F.A.Q.
Q: How long has Hounds on the Hudson been around?
A: We were founded in 2006 but have been in the pet care industry since 1999.
Q: What are the advantages of a dog walker over daycare or kennels?
A: Dog daycare can reinforce undesirable behavior in your dog and may cause anxiety from a new and ever-changing environment. Many common dog illnesses can also be contracted in the daycare and kennel environment, making it unsafe for puppies and some older dogs. A dog walker allows your dog to maintain their regular schedule in their familiar environment, while providing you both with the best possible personal attention and care.
Q: How do I set up service?
A: Send us an email or call Jen during business hours to arrange for a free consultation at your home. During this time we’ll meet you and your pet(s), discuss your pets individual needs and the type of service requested, make sure they have proper ID tags and collars, and get a copy of a key from you. You will receieve proof of our insurance as well as a copy of our service policies.
Q: What areas do you cover?
A: We cover the Center Square, Washington Park, Hudson/Park, Mansion, Pastures, Pine Hills, Campus, Eagle Hill, Helderberg, North Albany/Shaker Park, Delaware Ave and New Scotland neighborhoods in Albany. We also cover most areas in Delmar, Rennselaer and Troy. Other areas may be covered upon request and for an additional charge.
Q: Is the company and its staff bonded and insured?
A: Yes. We are insured and bonded through Pet Sitters Associates, LLC.
Q: Do you have references?
A: Yes, available upon request
Q: Do you only care for dogs?
A: No. We also care for cats, birds, fish, and other small animals.
Q: Do you only accept well-trained dogs?
A: No, we accept dogs at whatever stage of learning they are at. Dog walking often helps with training. Although we are not certified trainers, we like to know and use whatever commands and behaviors you and your pet are practicing. We use basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “heel,” “lay down,” and “leave it,” and welcome your suggestions.
Q: Do you offer discounts? Have a referral program?
A: We offer discounts for our regular (M-F) clients and senior citizens.
For each referral you give Hounds on the Hudson that results in a regular client, we will credit your account for a free 45 minute walk or pet-sitting visit.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: To be fair to other clients, we appreciate cancellations as soon as you know you won’t need our services. We ask that at the latest walks be canceled by 9am on the day of the scheduled walk or the walk will still be charged for.
Q: How do you bill for your services?
A: Regular clients are billed once monthly, with payment due by the 5th of the each month. Invoices are sent by email (a paper copy can be left upon request) and payment can be made in cash, check, or online via Paypal. All pet-sitting and one-time/occasional services are pre-paid until we have established a relationship with you and your pet.
Q: How do you ensure my pet’s safety?
A: Your pet’s safety is a top concern of ours. All dogs are walked on-leash (unless otherwise instructed) and never left unattended. Dog temperaments and dispositions are matched to ensure they are a good fit with one another. All our dog walkers and pet sitters are Red Cross Pet First Aid certified. During our initial consultation, please go over any health or safety concerns you may have with your pet.
Q: Where are pets boarded?
A: We board dogs in our own homes as a service to our regular clients. Space is limited, as we like to provide the most personal care for your dog(s). Dogs are treated as our own in a home environment. All boarding includes three 30 minute walks a day plus short bathroom breaks, feeding, basic grooming (brush and nail trim), play time and/or socialization with other dogs, a comfy bed, and lots of belly rubs and scratches behind the ears.
