What's the first step?
Start with our inquiry form. It gives us the details we need to prepare for a first conversation. We then schedule a complimentary video consultation to get to know each other, or an in-person meet & greet if you are close by.
Do we meet before you start?
Always. Every sit begins with a virtual or in-person meeting. Video calls are complimentary. In-person meet and greets outside our local service area may require a small deposit that is credited toward your sit if you proceed, or a travel fee. Just send us a message and we'll figure out the rest together.
How do arrival and departure work?
We agree on timing together. We can arrive when you are still at home or after you've left. We are also happy to arrive a day or two early to learn your routines, meet the animals, and get comfortable with your home and systems before you leave. We find that this overlap makes the transition smoother for everyone, especially the animals. The same flexibility applies to your return.
How far in advance should we reach out?
For sits of two weeks or longer, 4 to 8 weeks is ideal. For international assignments, 2 to 3 months gives everyone the best preparation time. That said, reach out even if your dates are close. Schedules shift and we may be able to accommodate you. Feel free to also check out our current availability in our calendar.
Do you work together or separately?
Usually together. Two of us means greater security and better care. For shorter or simpler sits one of us may handle it. We discuss what works best during the consultation.
What is your background with animals?
Alexander grew up on a cattle farm in Germany, surrounded by pets, and holds a Master of Science in Agriculture specializing in Animal Husbandry. He wrote his thesis about animal welfare and a more sustainable way of farming. Lena grew up in Taiwan and the US, always with pets at home, and helped out in animal sanctuaries or on farms. Between us we have over 20 years of hands-on experience with animals ranging from cats and dogs to horses, cattle, sheep, chickens, koi, and more.
What languages do you speak?
English, German, and Mandarin Chinese. Alexander is currently learning Spanish.
Will you stay in our home the entire time?
Yes. We live in your home for the full duration. We work remotely with flexible schedules, which means we are genuinely home almost all day, every day.
What does a typical day look like?
We follow your routines as closely as possible. Morning and evening animal care, property checks, updates with photos, and living quietly in your space. We cook our own meals, keep the home clean, and treat everything with care.
How do you communicate during a sit?
We send regular updates with photos at a frequency we agree on before the sit. We are always reachable and respond promptly.
Can you manage smart home systems, alarms, and security cameras?
Yes. We are comfortable with all of it. We go through everything during the meet and greet so there are no surprises.
Can you receive deliveries or let in service people?
Yes. We handle deliveries, coordinate with pre-approved visitors, and keep you informed.
What if our plans change?
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel or modify your booking, we'll do our best to accommodate based on availability. For earlier returns, the original agreed fee applies. We ask for as much notice as possible. For complete details regarding deposits, cancellations, refunds, and booking changes, please review our general Cancellation Policy.
Do you take other sits at the same time?
Your home and animals always have at least one of us fully present for the entire duration.
Can you handle farm animals?
Yes. We have cared for chickens, goats, sheep, cattle, horses, donkeys, and more. Alexander's MSc in Agriculture and his upbringing on a working cattle farm mean we bring genuine expertise to every farm sit.
Can you care for anxious or difficult animals?
Yes. We are patient, calm, and experienced with animals of all temperaments. We have cared for many skittish cats and anxious dogs who warmed up to us within days. They just needed extra time and patience to feel safe.
How do you handle medications?
We follow your instructions exactly. Medications, supplements, feeding schedules — nothing gets missed.
What if our pet gets sick or needs emergency care?
We contact you immediately if the situation allows. If it is urgent, our first priority is getting your animal to your vet or the nearest emergency clinic. We collect complete vet details before every sit. Luckily, it was never needed.
Who pays for emergency vet bills?
Veterinary costs are the homeowner's responsibility and are agreed upon in the sitting agreement before we begin. We ask for written authorization to approve emergency treatment up to a specified amount without waiting for confirmation, so no time is lost in a crisis. For non-emergency care we always consult you first.
Do you carry pet sitting insurance?
Yes. We carry professional pet sitting and house sitting insurance. Details are available on request and are included in our sitting agreement. We also recommend that homeowners verify their home insurance covers house sitters, as policies vary.
What if something breaks or gets damaged in the house?
We contact you immediately and document everything with photos. We do not attempt repairs beyond basic emergency measures — such as shutting off a water supply to prevent flooding — unless you have specifically authorized it. For anything significant, we coordinate with your preferred contractors. We treat your home with great care; accidental damage caused by us is covered under our insurance.
What if an animal escapes or goes missing?
We take every precaution to prevent this. We review all exits, gates, and escape routes with you before you leave. If an animal does go missing, we contact you immediately, begin an active search, alert local shelters and community groups, and remain on-site to monitor. We have experience with escape-prone and anxious animals and take this risk seriously from day one.
What about extreme weather — storms, wildfires, or power outages?
We stay. Our job is to be there when it matters most. Alexander is CERT certified (Community Emergency Response Team) and we have managed real emergencies including flooding and proximity to active wildfires. We know how to prioritize: animals first, then property. We keep you informed throughout and follow your emergency protocols exactly.
Do you have a car?
Yes. We are comfortable with all types of vehicles including manual transmission and larger equipment. We can take animals to the vet, pick up supplies, or run errands as needed. Details are agreed before the sit.
Can you work with our existing dog walker, cleaner, or other providers?
Yes. We are happy to work alongside anyone you already have in place. Clear communication and respect for existing routines matter to us.
Can you work internationally?
Yes. We have sat in Germany, Switzerland, New Zealand, England, and across the US. Alexander also holds a European passport, which makes assignments across the EU and much of the world straightforward. For international assignments we ask that travel and accommodation costs are covered.
What areas of the US do you cover?
We are fully mobile across the United States. Our current location is shown on our availability page. For longer distances, travel costs are discussed as part of the arrangement.
How is pricing determined?
Every situation is unique. Rates depend on the number and type of animals, duration, location, and scope of care. We discuss everything personally. No hidden fees, no surprises. Our estimator can give you a good idea about pricing
How does payment work?
We keep it simple. A 25-50% deposit secures your dates, with the balance due when the sit begins. For assignments involving travel, the balance is due two weeks in advance. We accept Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal. Full details are provided with the sitting agreement.
Do you sign a contract?
Yes, always. Every sit is covered by a written sitting agreement signed by both parties. It outlines the scope of care, emergency procedures, payment terms, and everything we have discussed. No sit begins without one.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that plans can change. Because we reserve dates exclusively for each client, cancellations may affect our ability to accept other bookings. Cancellation terms vary depending on how much notice is provided and the specific arrangements made for each assignment. We recommend travel insurance to protect against unexpected changes to your plans.
For full details regarding deposits, cancellations, refunds, and booking changes, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.
We have a 100% fulfillment rate and have never cancelled a confirmed sit. If for any reason we are unable to fulfill a commitment, you receive a full refund within 5 business days.
Is there a minimum sit length?
Generally, we prefer sits of one week or longer. When long travel is involved we require a minimum of seven days. Shorter sits may be possible depending on location and timing, so please reach out.