Our Story
Paws + Hooves was founded with a mission to provide exceptional pet sitting services that cater to all species. With over 30 years in the pet care industry, our dedicated team understands the unique needs of different animals, from horses to small mammals. Our passion drives us to ensure your pets receive unparalleled attention and care.
Licensed & Insured
For Your Peace of Mind
At Paws + Hooves- A Pet Sitter Company, your pets' safety and your peace of mind are our top priorities. We're proud to be a licensed and insured company, in the State of Ohio, giving you the confidence that your animals are in responsible, professional hands.
Whether we're caring for your cats, dogs, horses, or exotic pets, you can rest easy knowing we're fully prepared and protected-- so you don't have to worry while you are away.
Trusted. Certified. Compassionate care-- every time.
Why Pet Owners Trust Us
The Paws + Hooves Difference:
- Over 30 years of Animal Care Experience- Pet sitting backed by a lifetime of love and hands-on knowledge
- Animal Owners Ourselves- We treat your pets like our own because we get it
- Meet & Greet Before Every Service- Ensures compatibility, builds trust, and clarifies care needs
- Wider Regional Service Area- Serving beyond our core area, with a transparent mileage fee
- Veterinary & Emergency Preparedness- Experienced in administering medications and responding to urgent needs
- Open Communication- Updates, check-ins, and pet reports so you're never out of the loop
- Standard Care Packages- Convenient pre-built options for common needs
- Custom Care Plans- Tailored care for pets with unique routines or medical needs
- Add-on Services Available- for specialized care (medications, grooming, groundwork, & more)
- Overnight Stays- available for clients a certain distance away or unique situations
- House Sitting- Trusted home care offered for non-pet owners too
- Extensive Horse & Livestock Knowledge- Specialized in equine and farm animals
- Experience with Exotics, Seniors, and Multi-Pet Households- Confident and compassionate care for all creatures
- Future-Oriented Vision- A dream to create a rescue sanctuary and care-based retreat for animals
- Peace of Mind--Licensed, Insured, & Medically Trained Soon!- Your trust matters to us. We are fully licensed and insured, and getting certified in PET CPR & First Aid, so you can feel even more confident in the care that we provide.
Whether you need a quick midday drop-in or a fully tailored care plan for a barn full of animals, we offer flexible, compassionate service designed with your pets in mind.
Our Service Area
20 Miles Radius From Avon Lake
We proudly serve pets and their families within a 20-mile radius of our home base in Avon Lake, Ohio---including towns like Avon, Bay Village, Sheffield Lake, Westlake, Sheffield, North Ridgeville, North Olmsted, Lorain, Fairview Park, Rocky River, Elyria, Olmsted Falls, Grafton, Lakewood, Lagrange, Columbia Station, Amherst, and Berea.
Need care outside of the radius? We're happy to travel beyond 20 miles for the right situation, especially for Overnight Stays and extended care needs.
Over 20 miles that we have traveled to: Vermilion, Medina, Middleburg Heights, Spencer, Chatham, Litchfield, Strongsville, Oberlin, North Royalton, Brunswick, Wakeman, and other cities.
Please note: mileage fees apply based on distance.
- First 20 miles round-trip: Included in service price.
- Over 20 miles round-trip: $0.50 per mile will be charged.
- Over 50 miles round-trip: $065 per mile will be charged.
- Over 80 miles round trip: $1.00 per mile will be charged.
*A Flat Travel Fee may be available as an alternative to our per-mile charge, based on your location and care needs. Just ask--we're happy to discuss the best option for you!
Flat Travel Fee (Per Day) Breakdown:
- Within 25 miles: $10/day
- Within 30 miles: $15/day
- Within 35 miles: $20/day
- Within 40 miles: $25/day
- Within 45 miles: $30/day
- Within 50 miles: $35/day
- Over 50 miles: $45-65/day, depending on total distance and visit duration.
- Over 80 miles: $75+/day, quoted individually based on location and care package.
Not sure if you are within range? Contact us and we will be happy to confirm or provide a custom quote.
Holidays & After Hours
Because Pets Deserve Love And Attention Every Day Of The Year!
At Paws + Hooves, we understand that pets still need love and care--even when you're away during holidays or need support outside of typical hours. That's why we proudly offer pet sitting services during major holidays and for early morning, late-night, or overnight needs, when available.
Whether it's New Year's Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July 4th, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or another special occasion, you can count on us to provide dependable and compassionate care. We know how important it is to have peace of mind during your time away, which is why we treat your pets like family--no matter the date or time.
A small surcharge may be applied for visits scheduled on major holidays or outside of normal hours, typically starting at $15 to $25+ added to the Standard Care Package of your choosing. Availability for these times is limited and may fill up quickly, so we recommend booking in advance to ensure your reservation. Mileage fees may be applicable for outside of the radius of our home base.
Key Handling
Secure Handling That You Can Trust.
At Paws + Hooves, we take key handling and home access very seriously. Your security and peace of mind are just as important to us as the care of your pets.
Physical Keys: All client keys are carefully labeled using a secure system--never with your name, address, or identifying details. When not in use, keys are safely stored in a locked and organized location. We offer flexible options for pick-up and drop-off, or you may leave your key in a designated location or lockbox. For repeat clients, we are happy to retain a key on file for seamless future visits.
Keypads & Garage Access: We are happy to access your home using a door keypad or garage code. Please provide clear written instructions prior to your first scheduled service. All codes are kept confidential and stored securely for your protection.
Key Return & Retention: At the end of your scheduled visits, you can choose to have your key returned in person, left in a safe location, or securely held for future services. For safety reasons, we do not leave keys unattended in mailboxes or under doormats unless specifically requested in writing.
If you'd prefer to provide a lockbox or smart entry system, we're happy to accommodate that as well!
Your trust is never taken for granted-- and we are committed to respecting and protecting your home just as we do your pets.
Photos & Videos
Can We Share Your Pet's Photos?
We love capturing sweet, silly, and special moments with your pets during our visits! With your permission, we may share select photos on our social media pages to showcase the amazing animals we care for.
Your pet's safety and privacy always come first. We never share names, locations, or identifying information--just cute faces and happy tails!
You can opt out anytime.
Loyalty Program
Because we love our clients (and their pets)!
How it Works:
- Every completed visit earns 1 Paw Point.
- Every Overnight Stay earns 2 Paw Points.
- Every referral that books services earns 3 Paw Points.
Rewards:
- 10 Paw Points = $10 off your next booking.
- 20 Paw Points = $25 off your next booking.
- 30 Paw Points = FREE Standard Care Visit (up to $50 value)
Extra Perks:
- Birthday Treats: Pets receive a small gift or treat during their birthday month.
- Priority Booking: Loyalty members get early access to holiday and after hours scheduling.
- Surprise Bonus Days: Double points offered a few times a year.
The Fine Print:
- Points never expired as long as you have one booking per year.
- Points cannot be combined with other discounts, but can be applied to any service.
- Points are tracked automatically by Paws + Hooves.
Testimonials
What Our Clients Say...
"Absolutely the best care we've ever had for our animals!" John treated our dogs and horses like family. From daily feedings to turnout and even giving meds to our senior gelding, everything was handled perfectly. I never had to worry while we were away. ---Kelly, Wellington, OH
"They cared for my bearded dragon, dog, and parrot without hesitation!" It's nearly impossible to find someone comfortable with exotic pets, but Beth was amazing. She followed our care instructions exactly and kept everything spotless. We're lucky to have found them!" ---Jared, Lakewood, OH
"John even cleaned our stalls and scrubbed water buckets!" We left for a 5-day trip and came home to happy horses, clean stalls, and everything exactly as we left it. I truly felt like he cared for the farm like it was his own. ---David, Medina, OH
"Flexible, trustworthy, and amazing with our senior pets." Our dog is 15 and blind, they handled her with so much patience and love. They even gave her daily meds and stayed overnight when needed. Highly recommend them for any pet family! ---Samantha, Westlake, OH
"Professional, reliable, and so kind." We've hired many sitters over the years, but no one compares to Paws + Hooves. Beth and John are knowledgeable, organized, and so warm with our pets. The updates and photos were a huge bonus too! ---Marissa, Rocky River, OH
"Even our shy cat warmed up to them!" We usually dread leaving our pets, but not anymore. Our cat usually hides from everyone, but she actually came out for Beth! That says it all.--- Renee, Olmsted Township, OH
"Beth and John are the only people I trust with my two senior dogs." Their knowledge, attention to detail, and true love for animals is unmatched. Coming home to happy pets and a clean home is the best feeling."---Melissa, Westlake, OH
"We have a small hobby farm, and its hard to find someone who can care for goats, chickens, dogs, and cats--but John did it all with care and confidence. Absolutely incredible service."---Katie, North Ridgeville, OH
"We have two dogs and one is very shy, but they got him to warm up to them on the first day! They sent me a picture of him sitting on their laps! The updates and photos made us feel so at ease while we were away. Highly recommend!"---Tom + Rachel Avon, OH
"I needed a last-minute sitter for my two Great Danes and Paws + Hooves saved the day. They were professional, responsive, and treated my dogs like their own."--Brian Sheffield, OH
"We travel often for work, and it's such a relief knowing our pets are in loving, hands. The daily updates and genuine care are so appreciated."---Angela, Fairview Park, OH
"My bearded dragon, cat, and rabbit are all part of the family--and Paws + Hooves treats them that way. I wouldn't trust anyone else."---Joanna, Bay Village, OH
"Not many sitters know what an axolotl is--let alone how to care for one properly-- bit Beth did! Our little guy was well-fed, his tank stayed clean, and we came home to a happy, wiggly axolotl." We're so lucky to have found this service right here in Lorain County."---Sam, Elyria, OH
"I needed someone to administer medication to my horse while we were out of town. They not only followed the routine exactly but also sent daily health updates. They also cared our donkey, which truly requires patience! They nailed it! True professionals."---Eric, Columbia Station, OH
"Leaving our small farm isn't easy, but Paws + Hooves made it feel like we never left. The chickens were safe and fed, the goats got their meds, and the sheep were checked closely for any issues. They are super reliable pet sitters. Will use them again!"---Karen + Jeff, Grafton, OH
Payments & Policies
Clear, Simple, & Fair
We believe in transparency and flexibility. Here you will find everything you need to know about deposits, payments methods, cancellation policies, and service fees---so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.
What is our payment policy? A deposit is collected at the Meet & Greet, and final payment is due at the end of the service.
What forms of payment do we accept? We accept cash, checks, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, and Apple Cash. Credit Cards are not an available option at this time.
Is there a cancellation fee? Yes. Cancellations made 48 or less before service may be subject to a fee.
Do we charge for mileage? A mileage fee applies for locations 20 miles or more from our home base, to cover travel time and expenses. A flat fee may be considered as an alternative to our per-mile charge.
- First 20 miles round-trip: Included in service price.
- Over 20 miles round trip: $0.45 per mile will be charged.
- Over 50 miles round-trip: $0.65 per mile will be charged.
- Over 80 miles round trip: $0.85 per mile will be charged.
What happens if there's a medical emergency while you are away? If a medical emergency arises, we will contact you right away. If we cant reach you, we'll reach out to your preferred veterinarian or seek immediate care to ensure your pet's well-being. We ask that you provide up-to date emergency contacts and veterinary details.
Will visits still happen during bad weather? Yes--we care for your pets in all kinds of weather. However, during sever or dangerous conditions, visit times may be adjusted or services modified for safety. Your pet's comfort and our sitter's safety always comes first.
How far in advance should you book pet sitting services? We recommend booking at least 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during holidays or busy seasons. Lat-minute requests may be accepted depending on availability. You can contact us through our website, text, of email to schedule.
Do you need to schedule a meet and greet before services begin? Yes! We require a complimentary meet and greet for all new clients. It's a chance for us to meet you and your pets, go over their routine, and make sure everyone feels comfortable before care begins.
How do we access your home, and what is our key policy? We accept keys, lockbox codes, or garage codes. Keys are securely labeled and stored. If we are unable to access your home due to client error or a lost key, a lockout fee may apply. We recommend a backup key or lockbox whenever possible.
What if your pet has special behavior needs or is aggressive? We understand that every pet is unique. However. for safety, we may decline service if a pet shows aggression or cannot be handled safely. Please share any behavioral concerns or special handling instructions during your meet and greet.
Do you offer services on holidays or outside normal hours? Yes! We are happy to care for your pets on holidays or during early morning/late-night hours when available. A small holiday or after-hours fee may apply. Major holidays include New Year's Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July 4th, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. A surcharge of $15-25+ will be added to visits scheduled on major holidays or outside normal hours.
How long are our visits, and when we will arrive? Visits typically last 20-45 minutes, or based on your pet's needs. We schedule visits within a 1-2 hour window to allow flexibility for travel, weather, and individual pet routines.
Do your pets need to be vaccinated or meet health requirements? Yes, for the safety of your pets and others, we ask that all pets are current on vaccinations and free of any contagious illnesses or parasites. Be sure to let us know about any health issues or special care needs.
Will we share photos of your pets online? With your permission, yes! We love sharing cute moments on our website and social media. If you would prefer your pet's photos remain private, just let us know--- your wishes will always be respected.
Is your personal and home information kept private? Absolutely. Your privacy and trust are important to us. All client information, keys, alarm codes, and home access details are kept confidential and secure. We never share or discuss your personal info.
Contact Us Today!
For customizable pet sitting solutions that fit your needs, reach out to us. We prioritize your pets' well-being and are ready to assist you!