Frequentlty Asked Questions

I primarily serve Novato, CA, with limited availability in nearby Marin County areas. Contact me with your address to confirm service availability.

Yes. Planet Dog Walking & Cat Sitting is fully insured and bonded, so your pets and home are protected during every visit.

Fill out the contact form, then we’ll have a telephone discussion, followed by a complimentary meet‑and‑greet at your home. I’ll meet your pets, review routines, discuss access (keys, codes), and answer any questions before your first scheduled visit. We’ll walk your dog together so I may observe behavior and get to know them. 

Visits are booked in advance on a first‑come, first‑served basis. You can request services through my booking/contact system, and I’ll confirm availability. Payment is made via debit, credit card or check.

Yes. I can set up recurring dog walks (for example, mid‑day walks during the work week) and daily cat sitting for trips or vacations, depending on availability.

Yes. I can administer most routine medications (such as pills, drops, ointments) as long as clear instructions are provided. We’ll review your pet’s needs during the meet‑and‑greet. I do NOT administer injections or fluids.

Yes. You receive GPS‑tracked updates and detailed report cards with notes and photos after dog walks and cat sitting visits so you can see how your pets are doing while you’re away.

In bad weather, I still visit your pet and adjust activities to keep them safe and comfortable (shorter outdoor time, more indoor enrichment when needed). In emergencies, I follow your instructions and, if necessary, contact you, your emergency contact or your veterinarian. 

Yes. I regularly care for shy, senior, and special‑needs dogs and cats. I adapt my approach to their comfort level and follow any special care instructions you provide. With cats, longer visits usually help them feel less anxious. 

• For cat sitting and pet sitting visits:
  7+ days notice: no cancellation fee
  Less than 7 days cancellation-$50 fee
  Early returns may be charged at 100% of scheduled visits

Clients must provide at least two (2) keys or a reliable access method before services begin. Lock boxes, keyless entry, and hide a keys are options. Keys are never labeled with identifying information and are retained until you request their return or destruction in writing. Shipping or delivery fees may apply for key returns.

If your pet needs urgent care and you cannot be reached, I will take your pet to the veterinarian or an emergency clinic and am authorized to approve treatment (EXCLUDING euthanasia) up to $1,000. Pet owner is responsible for all veterinary and related expenses and agrees to reimburse Planet Dog Walking & Cat Sitting for any costs paid on their behalf. I recommend owners discuss care parameters with Veterinarian office ahead of trip! Please note: in Marin my experience is that all Vets contact the owner for permission to treat and to obtain compensation. 

Yes. For cat sitting, twice‑daily, one‑hour visits are required for your cat’s safety and welfare unless otherwise agreed in writing. Behaviorists recommend twice daily cat visits if house sitting isn’t being arranged.
Recurring dog walking clients must schedule at least two (2) walks per week, not including holidays or your own vacations noted in advance. Pet sitting dog walks are occasional as needed.

Yes, as long as your surveillance complies with California consent laws and is video‑only in appropriate areas. Recording is not allowed in bathrooms or sleeping areas. If prohibited recording is discovered, services may be terminated immediately. Recordings of PDW staff may not be publicly shared without written consent.