Frequently Asked Questions

We frequently hear worrisome experiences using hobby sitters on popular websites after the sitter has not shown up to a visit, not followed instructions, or not provided updates. These services can be unreliable as it is often a part-time hobby for pet lovers that may not value the significance of professionalism and attention to detail. Alternatively, boarding your pets while you are away can result in stress, confinement, injury or illness. Gulfside Pet Sitters are professional, educated, reliable, and most of all, love animals. We follow your preferences and provide access to a personal software profile where you can update important pet information, schedule services, and view journals each visit. Unlike many other companies, we care for all types of pets, not just dogs and cats. We are ready and willing to administer medications and to care for pets with special needs at no additional cost. We are licensed, insured and bonded, and we have a veterinarian just a phone call away in the rare case that problems arise.  

In order to receive certification through the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, the pet sitter must complete a detailed course and a 500+ question exam. The course takes 1-2 months to complete, on average. It covers topics relevant to pet care, health, first aid, nutrition and behavior for a variety of animals. 

All new clients must contact us either by email, samantha@gulfsidepetsitters.com, or by phone, 239-666-4557, to set up a ~30 minute consultation. Please include the number and species of pets, dates needed, and your location in your email/voicemail so we can provide an accurate quote.

The purpose of the consultation is to get you set up as a new client and for you and your pets to establish a bond with us before your visits commence. We will complete a service agreement, veterinary treatment authorization form, and provide a copy of our policies. We will also help you set up an account with our scheduling software. From then on, you can request services directly through your online account. 

All existing clients may click the link on our home page to log in to your account.

Our Standard visits are 20-30 minutes and Premium visits are 40-45 minutes. An Ultimate 55-60 minute visit may be available on request for medical needs or many pets. Drop-In visits are 10-15 minutes to accommodate those that might need a quick extra visit but do not require full service. The length of each visit varies by the number of pets and their needs. We also offer a 9-10 hour Overnight Stay in addition to daytime services.

We currently do not offer 24 hour service at your home or boarding in our home. Visits in your home are scheduled in up to four of our 2-3hr time blocks throughout the day. We do offer an Overnight Stay on a first come first serve basis in addition to a midday visit. Cats require 1 visit per day, and dogs require 3-4 visits. Two visits may be requested for cats requiring multiple meals or for dogs with potty pad or pet door access. Up to two additional daytime visits may be added to overnight services.

We accept cash and checks payable to Gulfside Pet Sitters, LLC. Credit card information will be filed for emergency purposes and may be used for auto-billing at your request for a small administrative fee.