Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make reservations?

If you've used our service before, just drop us an email or call us. We prefer to take reservations via email, that way we have a written record of your requests, which helps eliminate any confusion about dates or specific instructions. Also, we like to give our undivided attention to the pets in our care, which means we prefer not to answer phone calls on the pets' time.

If you've never used our service before, please fill out an Online Signup Form or drop us an email. We require a brief meeting with you and your pets before committing to care for them.

How much notice do you need to care for my pets?

Obviously, the more notice you can give, the better, especially if you're a new client. A week's notice is usually sufficient, depending on the time of year. Holidays and school vacation times are busy for everyone (especially pet sitters!), so it's best to make reservations as far in advance as possible.

However, we also understand that occasionally emergencies arise, so we do make every effort to accommodate "last-minute" requests!

I've always dropped my pets off at a kennel when I've gone on vacation. What are the advantages of using a professional pet sitter?

We charge by the visit, not by the number of pets. If you have multiple pets, using an in-home pet sitter can save you a considerable amount of money. More importantly, animals are creatures of habit. Familiar sights, sounds, smells and toys are quite comforting to animals when their humans are not around. Our job is to be there for your pets when you can't be, so we make every effort to ensure there is little (if any) disruption to your pet's normal routine. And of course, your pet is lavished with love, attention, and plenty of playtime. Remember, we're there to be your pet's pal!

Do you provide care for any other animals besides cats and dogs?

Absolutely. we provide care for most household pets, including birds, fish, reptiles, rabbits, and rodents. Unfortunately, we do not offer equine or livestock services at this time. If you require care for your horse or livestock, we can refer you to a sitter who specializes in these animals.

How do I know that Peace of Mind Pals is trustworthy and qualified to care for my companion animals?

Peace of Mind Pals is a member of and fully insured by Pet Sitters Associates, LLC, and is bonded by Business Insurers of the Carolinas. In addition to being highly respected in the local community, Peace of Mind Pals is also a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters , Pet Sitters International, The Humane Society of the United States, and several online petsitting discussion groups. We are also committed to going easy on the environment, which is why we use biodegradable pickup bags and organic, locally produced dog treats whenever possible!

 

Meet our sitters:

Marie (South Portland, Scarborough, Cape Elizabeth, and intown Portland)

Marie is the owner and "top cat" at Peace of Mind Pals. She founded the business in 2004. After thoroughly researching career possibilities in the animal care field, she decided that being an animal caregiver best suited her personality, and enabled her to combine her two greatest loves: animals and the Great Outdoors. Her experience includes volunteer work as a Feline Specialist at The Animal Welfare Society in West Kennebunk, as an Assistant Trainer for My Wonderful Dog, a nonprofit organization that specializes in training service dogs for disabled individuals, and certification in Pet First Aid and CPR by the American Red Cross. In addition, she is involved with several animal rights causes, and has been a strict vegetarian for 15 years and counting.

She recently purchased a home in South Portland, where she is owned by two Golden Retrievers, Stewie and Seamus, and two cats, Murphy and Sugarbear. While caring for your companion animals, Marie promises to treat them with as much respect, dignity, and love as her own furry pals.

Jennifer (Portland, South Portland, Cape Elizabeth, and Falmouth)

Jen comes to Peace of Mind Pals with an extensive background in animal care. Her experience includes volunteering in several capacities at the Animal Refuge League in Westbrook, working as a veterinary technician at a local animal hospital, working as an adoption counselor at the MSPCA, and volunteering for the House Rabbit Connection. Prior to working with Peace of Mind Pals, Jen was a longtime client.

Jen makes her home on Portland's East End, where she is currently pursuing a degree in Humane Education under the strict supervision of her four cats and four rabbits.

Luanne (West Scarborough & Pine Point, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, and Biddeford)

Luanne can most often be found on the dog friendly beaches and woods of Southern Maine, leading doggie nature hikes and field trips, demonstrating her natural ability as "leader of the pack". In addition to doggie duties, she is a favorite among our kitty clients as well, due to her innate understanding of the "feline mystique". Luanne has recently purchased a home in Saco, where she resides with her three very large, very clever cats.