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At Pet and Home Care, we understand that your pet’s well-being is a top priority. That’s why we’ve made it easier than ever to manage your pet care services with our app. From booking care to tipping your sitter, and even updating important information and instructions, our app streamlines the pet care process for your convenience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to make the most of our app. Get it here: Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Creating an Account

Create your account or log into an existing account here. Follow the simple steps to move forward with the creation process.

Booking Care with Ease

Booking pet care services with our app is a breeze. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Log In

Open the Time to Pet app and log in using your credentials. If you’re new to our services, you can create an account quickly by clicking activate account.

Step 2: Request Services

Once logged in, you’ll see a menu that includes the button “scheduling” under our announcement bar. Click scheduling, then click request service.

Step 3: Schedule

Choose the dates and times you require pet care.

Step 4: Choose Your Service

Select the pets requiring service, the type of pet care service you need, and the time you would like your service to take place. You can also add details at the bottom section.

Step 5: Confirm and Book

Review the information you’ve entered, make any necessary adjustments, and request your pet care service. Please await confirmation as we will need to approve your service request. Once it is approved, you will receive confirmation email and an invoice the day before your service is scheduled. Please be sure to add your payment method to ensure your invoice is paid on time.

Step 6: Sit Back and Relax!

After you recieve your confirmation, you can relax knowing your service is guaranteed. Enjoy peace of mind with our digital Pawgress reports. Photos, videos, and updates will be sent with every service.

Updating Information and Instructions

Keeping your pet’s information and care instructions up-to-date is crucial for their well-being. Make sure to regularly review the instructions to ensure they are accurate, concise, and clear. Additionally, please include current photos of your pets. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Log In

Access the Time to Pet app and log in using your credentials.

Step 2: Access Your Profile

Navigate to your profile section within the app with the “my info” button. This is where you can manage your personal and pet-related information. You can edit and update your contact details, manage home entry methods, etc.

Step 3: Access Your Pet Profile

By clicking the “pets” button, you can access and edit your pet’s medical history, feeding schedules, and any special care instructions.

Step 4: Save Changes

Once you’ve made the necessary updates, make sure to save your changes. This ensures that your pet’s caregiver has the most current and accurate information.

Experience Stress-Free Pet Care with Pet and Home CAre

Our app is designed to make pet care as convenient as possible. Whether you’re booking a service, tipping your sitter, or updating vital information and instructions, our tech puts you in control of your pet’s care.

At Pet and Home Care, we are committed to providing the best possible pet care experience. The Time to Pet app is just one way we make this happen. Download the app today, and simplify your pet care management. Your furry family members will thank you, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’re in capable hands.

As the back-to-school season approaches, families everywhere are bustling to get their kids ready for the classroom. While parents are busy preparing school supplies and schedules, there’s one important member of the family that should not be forgotten: your beloved pet. At Pet and Home Care, we understand that your pet is not just a part of your family but also your most loyal companion. That’s why we want to remind you that, as you plan for the school year ahead, it’s equally important to plan for those upcoming school breaks this fall and winter.

The Importance of Planning Ahead

The fall and winter breaks are prime times for family getaways and visits to relatives. However, these breaks can also be a stressful time for your pets if their routines are disrupted. Planning for pet care during these breaks is crucial for several reasons:

1. Availability

Quality pet care services can become booked up quickly for mid day weekly walks and popular vacation periods. Waiting until the last minute to secure a pet sitter can leave you scrambling for options, potentially compromising your pet’s comfort and safety. You can access your scheduling needs on your online profile.

2. Peace of Mind

Knowing that your pet is in the hands of a trusted and reliable pet care provider can significantly reduce the stress associated with leaving your furry friend behind. Planning ahead allows you to find the perfect pet sitter who can cater to your pet’s specific needs. Download our app to get the fastest communication for updates on your furry companion. Get it here: Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

3. Maintaining Routine

Pets thrive on routine. Frequent changes in their environment can lead to anxiety and behavioral issues. By planning ahead, you can ensure that your pet continues to receive consistent care, maintaining their health and happiness.

4. Personalized Care

Every pet is unique, with individual needs and preferences. Planning ahead enables you to find a pet sitter who understands your pet’s quirks and can provide personalized care, from feeding schedules to playtime activities.

The Power of “Set It and Forget It” Care

At Pet and Home Care, we take the stress out of planning for pet care while you are at work or the kids are at school. Our recurring walks option is the epitome of “set it and forget it” care for pet owners who have a consistent schedule and need pet care on the same days each week.

Here’s why our service is the ideal choice:

• Convenience: With recurring walks, you can book your pet’s care well in advance, ensuring that your pet’s needs are met without the hassle of scheduling each time.
• Flexibility: While you set up a consistent schedule, you’re not locked in. You can always cancel or add more visits as needed. Just contact our office, and we’ll take care of it.
• Priority Service: Enjoy priority service for add-on care. If your pet needs extra attention or care during a school break, you’ll have peace of mind knowing we’re here to accommodate their needs.
• Simplified Billing: Our recurring walks option is conveniently invoiced at the end of every two weeks. This helps catch any last-minute schedule changes or adjustments, making the billing process stress-free.

Why Choose Pet and Home Care?

At Pet and Home Care, we’ve been recognized as the Angie’s List Super Service Award winner for more than 10 years running. We maintain high ratings on Google and Yelp, thanks to our dedicated team of certified, trained, experienced, and professional pet care providers. We strive to make your experience as seamless as possible with easy online booking, digital “pawgress reports” with updates, photos, and videos of your pets each visit. We evenn have dedicated management team with office hours from 7am-9pm daily!

Planning ahead for your pet’s care has never been this simple and convenient. With Pet and Home Care, you’re not just choosing a pet care provider; you’re selecting a partner to ensure your pet’s happiness and well-being, even when you’re away.

Remember, a well-prepared pet is a happy pet, and a happy pet makes for a happy family. Contact us today and let us be your partner in ensuring your pet’s happiness and well-being during the school year and beyond. With Pet and Home Care, you can set it, forget it, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your pet is in excellent hands.

Start Planning Today!

Don’t wait until the last minute to think about your pet’s well-being during the upcoming school breaks. Start planning today by contacting Pet and Home Care to discuss your pet’s needs and secure the services of a trusted pet sitter. With our help, you can enjoy your vacations and family visits without worrying about your furry family members.

September is a month that carries the promise of changing seasons and new beginnings. It’s also a time when we are reminded of the importance of being prepared for unexpected challenges that life may throw our way. National Preparedness Month encourages us to take small steps each day to ensure our safety and well-being during emergencies and disasters. As we embark on this journey of preparedness, it’s crucial not to forget about our beloved pets, who rely on us for their safety and care.

Why Should Pets Be Part of Your Preparedness Plans?

Our furry companions are an integral part of our families, and their safety matters just as much as our own. Imagine facing a disaster without a plan in place for your pets. In times of chaos, having a well-thought-out strategy can make all the difference. The American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of including pets in your preparedness plans, and throughout this National Preparedness Month, we’re going to help you ensure the safety and well-being of your four-legged friends.

This September, join us in taking small steps each day for a prepared and pet-friendly home. Print out these tips or add them to your calendar.

September 1: Start by assembling an emergency kit for your family, including your pets. Collect essential items such as food, water, medications, and comfort items for your furry friends. Having these items in a dedicated backpack or bag can make it easier to access them quickly. Be sure to notify your pet sitter or update your online profile so your pet’s bag can be found if a disaster occurs while you are away.

September 2: Create a communication plan that includes your pets. Identify a friend or family member outside your area who can help coordinate in case of separation during a disaster. Be sure to include the contact info on your online profile info page.

September 3: Know your area’s risks and prepare accordingly. Familiarize yourself with the types of disasters that are most likely to occur in your region, and educate your family about how to respond.

September 4: Sign up for emergency notifications on your cell phone. Ensure you receive alerts about potential disasters in your area that could impact you and your pets. Be sure to download our pet care app to ensure you have the fastest communication method with your pet care provider. Get it here: Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

September 5: Create a defensible space around your home to reduce wildfire risks for both you and your pets.

September 13: Prepare your pets by having essential supplies ready, including food, water, medications, and comfort items. Check out resources at redcross.org/pets for more information.

September 18: Talk to your children about disasters and involve them in your preparedness plans, including plans for your pets.

September 23: While earthquakes and tornados in Maryland are rare, they can occur. Practice earthquake and tornado safety with your pets and kids. Learn the DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON technique, and identify safe spots for you and your pets during an emergency.

September 25: Make an evacuation plan that includes your pets. Know where you will go, how you will get there, and what supplies you’ll need. Have two options in case roads are inaccessible.

September 28: Give back to your community by donating blood. In times of disaster, blood donations save lives – both human and animal.

September 29: Leverage social media for information during emergencies. Follow reputable accounts and keep up to date with local news and resources for both you and your pets.

September 30: Test your knowledge and inventory of what you’ve learned throughout the month. Ensure that you can answer affirmatively to statements related to preparedness and pet safety.

In conclusion, National Preparedness Month is a reminder that taking small steps each day can lead to significant improvements in our ability to handle emergencies and disasters. As you work on your preparedness plans this month, remember to include your pets in every step. By considering their needs and safety, you’ll be better equipped to face challenges and protect all members of your family, furry or not. So, let’s embark on this journey of preparedness together, ensuring that our homes are ready for whatever comes our way – and that includes our cherished pets. At Pet and Home Care, we have your tail covered!

As we gear up for the summer season at Pet and Home Care, we wanted to share some important steps that will ensure your furry friends receive the best possible care throughout the upcoming months. With these simple actions, you can make the most of our services and have peace of mind while you’re away:

1. Download Our App: It’s the easiest way to book new services, view and manage existing appointments, and communicate with our dedicated team. You can find the app on both Apple and Android devices.

Time To Pet App for ANDROID Devices

Time To Pet App for APPLE Devices

2. Update Your Care Instructions: Pet routines can change frequently, and we want to stay up to date to provide personalized care. Please take a few minutes to review and update the care instructions for each of your pets in our system. This will ensure that our team members have all the necessary information to give your pets the attention they deserve.

3. Add and Update Your Pet Photos: We want to get to know your pets better, and having updated photos will help us recognize them faster and provide accurate care. Please take a moment to add or update photos of your pets. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in tailoring our services to their specific needs.

4. Provide Secure On-Site Access to Your Home: To ensure a seamless experience, especially when there are last-minute bookings or schedule changes, multiple Pet and Home Care sitters may visit your home while you’re away. By providing secure on-site access, such as key lockboxes, door codes, or garage codes, you can eliminate any potential delays in service that may occur when arranging key handoffs between sitters. On-site access can also be beneficial to other service providers, or family members that do not have their own key. Your key will remain in your possession for the entirety of the service. This system eliminates the need for key pick up and drop off, saving you the $15 fee.

5. Book Early! Our availability fills up quickly, and we operate on a first-come, first-serve basis for service requests unless you’re on a recurring visit schedule. Don’t wait until the last minute and risk disappointment. Reserve your pet care services as soon as you know your schedule to ensure we can accommodate your needs. Even with our expanded staff, we anticipate a few upcoming weekends to reach full capacity soon.

If you have any questions or need assistance with any of the above steps, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at 301-PET-CARE. We are always here to help and provide you with the best possible care for your beloved pets.

Thank you once again for your continued support of Pet and Home Care. We are genuinely excited to spend more time with your adorable pets over the next few months and beyond! Your trust in us means the world.

Book online now or reach out to us at care@petandhomecare.com ASAP to reserve your care for any days you need help this summer!

This past year proved to be monumental for Pet and Home Care. We expanded our pet care team and office staff, made new investments in our facilities, and improved our technology to deliver an even better customer experience for both pets and their parents alike.

The biggest change came when we launched a new app and online customer center back in March. Both our clients and team members seamlessly adapted to the new tech, and it has made a better all-around user experience for booking, scheduling, communications, and payments. If you haven’t done it yet, we strongly encourage you to download the Apple or Android app today!

As much as things evolved this year, we’re constantly updating our business to adapt to a shifting pet care industry. By keeping up with new trends and practices, we’re better positioned to accommodate both our clients and our team members alike.

In this spirit, here are a few more changes and updates that are coming for Pet and Home Care in 2023.

 

RATE INCREASES ON JANUARY 3

OK, we get it: we can hear you screaming “NOOOOOO!” through your screen. No one likes paying more, but we had to make this difficult decision for two major reasons:

1. Our team is bigger than ever.
2. They’re staying with the company longer.

Both of these trends are welcome developments for our clients who rely on our staff’s invaluable experience and their familiarity with your pets. They also mean well-deserved raises and promotions and more benefits to administer. In the end, both our clients and our company are better served by long-tenured, well-compensated, and happy team members!

We did everything we could to minimize rate increases for 2023 — which will officially go into effect on January 3 after the New Year’s holiday — and we took lengths to make sure we’re still competitive with other local pet care companies, without having to implement additional increases anytime soon.

Check out the menu laying out the new prices for our most popular services:

We recognize that many of our clients have already booked services in 2023. If an invoice has already been generated for these services, we will honor those existing rates. We will also honor existing rates for any 2023 bookings made before the end of this year. So if you know you need care in January and beyond, we encourage you to book your services before the New Year and save!

If you are a client with daily or weekly recurring visits we will honor our existing rates through the middle of February 2023. The exact date will vary by each recurring client’s invoicing schedule.

 

PET AND HOME CARE POLICY CHANGES

As Pet and Home Care continues to grow, we’re constantly evaluating our existing policies. Some policies that once made sense a few years ago — or even this time last year – don’t make sense now. After our most recent review, here our some new policies that Pet and Home Care is implementing for 2023:

Free Meet-and-Greets

We know how important it is for our clients to feel good about the people they allow into their homes to provide care for their pets. Pet and Home Care is finally in a place where we no longer need to charge for meet-and-greets, so all new clients will be able to meet with their primary sitters at no additional cost before their services start!

Simplifying and Reducing ‘Extra Pet’ Fees for In-Home Visits

A lot of clients have given us feedback that our pricing structure for extra pets was too confusing, so we made changes and updated the policy to clear things up:

• All our base prices will now reflect service for the FIRST PET ONLY, no matter what type of pet it is.
• If additional dogs or cats require servicing in the same visit we will charge an extra $4 per pet, starting on January 3. This will be a decrease from our existing extra pet fee of $5 (YAY!).
• Care for additional exotic pets (including but not limited to small caged mammals, birds, fish, lizards, snakes, farm animals, etc.) will be charged at custom rates established with our office managers. Please contact us at care@petandhomecare.com to discuss these custom rates.

Updated Late-Booking Policy

We’re always happy to accommodate last-minute bookings made within 24 hours of needed service, but we are increasing our late-booking fee to $15 for standard in-home visits and daycare, and $25 for last-minute overnights and boarding requests. Of course, the best way to avoid these fees is to book your care well in advance (or at least more than 24 hours before your requested service).

New Cancellation Policy

Up until now, we’ve maintained a lenient cancellation policy where clients could cancel services up to 12 hours ahead of time with no penalty. But in the last year we found that the existing policy would regularly throw our schedule into turmoil, affecting services for other clients. So starting in 2023, we are extending our cancellation policy to a minimum of 24 hours before the start of any scheduled services to avoid any penalties.

Of course, we know that some last-minute cancellations are the result of forces out of a client’s control and we will consider account credits in lieu of penalties on a case-by-case basis.

One More Holiday on Black Friday

We updated our holiday calendar earlier this year to include all major holidays and their federally observed dates. In 2023, we’re adding the day after Thanksgiving (Black Friday) to the mix. There are no changes to the additional 30% fee on all designated holidays.

 

OTHER CHANGES

Here’s a sneak peak at all the other fun stuff we have up our sleeve for the coming year…

Yummy Treats at the Resort!

Don’t have time to pack a doggie snack pack? Or maybe you think your daycare or boarding pup deserves an extra treat for being a good boy or girl? Well, we have your tail covered!

The Pet and Home Care Dog Resort is thrilled to introduce a new menu of healthy treats available as delicious add-ons to your pup’s daycare or boarding stay! We call it our Doggone Good Barkery Treats & Eats!

Starting in January 2023, we’re rolling out our menu of delicious treats from puppy ice cream, to veggie bowls and meal toppings, to other seasonal offerings and calming CBD add-ons. We’re really excited about this delicious new addition to the resort, so be on the lookout for more information coming soon!

Brand New Website!

We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to roll out a new PetAndHomeCare.com that’s cleaner and easier to navigate. Our goal is to make it simpler to learn about our services, rates, and the team members that care for your pets. Target date to launch the new site is mid-January 2023.

 

If you’d like to learn more about the most updated pricing and policies at Pet and Home Care, please reach out to us through our app or at care@petandhomecare.com.

Starting a business is hard. Keeping that business strong and successful for more than two decades is even harder. The kind folks at Subkit interviewed Pet and Home Care Founder and CEO Tiffany Lewis to learn how Pet and Home Care began and how she stays motivated after all these years. Here’s a sneak peek:

What’s your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment thus far would have to be keeping this business alive and growing for almost 25 years. That’s no small feat, especially with how difficult it was for small businesses (including ours) to navigate the pandemic over the last couple of years. I’m still in shock that my little side hustle in high school has led me down a path to work for myself and live a nice life.

Read the full interview on Subkit’s Go Solo blog

It’s not uncommon for our cat clients to request care every other day or even every third day when they’re traveling on long vacations. After all, cats are more self-sufficient than other pets and you don’t need someone to check on them every day, right?

Continue reading

Pet and Home Care, Maryland’s biggest and longest running pet care provider, has officially rolled out a new client software platform that promises to simplify and expand on its award-winning customer service.

The platform, developed by PHC’s partners at Time To Pet, is recognized as the leading customer service technology in the pet care industry. It streamlines the booking, servicing, and account management process so both customers and PHC team members can spend more time caring for the pets they love!

Here are just a few of the software’s helpful features:

• A dedicated app for both Apple and Android devices
• Simplified process to book new services
• Intuitive interface to manage accounts
• Mobile push notifications so you never miss an update on your services
• New communication options, including in-app chat and texting

New clients can sign up for an account and start booking service HERE.

Existing Pet and Home Care clients can easily access their accounts and manage services through the online portal. But for the best experience, all customers are encouraged to download and use the Time To Pet app on their mobile devices:

 

Download the Time To Pet App for ANDROID Devices

Download the Time To Pet App for APPLE Devices

 

Both the app and portal are designed for easy and intuitive use. But users with specific questions can turn to either Time to Pet’s mobile app help page or its online portal help page. New users may also prefer to watch Time To Pet’s video tutorial.

Access Pet and Home Care’s easy-to-use platform and book your upcoming pet care now!