How much time do you spend with my cats?
Visits are approximately 30 minutes in length. The basics (food, water and litter) only take a few minutes. The rest of the time is spent doing what makes this more than a job: entertaining kitties.

How do we get started?
We set up a time for Shelly and/or Nicole to stop by and meet you and your pets. This gives us the opportunity to learn your cats routine as well as collect information regarding the care of your pet and home. It also gives you and your pets a chance to meet and become comfortable with us. We understand that cats are not one size fits all and it’s important to us to understand what works best for yours. There is no charge for this meeting.

How do I schedule visits?
Once you become a client you may schedule visits via our software, a phone call or via email. The more notice you give us, the better; however we do our best to accommodate all requests.

What time do you visit my cat?
Visits generally occur in the morning and afternoon. Evening visits are reserved for pets with medical or dietary requirements.  Unless otherwise specified “final” visits occur before noon.

Who will take care of my cat?  Can I meet them?
Your primary sitter will be Nicole or Shelly depending on your geographic location. When either of them is unavailable the other provides coverage. During the holidays or when things are overly busy, to ensure the kitties get the attention they deserve, we have a team of independent contractors (all of whom are covered by our insurance) we rely on to assist us. With adequate notice we are happy to set up a complimentary meeting for you and your pets to meet your backup sitter.

What if there’s a big earthquake?
Shelly was one of those people locked in a server room at the turn of the century, waiting for the big Y2K disaster. She made the decision, early on, to limit the size of Tales of the Kitty’s service area so that, if necessary, we are able to reach all pets on foot. Be assured that if there is an earthquake or other disaster we will get to your pet and if necessary will find alternate housing for them. Please contact us if you would like more information.

How much notice do you need to care for my pets?
The more notice you provide, the better however we understand that last minute travel is sometimes unavoidable and that last minute opportunities present themselves. In such instances we will do everything possible to accommodate your request.

What if I have to cancel visits?
Please let us know as soon as possible. For cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance there is no charge. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice may be assessed a charge equal to one visit. During the holidays 72 hours notice is required to avoid a cancellation charge.

Will you return my keys?
Most clients prefer to leave their keys on file with us. We understand that for some this is not possible. If special arrangements must be made to pick up or return keys,a charge will apply. One benefit of leaving keys on file with us is if necessary we can provide lock-out service. 

Are you insured?  Bonded?
We are insured and bonded through Pet Sitters Associates.  Click here for details regarding limits of coverage.

Do you have references?
In addition to the testimonials on this website and our Yelp reviews we have many clients who would be happy to speak with you. Please contact us if you would like their contact information.

Can you call me while I am away?
We are happy to make occasional updates however it is our policy that we do not provide updates every day.  If we miss a day (which is entirely possible) we do not want you to worry that something is wrong. Please know that if anything is found amiss in your home or with your pets you will be notified immediately.

What if you can’t get in to my home?
We have a relationship with a local locksmith, please be assured we will gain entry to your home.

What if I am delayed returning?
Let us know as soon as possible and we will continue visits until you return.

How long have you been pet sitting?
Shelly began pet sitting in 2001. Nicole began in 2005.

What if emergency pet care services are needed?
If your pet needs immediate attention we will contact your vet and if they are available we will take your pet to them. If your vet is unavailable we will take them to an emergency vet. If it does not appear that your pet needs immediate assistance but is not quite “right” we are fortunate to have personal relationships with several local vets and are able to contact them for advice.

Who did your website?
Christine McCall. She took an idea which had been percolating in my head for years, turned it into something tangible and in my opinion, absolutely amazing.

How do you get such great cat photos?
It’s definitely not camera specific, I use a Canon Elph much more often than my fancy Canon DSLR.  The keys for me are natural light (flash never agrees with kitties) and continuous shutter. For every good photo I get I’ve taken at least 20 that aren’t worth keeping.

Who did your logo?