care of yard work. I'm open to other requests as needed. Errands can be requested. Check out the Services page for a more detailed list of care and extra care options. In the unlikely occurrence of a disaster, I will be there to mitigate the damage as much as possible. If you have a pet(s), I will lovingly care for them like my own. I am experienced with seniors, rescue, anxious animals, giving oral and injected medication to cats and dogs, and grooming animals. Anything your pet is used to will continue while I am there so they can be the happiest possible! In the unlikely event that your pet and my pets become not pleased with each other during our stay, I will treat all animals equally. I will separate my pets so yours may have the run of your house. I will send you updates and photos of your home or pets (if requested). I will treat your home with respect and care so you will return to peace and no problems. I will be transparent if any issues do unfortunately occur. I will always go the extra mile to ensure my human and animal clients are delighted, safe, happy, and excited to contact me the next time!

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Will your lifestyle keep my home and pet safe?

Yes! When I am a guest at your home, I will not be drinking alcohol, and I never smoke or use drugs. My brain injury has me lead a pretty quiet life! Without your permission, I will not have anyone else inside your house. I am respectful of all boundaries you set. It's imperative to me to earn and keep your trust.

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 Do you require a meet and greet?

Yes absolutely. I will come to your home before agreeing to care for your house (with or without pets), so we can do a walk-through and discuss your needs. If you have pets, our pets MUST meet before I accept a new client. This is for both of our animal's safety.  If I have worked with you before, this step is not necessary. If you live outside of the Twin Cities, we can discuss options. 

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Why should I trust you?

I hope I've explained well why I am doing this and what I can offer you. In addition, I'm a licensed teacher, a licensed insurance agent, and a volunteer at a senior home where I have to pass an FBI background check and regular Covid tests. I have a BS in Education and a Masters's in Education. I have past clients and friends who are happy to share their experiences with you, and I hope one day to count you in that group! You can view my previous Rover profile (note that I am no longer taking clients through that platform).

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What is your payment & cancelation policy?

When you have decided you'd like to book me (post-meet & greet), I will send you a detailed invoice with instructions. To reserve your dates, I require a 25% prepayment of your total bill upon receipt of your invoice.

**Your dates are not reserved until I receive your deposit.** 

If you have to cancel your booked care for two weeks or less, your deposit will be fully refunded if you notify me at least one whole week before the start date. If you have to cancel seven or fewer days before your care start date, your deposit will not be refunded. Stays for 15 or more days canceled less than two full weeks before the start date will not have the deposit refunded. Full payment is due on or before the stay end date. Unfortunately, this policy is necessary to protect my business. I turn down other clients for your reserved dates, and late cancellations mean I cannot rebook the dates I held for you. I appreciate your understanding!

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Contact me today for an initial consultation, and learn more about how I can tailor my services to you, your pets, and your home needs. I look forward to meeting you (and your various floofs)!

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Take care,

Rachel, Bean, and Beau