Do you provide dog-walking and pet-sitting services in Ankeny, Grimes, Pleasant Hill, Altoona, or Carlisle, Iowa?

No, I'm sorry I don't. I prefer to remain local to keep fuel costs and mileage down, which keeps my rates reasonable and fair. By limiting my service area to the westside of Des Moines, I can remain flexible in terms of last-minute bookings and can drop in regularly to visit pets that require extra care (e.g. - frequent potty breaks or medication dispensation).

Limiting my service area to my general proximity also allows for maintaining a small, discerning clientele comprised of local residents and neighbors seeking someone they can trust to pamper their pets while rendering unhurried, personalized service in their absence.

Where, specifically, is your coverage area?

West Des Moines, Urbandale, Clive, Windsor Heights, and the Des Moines-West vicinity (and just east of Fleur Drive/near Downtown).

This area includes the following zip codes: 50307, 50308, 50309, 50310, 50311, 50312, 50313, 50314, 50315, 50325, 50322, 50323, 50265, 50266.

What types of animals are you comfortable working with?

I am comfortable working with most domestic pets, with the exception of birds. If you do keep birds, one option is for you to have a friend stop by to see to them or to enlist the services of a second local pet-sitter. I do apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause, but your birds will certainly be better off being cared for by someone that is familiar with their special needs, diets, and proper handling.

Also, I am highly allergic to guinea pigs. While I can (and will continue to) tend to their basic needs, it's best that I not physically handle them.

Cats, dogs, ferrets, rodents (particularly rats and mice), reptiles, and freshwater and marine inhabitants are the pets I'm most experienced with handling.

How do I sign-up for your dog-walking or pet-sitting service?

After looking over this site and deciding what services are most appealing, you can fill out my contact form and I will reply as soon as possible (at your request, either by phone or email). We can then further discuss rate quotes, scheduling options, or any other concerns or questions you may have and arrange a time for our "meet-n-greet."

Prior to arranging a time to meet, please peruse my policies page to familiarize yourself with common procedures and practices.

Once I schedule pet-sitting visits for my pet(s), what happens next?

Scheduling is followed up by a "Meet-n-Greet" (i.e. - initial consultation) at least 3 days prior to the first pet-sitting visit. During this visit, we will go over all necessary paperwork and rate quotes. This time also gives everyone involved (particularly your pet) a chance to become acquainted and to note where supplies are stored.

Do you watch pets in your own home?

No, I do not board animals at my place or provide day-care services for a variety of reasons, namely that I live in an apartment and have a few pets of my own that may not be compatible with yours. Care is provided at your home only.

How much notice should I give DSM Pets when booking a visit?

Preferably call or email as soon as your plans are concrete. The more notice I have, the better I can serve you.

Please remember that pet sitters can book-up quickly, especially around popular "travel holidays."

Who will be coming to my home?

I alone will be taking care of your pets. I do NOT hire outside help or out-source as other pet-sitting companies so often do. This allows your pets to become familiar with me, as opposed to having different people visit your pets each time.

Is there a limit to the number of pets you will care for?

No, your rate is based on the amount of time dedicated to visiting with and caring for your pets. If the allotted time must be exceeded, your rate will be adjusted to cover the extra time to properly care for your pets.

What happens if my pet becomes ill or injured while I'm away?

If your pet needs medical attention, he/she will be taken to your preferred veterinarian or the nearest veterinary hospital if after-hours. If an appointment cannot be scheduled with your preferred vet, your alternate vet will be called. In the event that neither veterinarian is available, your pet will be taken to a quality, local vet clinic to receive necessary treatment.

You or your emergency contact person will be called as per the instructions provided on your Veterinary Release and Client Information Forms (filled out during the initial meet-n-greet and updated periodically).