Any smallholder knows how difficult it is to arrange cover for holidays and emergencies, so here’s our step-by-step approach to this essential service provision.
Step:1 Initial contact and enquiry
Contact us via Website/Phone/Email: Via the website is probably the easiest first point of contact, as I might be out on a job at the time. Each animal that is in my care is my primary concern, and I will reply to you as soon as they are safe and I am able to give you the same level of time/support and one to one communication.
Provide as much information as you can:
Provide a general overview of the smallholding (types of animals, size of property, etc):
- Species, breed, age and temperament
- Specific dietary needs and feeding schedules
- Medication requirements
- Exercise and turnout preferences
- Any behavioural quirks or special needs
Tell me your location and your potential desired pet visit/check in or sitting schedule.
Feel free to ask Questions: Such as our other services, my personal experience of animals, livestock and smallholdings, policies, and experience.
Step 2: Meet and Greet/Consultation
Schedule a Meeting: I will contact you to schedule an on-site visit so that I can familiarise myself with the smallholding.
Introduce the Animals: This is the point when you get to introduce your animals or pets to me in the safety and comfort of their own environment.
Discuss Specific Needs: You can provide me with detailed instructions on:
- Feeding schedules and amounts for each animal
- Watering systems and routines
- Cleaning and waste disposal procedures
- Security protocols for animals and property
- Location of supplies and equipment
- Emergency contact information (vet, farrier, etc.)
Animal-Specific Instructions: No two beasties are the same and everyone has their favourite spot/bucket, so you can tell me what works best.
Property Maintenance: You can specify any additional property checking tasks you’d like me to undertake, such as:
- Checking fences and gates
- Collecting eggs
- Basic garden watering
- Checking automatic watering systems
Contingency Planning: We can develop a plan for potential emergencies, such as:
- Animal illness or injury
- Severe weather conditions
- Power outages.
Review Policies and Procedures: I will explain our policies, procedures and safety measures.
Key Exchange/Access Instructions: We will discuss key exchange or access instructions.
Contract/Agreement: I will provide you will a copy of our contract/agreement which you can review and sign.
Your First Booking: I will set you up to use the booking system which allows you to have full control of your booked sessions and adjust these as you need to.
Step 3: Booking and Confirmation
Confirm Booking: You can use the booking system to find your desired care schedule.
Payment Arrangement: The booking system will allow you to make payment in advance of our booked session/s. Please note that no booking is confirmed until payment has been made.
Provide Detailed Instructions: Using the booking system, you can provide detailed instructions about your animals routine, any special needs, and emergency contact information.
Provide property/land access information: You will be able to provide Key location, alarm codes, or other necessary information.
Step 4: During the Visits and Communication
Smallholder Visit/Sitting: I will perform the agreed-upon visit, following the pet owner’s instructions.
Updates and Communication: I will provide updates to you, including photos or videos and will communicate any concerns or issues.
Problem Resolution: Any problems that arise will be communicated and resolved in a timely manner.
Step 5: Post-Visit and Follow-Up
Return of Keys/Confirmation of Property Security: I will return the keys to the appointed location or confirm that the location is secure (if you wish me to be a keyholder).
Feedback and Review: You will have the option to provide feedback to me and may leave a review online.
Regular Scheduling: By using the booking system, you can maintain a regular visit/sitting schedule, or book as and when required for holidays and emergencies.
Payment: The booking system will allow you to pay for all your animal and companion services in advance and allow you to have full control of rescheduling and cancellations.
Please note that any cancellations MUST be given at least 24hrs in advance or you will be charged anyway for a no-show.
If you need any further information, simply get in touch.