Frequently Asked Questions

This is the question every pet parent asks, and honestly, it's the one I take most seriously. Here's exactly what I'll do:

1. I'll call you immediately. You'll be the first to know what's happening.
2. If I can't reach you or it's a serious emergency, I'll take your pet directly to their regular vet (or the nearest emergency clinic if it's after hours).
3. I'll keep trying to reach you and will update you as soon as we're in touch.

I'm also certified in pet first aid and CPR, so if your pet needs immediate help, I know what to do while we're getting them to the vet. I've got a level head in stressful situations, and I promise I'll do everything I can to keep your pet safe.

Absolutely! I've been doing this for years, so I'm comfortable with pretty much anything:

• Pills – I'm really good at the hide-it-in-cheese trick (or peanut butter, or whatever works for your pet)
• Liquid medications – No problem
• Insulin injections for dogs – I've done it many times
• Topical treatments – Creams, ointments, ear drops, you name it
• Cat insulin – Let's talk about your cat's specific routine during our meet & greet so I can make sure I understand exactly what they need

If you're giving meds as part of another service (like a walk or visit), it's just an extra $5. If I'm only stopping by to give medication, it's $15 for the visit.

I serve the Atlanta Metro area, including Buckhead, North Druid Hills, Clarkston, Scottsdale, Candler-McAfee, and East Atlanta.

If you're not sure whether I cover your area, just ask! I might be able to work it out, especially if you're a regular client or if it's close to my usual route.

I like to keep it simple! I accept:

• Venmo
• Apple Pay
• Check
• Cash

Here's how it works: When you book, you'll pay a deposit to hold your dates. Then, after I've completed the services, you'll pay the remaining balance using whatever method works best for you.

For sure! I'm happy to connect you with current clients who can tell you about their experience with me. I've been doing this for 6 years and have cared for over 75 pets, so I've got plenty of happy pet parents who are willing to share their stories. Just let me know and I'll put you in touch!

I've been running Shadow Paws professionally for 6 years, but honestly, I've been taking care of animals my whole life. I got my first pet when I was 13, so that's 17 years of hands-on experience with all kinds of animals. Over the past 6 years, I've cared for more than 75 pets — dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, you name it. Each one has taught me something new.

If you're already a client and I have time in my schedule, I'll do my best to help you out! There's a $10 same-day fee to cover the last-minute scheduling.

If you're a new client, I do require a meet & greet before I can provide any services. It's really important to me that we meet first so I can get to know you and your pets, and so you feel comfortable with me coming into your home.

I do! Pets still need care on holidays — sometimes even more than usual if families are traveling. I want to make sure your furry friends don't get forgotten just because it's a holiday.

There is a holiday surcharge:

• $20 per night for house sitting
• $10 per visit for dog walks or drop-in visits

Holidays include: New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

I love puppies! They're so adorable and full of energy... which is also why they require a little extra attention. Puppies under 1 year are still learning routines, might have accidents, and usually have way more energy than adult dogs.

Because of this, there's a $5 surcharge for puppies. During our meet & greet, we'll talk about your puppy's routine, any training you're working on, and how I can help support that while you're away.

Not always! For our first visit (the meet & greet), I do ask that you're home so we can meet, go over everything, and make sure everyone's comfortable.

After that, you don't need to be home for future visits. We'll figure out the best way for me to access your home, whether that's a key in a lockbox, a door code, or however else works for you. I'll make sure everything is secure when I leave, and I'll always lock up behind me.

Absolutely! When you're away, I want your home to look lived-in so it doesn't attract any unwanted attention. I'm happy to:

• Bring in mail and packages
• Water plants
• Rotate lights or open/close blinds
• Take trash cans to/from the curb
• Whatever else you need!

Just let me know during our meet & greet, and I'll add it to my routine.

No judgment here! Lots of pets are nervous around new people, and that's totally okay! I've worked with shy dogs, anxious cats, and pets who take a little longer to warm up.

During our meet & greet, I'll take things at your pet's pace. I won't rush them, and I'll use treats and patience to build trust. If your pet has specific triggers or needs special handling, just let me know and we'll figure out the best approach together.

I've dealt with leash-reactive dogs, pets who need medication for anxiety, and animals with all kinds of quirks. We'll make it work!

Life happens, and I totally get that plans change! Here's how I handle cancellations:

• More than 24 hours notice: No charge. Just let me know and we'll reschedule.
• Less than 24 hours notice: You'll be charged 50% of the scheduled visit fee.
• No-show or same-day cancellation: Full charge for the visit.

I know this might sound strict, but when you cancel last-minute, it means I can't fill that spot with another client, and as a one-person business, that really affects my schedule. I appreciate your understanding!