Frequently Asked Questions
Click the “+” sign below to see the answer to each question. For further questions, contact us!
How do I make reservations?
New clients, please text us for registration at 404-860-2922.
Existing clients can schedule visits in two ways:
1. Online via PetPocketbook
-
Book your visit through our scheduling system, PetPocketbook.
-
Once a sitter is assigned, you’ll receive a text confirmation.
-
An email confirmation will also be sent for each booked visit.
2. By Contacting the Office via Text
-
Text 404-860-2922 with your visit details (date, start and end time, visit times, and service).
-
Once a sitter is assigned, you’ll receive a text confirmation (please note, no email confirmation will be sent—our text serves as confirmation).
You can log into PetPocketbook (https://www.petpocketbook.com/login) at any time to view your scheduled visits and assigned sitter.
Why choose Barking Up the Right Tree?
Pet owners trust Barking Up the Right Tree for our professionalism, reliability, and commitment to excellence. As Atlanta’s premier pet sitting company, we are licensed, bonded, and insured, providing peace of mind with every visit. Our services include detailed visit reports, 24/7 access to an automated scheduling system, and clear, responsive communication. We take pride in delivering the highest level of customer service and professional pet care in the industry.
How do I make changes to existing reservations?
Please contact the office directly to make changes to your schedule.
What is a Meet and Greet and how do I prepare?
At its essence, a Meet and Greet is just that, an opportunity for you and your pet(s) to meet your pet sitter(s). You’ll show your sitter your pets’ routine, location of supplies/food, and provide any additional relevant information about your home or pet(s).
To prepare for your Meet and Greet, existing clients should log in here. Please ensure that all home and pet care instructions are updated in PetPocketbook.
For guidance, log in to PetPocketbook, click the blue bar on the left-hand side of the page, then select Get Help? at the bottom. From there, search for How do I edit my family profile? for step-by-step instructions. If you experience any login issues, please text our office at 404-860-2922.
If you are new to Barking Up the Right Tree and would like to register, text us at 404-860-2922 and we will send you an invite link to register with our online scheduling system PetPocketbook.
Please provide two (2) tested house keys and any fobs to the sitter at the Meet and Greet. For keyless entry or alarm systems, update your profile on PetPocketbook (hyperlink to login page) by clicking “Family Profile” (left blue bar), then “Edit,” and adding step-by-step instructions under “Access Instructions.” In addition, provide specific care instructions to the sitter.
How do I schedule services in the future?
To schedule services, current clients may schedule online.
Why can I not schedule directly with my pet sitter?
To ensure seamless, prompt, and accurate scheduling, all appointments are required to be made through our office . This guarantees that you receive a confirmation text verifying your service and sitter coverage. In the event of an emergency, our team can quickly step in to ensure uninterrupted care for your pets. Scheduling through the office also helps prevent errors that may occur if a sitter forgets to notify us or provides incorrect information. This process allows us to maintain the highest level of reliability and service for you and your pets.
How do I pay for pet sitting services and when will I be charged?
Accepted payment methods:
Credit/debit card (there is a 5% processing fee charged by PetPocketbook if you use this payment method)
Venmo (there is no extra fee to use Venmo)
Please note it is required to have a credit/debit card on file, even if you choose to pay via Venmo.
You can securely enter your card information in PetPocketbook for seamless payment processing.
-
AutoPay Option: Enable AutoPay to have your card charged automatically when your invoice is generated. A receipt will be emailed to you for confirmation.
-
Manual Payment via Invoice: If you prefer to pay manually, turn off AutoPay. Your invoice will be emailed to you, and you can make a payment via credit or debit card.
-
Venmo Payment: To pay via Venmo, ensure AutoPay is turned off. Once you receive your invoice, log into your Venmo account and send payment using our Venmo handle, which is listed at the bottom of your invoice.
Invoices are generated either on the last day of your appointment or every Monday for visits completed the prior Monday through Sunday. For example, if your appointment runs from Thursday to the following Wednesday, you will be billed that Monday for visits completed Thursday through Sunday and again on Wednesday for the remaining visits.
Tips are not required, but are appreciated for a job well done. 100% of tips goes directly to your sitter. You may add a recurring tip that will automatically be charged to each invoice, or you may add a tip to your invoice or Venmo payment.
Why do you need two sets of house keys? Can I just give you one?
All clients are required to provide two sets of house keys—no exceptions. One set will remain with your primary pet sitter, while the other will be securely stored in our office for emergency use only. If a secondary sitter is assigned, please provide them with a key to ensure the office copy remains on file. You will have the opportunity to meet your secondary sitter during a Meet and Greet. For your security, all keys are coded and can be returned upon request at any time.
Can I hide a key or give a garage code?
Yes! Please enter your door or garage code under Access Instructions in PetPocketbook. This ensures that if there’s an emergency and another sitter needs to step in, we have secure access to your home.
In case of a power outage or technical issue that prevents code access, we strongly recommend providing the office with a physical key or securely hiding one on your property. If you choose to hide a key, please ensure it is in a safe and discreet location.
For added security, we highly recommend using a lockbox to store your key. Please note that BURT is not liable for lost or stolen keys or unauthorized access beyond the sitter’s use.
What is a primary sitter?
A primary sitter is your pet’s dedicated caregiver, providing consistent, personalized care during each visit. They build a bond with your pet, ensuring familiarity, comfort, and routine while you’re away.
Our goal is to have your primary sitter assigned to each appointment. However, scheduling conflicts may occasionally arise, meaning your primary sitter might not be available or may only be able to cover part of your appointment. If this happens, we will arrange for a second sitter—or possibly a third—and schedule a Meet & Greet before your appointment to ensure a smooth transition.
How do I communicate with my pet sitter while they're taking care of my pets?
During your Meet & Greet, be sure to discuss your communication preferences with your pet sitter.
Our booking system, PetPocketbook, includes a report card that sitters complete at the end of each visit. This report provides key details such as potty breaks, water, food, and overall care. There’s also a text box for notes about the visit, along with options to attach photos and videos. This will be sent via email.
If you prefer updates via text, just let your sitter know! You’ll still receive the report card, but we understand that texting can be a more convenient option.
We want you to feel informed and at ease while your pet is in our care!
I have a special needs pet, can you accommodate special requests?
As professional pet sitters, we’re equipped to care for pets of all ages, sizes, temperaments, and special needs. Whether your pet requires medication, insulin, or fluid administration, we have experienced sitters who can help. Contact us to discuss your pet’s specific needs and our availability!
What is your cancellation policy?
Please contact the office directly for any additions, cancellations, changes, or scheduling requests.
Holiday Cancellations: Require at least 7 days’ notice.
Cancellations:
- Before 24 hours of first visit, no charge (excluding holidays)
-
Within 24 hours of the first visit: 50% charge.
-
If the sitter arrives and the visit is canceled: 100% charge.
Late Bookings:
-
Visits scheduled within 12 hours of the start time will incur a $10 late booking fee.
Do you require a minimum number of visits per day while I’m out of town?
In order to provide the best possible service and in keeping with the terms of our insurance policy, we require a minimum of one visit per day for cats and small animals and two visits per day for dogs during the duration of your trip. It is recommended to schedule 3 visits a day for dogs if you will be out of town more than a few days. If you have elderly pets or puppies it is recommended to have a minimum of 4 visits each day.
Do you take last minute requests?
We’re happy to accommodate last-minute pet service requests whenever possible. For requests made with less than 24 hours’ notice, please email admin@burtpetsitters.com or text 404-860-2922. A $10 late booking fee will apply.
Do you offer refunds?
We do not charge for appointments up front, so you will only be billed for visits that are completed by your sitter. In the event there is an error on your invoice, we will provide a credit on account which will be automatically applied to your next invoice.
What happens during inclement weather?
To ensure the safety of our sitters and community, we activate our Inclement Weather Plan when schools close due to hazardous conditions. If this happens, we’ll notify affected clients via text. Services may be canceled or schedules adjusted as needed.
Please provide an emergency contact who can care for your pets if we are unable to reach your home. This person should be within walking distance and have a working key.
For your sitter’s safety, please clear steps and walkways of ice, snow, and debris or arrange for a neighbor to do so when you’re away. Sitters may also shorten outdoor exercise during extreme weather, replacing it with indoor play and TLC.
Do you have references?
Our satisfied clients are happy to speak with you about their experience with us. Please contact us for a list of references in your area.
Do you have a referral program?
As part of Barking Up the Right Tree’s Referral Rewards Program, referring clients will receive a $10 credit on your account when the referred party books 3 visits with us. Barking Up the Right Tree Reward credits expire six months from the date of the credit. There is no limit to how many credits you can get so spread the word!
May I tip my pet sitter?
Tips are never expected but always appreciated. You are welcome to reward your pet sitter for a job well done by leaving a tip for them directly.