FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. What kind of animals do you care for?
A. At this time we only service dogs.
Q. What is your service area?
A. We’re based in Lincoln Park and serve the surrounding areas: Lakeview, Bucktown, Old Town, Goldcoast, Wicker Park and Wrigleyville.
Q. What do you require from my dog?
A. Your dog is required to wear a collar with an ID tag with your phone number, and current contact information.
Q. Do you train dogs?
A. No, we are not professional dog trainers, but we do know proper dog walking techniques and are adept on how to use leashes, harnesses and gentle leaders.
We are willing to reinforce simple positive behaviors such as sit, down, stay, and how to take a treat gently.
We believe solely in positive reinforcement training and discipline. We can also provide referrals to professional dog trainers as well.
Q. Do you administer medication to pets?
A. Yes, we administer medication per your detailed directions. Pills and drops are administered at no additional charge, and injections for a nominal charge.
Q. Do you provide service in my home or yours?
A. Animals tend to get somewhat stressed by a change in routine and location, so the benefit of partnering with us allows your pets to stay in their home and to maintain their regular patterns and sleeping spots. This keeps your pet happy and stress-free, and you can come home to a happy and “poop-free” home!
Q. Why is it important that my animal care provider’s company be licensed, insured and bonded?
A. Let’s Walk Chicago is a professional business licensed in the city of Chicago which means we pay taxes and must follow business ethics and legal requirements.
We also carry specific pet sitters’ commercial liability insurance through Pet Sitters Associates, LLC, which covers bodily injury or property damage as well as loss, injury or death of your animal, limited emergency veterinary care, and lost key replacement.
We also have an expanded bonded policy through Pet Sitters Associates, LLC, which means we are covered if an employee is convicted due to a dishonest act (standard bonding) or if we’re at fault for negligent acts by our employees in your home (expanded bonding).
All of these important business policies and licenses guarantee that you are working with a professional business with strict ethics, principals and values. Please request a copy of our licenses and policies if you want more details and/or insurance coverage.
Q. What will Let’s Walk Chicago do if my pet suffers an acute illness or is injured while I am away?
A. During our initial consultation, we will document your pet’s medical issues and medications and, during our visits, to the best of our ability, look for any symptoms of illness.
We will contact your emergency number immediately to discuss treatment if your pet displays signs of acute distress. If unable to reach you, we’ll contact your preferred veterinary clinic or emergency hospital and continue to try contacting you to discuss treatment and payment arrangements.
If your pet is hurt, injured or bites another animal or person under our care, we will contact your emergency number immediately and bring your pet to the vet or emergency hospital if needed.
All of our walkers are certified in Red Cross Animal First Aid.
Q. What does the free initial consultation include?
A. Our initial consultation with you is very important for both of us. We’ll come to your home and meet with you and your pet(s), discuss their routine and needs, and address any medical issues and walking concerns.
We will review the services that we offer and discuss any customization you desire that we’re able to provide. In addition, our policies, procedures and contract will be discussed and your questions will be addressed. At this point, you will fill out your pet’s health records and we will document any procedures you want us to follow for the services you request.
This consultation is complimentary and is essential to assure that we’re both fully informed and comfortable with our partnership. Bottom line: we hope for a long-term, enjoyable relationship with both you and your pets.
Q. Can I be assured of the same Dog Walker each time?
A. We prefer to maintain the same dog walker assigned to you for each visit. If your Walker is not available for any reason you will be notified in advance.
All Let’s Walk Chicago Walkers are covered by our liability and bonding insurance at all times.
Q. How does my Dog Walker get into my home?
A. During the initial meeting, we will obtain a copy of needed keys from you. Keys will be coded and kept in a secure location at all times.
We will also outline your home’s security access requirements, including alarm systems and codes. We’ll need your security codes in order to prevent setting off an alarm upon our entry and to re-secure the home when we leave. As with your keys, this confidential information will be kept safe and secure in our Headquarters.
Q. How and when do I pay you?
A. Payments can be made via check or credit card, all payments should be made by the agreed upon payment date. There is a $25 fee for returned checks.
Q. May I give my Walker a gratuity?
A. Yes and they will certainly appreciate it! We prefer that you add the gratuity directly to your bill so that there is no confusion with leaving money in your home for them. All gratuities go directly to your Dog Walker.
Q. How do I get in contact with you or sign up as a client?
A. Please call Let’s Walk Chicago’s owner, Steven May, at 773-857-1261 anytime, or send an email to steve@letswalkchicago.com to schedule a free consultation or to make any additional inquiries not addressed in this website. We would be happy to answer all your questions immediately and we look forward to serving you!
