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.
With 30+ years of combined experience, we provide dependable care for cats, dogs, horses, farm animals, and exotic pets. Our insurance provides added protection for both our clients and our team while services are being provided.
Whether we're caring for your cats, dogs, horses, or exotic pets, you can relax knowing we follow clear safety protocols and emergency procedures to keep your pets secure and healthy.
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.
IRS MILEAGE RATE:
- 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: $0.65 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.
*For farther travel (typically over 45-50+ miles), our Overnight Stay Packages are strongly preferred to ensure consistent and reliable care without multiple long trips per day.
Not sure if you are within range? Contact us and we will be happy to confirm or provide a custom quote.
Payment Policy
Keeping Payments Easy and Worry-Free.
Deposit
A non-refundable deposit of 50% of the total booking is due at the Meet & Greet (new guests) or at booking confirmation (returning guests) to secure your reservation.
If a guest cancels more than 48 hours in advance, the deposit may be applied as a credit toward a future booking within 6 months of the original booking date.
Remaining Balance
The remaining 50% balance is due on the first day of service, for new and returning guests. The due date will also be clearly noted on your invoice at the time of booking.
Late Fees & Returned Checks
If payment is not received by the invoice due date, a late fee of $5 per day will be applied until the balance is paid in full, with a maximum late fee of $50.
Returned checks will incur a $35 fee, plus any bank fees, and future services must be prepaid in advance.
Accepted Payment Methods
We accept cash, check, and electronic payments (such as Zelle, Venmo, Paypal or Apple Cash).
Paws + Hooves - A Pet Sitter Company reserves the right to decline personal checks at our discretion. If a check is returned or declined, future payments must be made via cash, electronic transfer, or cashier's check. Payment is due prior to the visit or at the time the appointment is made.
Respecting time for you, your pets, and our sitters.
Cancellation Policy
We understand that life can be unpredictable, and plans sometimes change. Out of fairness to both our clients and our sitters, we kindly ask for as much notice as possible if you need to cancel a scheduled service.
- 48 hours or less notice: will be charged 50% of the total service fee
- 24 hours or less notice: will be charged 100% of the total service fee
Policy Terms & Conditions:
- Deposits: are non-refundable.
- If a guest cancels more than 48 hours in advance: the deposit may be applied as a credit toward a a future a booking within 6 months of original booking date.
- After services have begun: If services are canceled or ended early once care has started, the full balance for the original booking remains due.
- Holiday & Peak Periods: Deposits and payments for holidays or high-demand periods are always non-refundable, regardless of notice.
- Early Returns: If a guest returns early, unused days or visits are not eligible for refunds or credits.
- Reschedules: With more than 48 hours' notice, deposits may be moved to new dates one time as a courtesy.
This policy allows us to fairly value our sitters' time, ensures fairness for all of our guests, and still provide flexibility when possible.
Thank you for your understanding and support---it allows us to continue providing dependable, loving care for your pets!
Home Access & Key Handling
Secure Handling That You Can Trust.
At Paws + Hooves - A Pet Sitter Company, 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. For the safety of your pets and to ensure uninterrupted care, we require at least one working physical key at the Meet & Greet, even if your home uses a keypad, garage code, or alarm system. This protects against lockouts in the event of power outages, dead batteries, or system malfunctions.
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.
Smart Entry Systems & Smart Doors:
We also accommodate smart entry devices and smart doors, including app-based keypads, smart locks, and automated door systems (such as Ring, Wyze, or Nest). Please ensure your system has a reliable backup access method -- such as a physical key or alternate code -- in case of power, battery, or connectivity issues. All smart access details are kept strictly confidential and used only for scheduled visits.
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.
Key Copying & Backup Access:
For client convenience and to ensure uninterrupted service, Paws + Hooves may request a duplicate key be made or retained for future visits. Keys are secured, labeled only by pet name or general identifier, and stored in a locked, restricted-access location.
If you prefer we do not retain a copy, please note that additional fees may apply if a lockout, lost key, or emergency entry occurs.
Lockouts & Emergency Access:
If our sitter is unable to access your home due to an incorrect code, faulty lock, or missing/changed key, a $25 lockout fee will be applied per incident. Additional fees may apply if a locksmith or emergency service is required.
If you use a lockbox, keypad, or smart entry system, please ensure access methods are current and reliable prior to each scheduled visit. We're always happy to confirm entry details in advance to avoid interruptions in care.
Your trust is never taken for granted-- and we are committed to respecting and protecting your home just as we do your pets.
Cameras in the Home
We understand and respect that many clients have security cameras in and around their homes.
We simply ask that all cameras be disclosed prior to the start of services so we are fully aware of their presence and placement during pet care visits and overnight stays.
Cameras should not be placed in private areas such as bathrooms or sleeping areas used during overnight care. Cameras with audio recording should also be disclosed in advance.
Open communication helps insure comfort, trust, and professionalism for everyone.
Home Safety & Arrival Condition
How we document and secure your home the moment we arrive
At Paws + Hooves, your pet's safety begins the moment we walk through your door.
Our responsibility officially starts at the documented time of our arrival.
If we arrive and find that:
- a door or window is open
- a gate, crate, or enclosure is unsecured
- a barrier or latch was not fastened
- a pet is already missing
We immediately:
- Document the condition of the home with timestamped photos or video
- Notify you right away
- Search for your pet based on your instructions
- Confirm the safety of all remaining pets
Because these situations occur before care begins, Paws + Hooves cannot be held liable for escapes, injuries, or incidents that happen prior to our arrival. Our priority is to secure the home, follow your instructions, and maintain consistent, trustworthy care for every pet in the home.
This policy protects your home, your pets, and your peace of mind.
Pet Escape, Missing Pets, or Not Located During Care
The steps we take and how we respond if a pet gets out or cannot be found during a visit.
At Paws + Hooves, we prioritize your pets' safety at every visit. In the rare event that a pet slips out, escapes, or cannot be located during our scheduled care, we follow a structured emergency protocol to respond immediately and appropriately.
If a pet gets out or cannot be found, we will:
- Search the home and property thoroughly
- Secure all other pets for safety
- Notify you immediately by call and text
- Continue searching based on your instructions
- Remain on-site until you advise otherwise, when possible
- Contact local animal control or emergency contacts if needed and approved by you
While we do everything reasonably possible to prevent escapes, Paws + Hooves cannot be held liable for unpredictable behaviors or situations outside of our control, including but not limited to:
- sudden dashes through open doors
- pets hiding in inaccessible areas
- faulty fences, latches, or unexpected gaps
- pets slipping harnesses, collars, or barriers provided by the owner
We will always act quickly, responsibly, and transparently to assist in locating your pet and ensuring the safety of all animals in the home.
Your pet's safety is our priority, and this protocol ensures immediate action and clear communication in every situation.
Veterinary Care & Emergency Protocol
In the event of illness or injury.
At Paws + Hooves -- A Pet Sitter Company, the health and safety of your pets is our top priority.
During your Meet & Greet and Intake Process, we collect the contact information for your pet's primary veterinarian as well as a preferred emergency veterinary clinic or emergency contact. This ensures that we have the necessary information readily available should a medical concern arise while you are away.
Clients must provide at least one local emergency contact who can assist if the owner cannot be reached.
If a pet appears ill, injured, or in distress during a visit, we will:
- Attempt to contact the pet owner immediately
- Contact the designated emergency contact if the owner cannot be reached
- Seek veterinary care if we believe the situation requires prompt medical attention
If immediate veterinary care is necessary and the owner cannot be reached, Paws + Hooves will transport the pet to the provided veterinary clinic or the nearst available emergency veterinary facility.
All veterinary expenses are the responsibility of the pet owner.
Paws + Hooves is authorized to seek veterinary care on the owner's behalf if immediate medical attention is required and the owner cannot be reached.
We will always make decisions with the pet's safety, comfort, and well-being as the top priority.
High Frequency Day Visits
(3+ Visits Per Day)
Supportive daytime presence for pets needing extra check-ins
There may be times when your pet requires three or more daytime visits within the same day. Even though some of our Standard Care Packages include up to three visits, certain situations may still call for additional check-ins or closer daytime presence.
In these situations -- especially when a client lives outside our immediate service radius or when back-and-forth travel becomes excessive--we may recommend temporarily remaining in your home for short periods between scheduled visits. This helps us maintain your pet's routine, provide timely care, and ensure their safety and comfort throughout the day.
When We May Recommend This Option:
We may suggest remaining in the home for part of the day when:
- Your pet requires three or more daytime visits
- Frequent back-and-forth travel results in short/long gaps between visit times, making consistency difficult
- You live outside our main service radius
- Your pet needs timed medications, close monitoring, or anxiety support
- Your pet is a senior, recovering, or has special needs
This is strictly a daytime support option and is not considered overnight care.
What We Are We Allowed to Do (With Permission):
While remaining in your home between visits, we may:
- Use the living room or kitchen for brief periods
- Watch TV or streaming quietly
- Use WI-FI for communication and pet updates
- Bring a laptop, book, or quiet activity
- Use basic kitchen appliances (fridge, microwave, coffee maker)
- Adjust lighting or thermostat within your guidelines
- Access only the room required for your pet's care
What We Do Not Do:
To protect your privacy and maintain comfort, we do not:
- Invite visitors or allow anyone else inside your home
- Enter off-limits rooms or personal areas
- Use personal belongings not designated for our use
- Do laundry (unless related to pet care and pre-approved)
- Use heavy appliances without permission
- Rearrange furniture or move personal items
- Consume alcohol or substances
- Leave the home unsecured in any way
Client Preferences:
To ensure we follow your expectations, please let us know:
- Areas of the home we may or may not use
- Kitchen and appliance permissions
- TV/streaming guidelines
- Thermostat preferences
- Alarm/door lock instructions
- Location of pet supplies
- Any "do not enter" areas
When accidents become routine, an extra cleanup fee helps keep your home clean and pets safe.
Excessive Cleaning & House Soiling Policy
While we understand that occasional accidents can happen, ongoing indoor urination or defecation requires extra time, sanitation, and odor control.
To ensure a clean and safe environment, an Excessive Cleaning Fee may apply if a pet repeatedly soils inside during the service period.
Cleanup Levels:
- Minor cleanup: Small spot cleanup (light surface wipe or single pee accident on hard flooring).
- Moderate cleanup: Requires additional disinfecting or odor control (multiple accidents, soiled bedding, or mild odor treatment).
- Extensive cleanup/odor control: Heavy or repeated accidents requiring significant cleaning time, sanitization, or odor neutralizing treatment (mopping entire floor areas, multiple rooms. or deep odor control).
Fee Structure Breakdown:
Per Incident (occasional accidents):
- Minor cleanup: ....................... $5+ per incident
- Moderate cleanup: .................. $10+ per incident
- Extensive cleanup/odor control: $15+ per incident
Per Day (repeated / ongoing cleanup):
- Light daily cleanup: ................. $15+ per day
- Moderate cleanup: ................... $20+ per day
- Heavy/continuous cleanup: ....... $25+ per day
Paws + Hooves - A Pet Sitter Company reserves the right to adjust the fee based on frequency and severity, and number of pets involved.
If the issue continues, clients may be asked to provide pee pads, enzymatic cleaner, and disinfectant, or future bookings may be limited until house training improves.
Creating a safe, stress-free experience for pets--- and the people who care for them.
Aggressive or Reactive Pets Policy
At Paws + Hooves -A Pet Sitter Company, your pets' comfort-- and our safety-- are always top priorities. We understand that some pets may be nervous, territorial, or reactive when new people enter their space.
To ensure everyone's safety, we require that all pets under our care are safe to handle and do not pose a risk of biting, scratching, or attacking.
If a pet shows aggressive or unpredictable behavior during visits -- including growling, snapping, lunging, or biting -- services may be paused or discontinued immediately for the safety of both pet and our sitters.
If a Paws + Hooves sitter is bitten or injured and requires medical attention, the pet owner will be held responsible for all related medical expenses.
In such cases:
- The client will be notified right away.
- A friend, family member, or emergency contact may be asked to assume care.
- Full or partial service charges may still apply for time already spent.
Please share any behavioral concerns or handling instructions during your Meet & Greet--your honesty helps us provide safe, compassionate care for all pets.
Paws + Hooves - A Pet Sitter Company reserves the right to refuse or discontinue service for any pet that displays dangerous or aggressive behavior.
Our goal is always to work with you to create a positive, stress-free experience -- but safety will always come first.
Photos & Videos Policy
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!
Follow along with our adventures!
- Facebook: Paws and Hooves -A Pet Sitter Company
- Instagram: @paws_hooves_petsitter
You're always in control--you can opt out anytime, no questions asked.
Holidays & After Hours
Because Pets Deserve Love And Attention Every Day Of The Year!
At Paws + Hooves - A Pet Sitter Company, 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 will be applied for visits scheduled on major holidays or outside of normal hours. Holiday surcharges are typically starting at $15,$20, $25 depending on the holiday and will be 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.
Standard Holidays -- +$15 per visit
- Easter
- Memorial Day
- Labor Day
Major Holidays -- +$20 per visit
- New Year's Day
- Independence day
Premium Holidays -- + $25 per visit
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas Eve
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Eve
After-Hour Visits
- Early Morning (before 7am): +$15
- Late Night (after 9am): +$15
Holiday periods include the holiday itself and surrounding peak travel days when applicable.
Mileage fees may be applicable for outside of the radius of our home base.
Paw Points Loyalty Program
Because we love our clients (and their pets)!
The more services you book with us, the more Paw Points you earn.
Frequent bookings, longer trips, and recurring visits help you earn Paw Points even faster.
Welcome Bonus:
All new clients receive 2 Paw Points after their first completed multi-day booking.
Our Paw Points Loyalty Program rewards our loyal clients with discounts, perks, and even free visits.
How Paw Points Work:
- Earn 1 Paw Point for every completed multi-day service booking(2+ consecutive days).
- Multiple visits within the same day (2 or more visits) count as one service day toward Paw Points.
- Paw Points are awarded once per completed service booking, not per individual day or visit.
- Overnight Stays earn 2 Paw Points per completed stay.
- Referrals that book services earn 3 Paw Points.
- Bookings of 3 or more services scheduled at once earn +1 Bonus Paw Point per service booked (in addition to regular Paw Points)
- Extended Stay Bonus: Trips of 7 or more consecutive days earn +1 Bonus Paw Point.
Rewards:
*Ultimate Reward*
45 Paw Points = One FREE Standard Care Visit (1 day - up to $50 value)
Paw Points:
- 25 Paw Points = $30 off your next booking.
- 20 Paw Points = $25 off your next booking.
- 15 Paw Points = $15 off your next booking.
- 10 Paw Points = $10 off your next booking.
- 5 Paw Points = $5 off your next booking.
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 Paw Points offered a few times each year.
VIP Paw Preferred Program
Ask us how to qualify.
For our most frequent clients, we also offer a VIP Paw Preferred Program, which includes priority scheduling, exclusive perks and additional loyalty benefits. (see details below)
The Fine Print:
- Paw Points are earned per completed service booking, not per individual day or visit.
- Paw Points apply to completed services only.
- Paw Points are earned on bookings of 2 or more consecutive days.
- Bookings that are shortened or canceled after scheduling will not qualify for Paw Points.
- Points never expire as long as you have at least 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.
Preferred Paw--
VIP Loyalty Member
Premium Loyalty Tier
Preferred Paw--VIP Loyalty Tier:
Our Preferred Paw VIP Tier is reserved for our most dedicated and trusted clients. Members receive exclusive perks, occasional member-only service rewards, and enhanced booking flexibility on our most-booked services -- including all of our overnight stays and regular pet care packages.
This tier is our way of saying thank-you for your continued loyalty and for trusting us to care for your pets like family.
VIP PERKS:
- VIP Priority Booking During Peak Seasons
- Occasional Members-Only Service Offers
- Bonus Loyalty Perks Throughout the Year
- Consideration for Schedule Flexibility When Possible
About the Preferred Paw VIP Program:
Our Preferred Paw VIP Tier is designed to provide premium value and appreciation for our most loyal clients -- without relying on permanent discounts or coupon- based pricing. Instead our program focuses on meaningful perks, priority benefits, and elevated service experiences.
How Our VIP Program Works:
- Core VIP Benefits: Bonus perks, experience upgrades, and enhanced booking flexibility on our most-booked services. Example- priority booking, occasional enrichment upgrades, and bonus loyalty points.
- Occasional VIP Appreciation Rewards: Seasonal or members-only bonuses offered at select times throughout the year. Example- seasonal double-point opportunities, surprise rewards.
- Optional Bundle Rewards: Special booking incentives may be offered during travel-heavy periods or select promotional windows. Example- appreciation perks that may be offered during travel-heavy seasons, such as bonus loyalty rewards or complimentary add-ons when multiple services are booked within same period.
In addition to earning discounts and rewards through our standard Loyalty Program, our Preferred Paw VIP Tier provides added premium value through meaningful perks, priority benefits, and elevated service experiences -- rather than relying only on traditional discount-based incentives.
Our goal is to keep Preferred Paw feeling:
- exclusive
- relationship-based
- high-value
- premium brand aligned
--- while rewarding the clients who continue to trust us to care for their beloved pets.
Testimonials
What Some of 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
"I couldn't be happier with the way John and Beth cared for my senior cat Kasey." From the start, they were attentive, reliable, and genuinely caring. They kept me updated with pictures and messages, so I always knew Kasey was happy and safe. It's clear they took the time to understand her personality and needs, and treated her like their own. I came home to a relaxed, well-cared for kitty and a tidy home. I highly recommend John and Beth to anyone looking for someone trustworthy and loving to watch their pets. --- Ali, Westlake, OH
"We have hired Paws + Hooves for our mini goldendoodle dog." My dog was so happy the entire time that we were gone. They do take care of him just like their own pet. They did not just come and fee him and leave, they actually spend their time with him and played with him. They were keeping us updated on his schedule. They're the best in Cleveland. Very reasonably priced. We will use their service in the future. --- Mili, Avon, 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
"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 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
FAQ: 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 non-refundable deposit is collected at the Meet & Greet, and final payment is due on the first day of service, shown on the invoice. Returning Guests, your deposit is due when your service is confirmed. If payment is not received by the invoice due date, a late fee of $5 per day, will be applied until the balance is paid in full, with a maximum late fee of $50.
*What forms of payment do we accept?..... We accept cash, checks(we have the right to refuse), Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, and Apple Cash. Credit Cards are not an available option at this time. Paws + Hooves reserves the right to decline personal checks at our discretion. If a check is refused, payment must be made via cash, electronic transfer, or cashier's check. If a check is returned, you will incur a $35 fee, plus any bank fees, and future services must be prepaid in advance.
*Is there a cancellation fee?..... Yes. Cancellations made 48 or less before service may be subject to a fee.
- 48 hours or less: 50% of the booked service
- 24 hours or less: 100% of the booked service
- Deposit is non-refundable
- If a guest cancels more than 48 hours in advance, the deposit may be applied as a credit toward a a future a booking within 6 months of the original booking date.
- After services have begun: If services are canceled or ended early once care has started, the full balance for the original booking remains due.
- Holiday & Peak Periods: Deposits and payments for holidays or high-demand periods are always non-refundable, regardless of notice.
- Early Returns: If a guest returns early, unused days or visits are not eligible for refunds or credits.
- Reschedules: With more than 48 hours' notice, deposits may be moved to new dates one time as a courtesy.
*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 severe 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. Last-minute requests may be accepted depending on availability. You can contact us through our website, text, or 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 physical keys, lockbox codes, garage/keypad codes, smart entry systems, and smart door access. Keys are securely labeled and stored using a non-identifying system. If we are unable to access your home due to client error, incorrect codes, or a lost key, a lockout fee may apply. We recommend a backup key or lockbox whenever possible to ensure smooth and reliable entry during your scheduled visits.
*What happens if my sitter arrives and a door is open or a pet is already missing?.....We immediately document the condition of your home with timestamped photos or video, notify you right away, and follow your instructions. Because this occurs before care begins, Paws + Hooves cannot be held liable for escapes, injuries, or incidents that happen prior to our arrival.
*What if my pet gets out or cannot be found during a visit?..... We follow our emergency protocol: secure all other pets, search the home and property, notify you immediately, and continue searching based on your instructions. While rare, unexpected escapes can occur, and Paws + Hooves cannot be held liable for unpredictable behaviors or situations outside our control, but we will act quickly and responsibly to help locate your pet.
*Why do you sometimes stay in my home during the day instead of leaving between visits?..... When a pet requires three or more visits within the same day, frequent back-and-forth travel can create short/long gaps in care or make it difficult to maintain your pet's routine--- especially if you live outside our main service area. In these cases, we may recommend staying in your home for short periods between visits to ensure timely feedings, potty breaks, medication schedules, and overall comfort.
*Is this considered an Overnight Stay?..... No. This option is strictly for daytime support only and does not include staying past evening hours or sleeping overnight in your home.
*What are you allowed to do while staying in my home during the day?.....With your permission, we may use common areas like the living room or kitchen, watch TV quietly, use WI-FI, bring a laptop or book, and use basic kitchen appliances. We only use spaces necessary for pet care and always follow your guidelines.
*What are you not allowed to do?.....We never invite visitors, enter off-limit rooms, use personal belongings, rearrange your home, consume alcohol or substances, or use heavy appliances without permissions. Your privacy, comfort, and home security remain our top priorities.
*Do I need to prepare anything if my pet requires this option?..... We may ask for clarification on:
- Which rooms we may use
- Kitchen and appliance permissions
- TV/WI-FI access
- Thermostat settings
- Alarm/lock instructions
- Pet supply locations
- Any "do not enter" areas
This helps us follow your preferences exactly as you intend.
*What is considered "excessive soiling," and is there an additional fee?.....Yes. Excessive soiling refers to messes that go beyond normal accidents or routine litter cleaning. This can include large or repeated urine/feces accidents, smeared waste, vomit in multiple areas, or situations requiring disinfecting, mopping, or deep cleaning of floors or multiple rooms. We understand that accidents happen, and we always care for pets with compassion -- but additional cleanup time may require an extra fee to ensure your home is left clean, safe, and comfortable.
*What if your pet has special behavior needs or is reactive or aggressive?..... We understand that every pet is unique. However, for everyone's safety, we may decline or stop service if a pet shows aggression, bites, or cannot be handled safely. If a sitter is bitten or injured and medical care is required, the pet owner will be responsible for related medical expenses. You will be notified immediately, and a backup contact may be asked to assume care. Please share any behavioral concerns or handling instructions during your Meet & Greet --your honesty helps us provide safe, compassionate care for all pets.
*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!