POLICIES & LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS

All APS service contracts will remain valid for future services, with the exception of any agreed upon changes in rates, fees, visit dates, and/or times (oral or written). Online polices take precedence over all policies in print. The Client (Pet Owner) hereto agrees as follows:

• Client agrees to any future Angel Pet Sitters term changes relayed verbally to the Client, mailed, or e-mailed in writing to the client, or posted on our website at angelpetsitters.com under the heading Policies and Legal Considerations.


• APS pet sitters agree to provide services stated in this contract in a reliable and trustworthy manner. In consideration of these services and as an express condition thereof, the client expressly waives any and all claims against APS or its pet sitters, unless arising from gross negligence on the part of APS. Claims of negligence that involve an Independent Contractor, hired by APS, will be the responsibility of the Independent Contractor and the company they represent. Such claims will not be filed against APS. All hired Independent Contractors should carry liability insurance with optional coverage or bonding through a reputable company.


• APS is not responsible for any damage to property of the client or others unless such damage is caused by gross negligence on the part of the pet sitter. APS agrees to remain fully insured through PSA or a comparable entity, including optional Special Property Endorsement (protects against theft, breakage, etc., as caused by an pet sitter or independent contractor) or bonding. APS accepts no responsibility for security of the premises or loss if other individuals have access to the client's home, or if the home is not properly secured by Client.


• APS is not responsible for damage to the home beyond the control of the pet sitter. This includes, but is not limited to leaks, electrical problems, and acts of nature. In these situations, the company will attempt to contact the Client and then the emergency contact before making a subjective decision with regard to dealing with the problem. All repairs and related fees (including Special Service emergency service time and coordination fees) will be paid by the Client, or fully reimbursed to APS within 5 days.


• The terms of the APS service contract, policies and legal considerations apply to all pets owned by the Client, including any and all new pets that the Client obtains on or after the date this document was signed, and at any and all locations the owner designates for service.


• Pet Owner must have legal rights to place pets in the care of pet sitters, kennels, groomers, and veterinary clinics. The pet sitter cannot service a home with “visiting” pets or animals that do not belong to the resident of the service site without separate sets of agreement forms, including a signed Service Contract, Service Request form, and acceptance of all legal considerations and policies. These must be signed and accepted by the RIGHTFUL owner of the visiting pets. APS will not be held responsible if a Pet Owner lies to us about the ownership of pets in their home.


• APS and its pet sitters shall not be held responsible for the loss, injury or death of any pet(s) that the client has let outside or has instructed the sitter or a third party to allow outside unsupervised and without a leash (whether in a fenced or unfenced area). It is solely the Client’s responsibility to pet-proof any areas of the home and/or property to which the pet has access. This includes thoroughly inspecting fences, gates, latches, doors, and other devices meant to contain the pet or restrict access to specific areas. APS does not assume responsibility and is not liable for any injuries the pet may sustain or property damage the pet may cause while in its own home/property.


• Client agrees to hold harmless APS for any liability or damage, including, without limitation, to property, persons or animals, caused by any action, or failure to act, by Client, Client's agents, pet sitters, or third persons. Such actions or failures to act may include, but shall not be limited to: windows left open, doors left unlocked or doors that do not latch properly, unsecured yards which APS is instructed to let pets out into, faulty gates or garage doors, water pipes, air vents, pet doors, and/or other appurtenances or elements within the Client's control and not addressed by Client prior to Client's departure.


• APS is not liable for any loss or damage in the event of a burglary or other crime that should occur while under this contract. Our pet sitters always ensure that our Clients' doors are locked when they depart, but we have no control over what may occur while we are not in the client's home. Client agrees to secure home prior to leaving the premises. APS will re-secure the home to the best of its ability at the end of each visit. Keys are always returned to Client’s lock box at the end of each visit.


• All other individuals (other than APS representatives) visiting the home during the client's absence MUST leave a log of their visit, which will include their reason for being in the home, their name, a contact number, and time of their arrival and departure. An optional form will be provided upon request. APS asks that the Client schedule all other services, such as housekeeping, pool cleaning and yard work, for dates when APS will not be providing service. APS cannot be held liable for the deeds or misdeeds of other individuals. It is the Client’s responsibility to ensure that APS is provided with information regarding any friends, relatives, neighbors, or others whom the client has given access to the home in their absence.


• The Client understands that all pets (where appropriate) must have a veterinarian and be currently vaccinated.


• No dogs will be allowed to roam or be allowed off a leash under any circumstances while outside in unfenced areas or off the Client’s property. Owners of free-roaming cats agree to hold APS completely harmless in the event cat(s) are injured or killed, do not return home, etc. If client has an invisible fence, dogs will not be allowed to roam free within invisible fence—they must be leashed. (For more details regarding this policy, please contact management.) Client is responsible for adhering to all national, state, and local animal laws and ordinances.


• APS will not accept jobs caring for outdoor dogs that are in heat. The risk Is simply too great. We will, however, agree to care for them indoors, and will supervise them within a securely fenced backyard while they relieve themselves. (We will not walk dogs that are in heat).
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• APS does not diagnose or make therapy decisions, nor does it offer veterinary services. Any medical concerns will be deferred to a veterinarian.


• Client acknowledges that APS will give insulin injections as instructed by Client, however, APS cannot guarantee the outcome of such injections. Client understands that APS pet sitters are not experienced in veterinary care. We will care for diabetic pets provided their condition is stable and client provides us with accurate dosing instructions. We do not do glucose testing. Client understands the risks involved, and agrees that APS will not be held liable for harm or death to pet(s) resulting from insulin injections. Client also holds APS harmless in the event the pet(s) suffers adverse reactions or shock while APS pet sitters are away from the Client's home.


• APS will not pet sit for acutely ill pets, pets with uncontrolled/untreated medical conditions, dogs that jump constantly, or any pets that are aggressive. We suggest the pet be boarded with a veterinarian or at a kennel.


• APS will make every effort to administer medications that the pet(s) in our care requires. However, if the pet absolutely refuses to cooperate, client authorizes and accepts charges for transport of pet(s) to veterinarian and for veterinary administration of medications. In the event the pet continues to prevent us from medicating them, client agrees to allow us to leave the pet with the vet, and accepts all charges.


• APS is authorized to seek any emergency veterinarian assistance needed during visits, at the cost of the Client, from any veterinarian as chosen by the sitter, should Client’s own vet not be available. We will, of course, make an effort to contact the Client before veterinary care is sought, but reserve the right to have pets treated, in the event the Client and their emergency contact is unreachable. APS, will not be held responsible for the health/well-being of the pet should Client refuse veterinary care when pet sitter deems it is necessary.


• Pet Owner will be responsible for all medical expenses, and damages resulting from an injury to a pet sitter, or other persons, by the pet. Client agrees to indemnify, hold harmless, and defend APS in the event of a claim by any person injured by the pet.


• Pet Owner is responsible for supplying the necessary, safe equipment/supplies needed for the care of their pet(s), including but not limited to: a sturdy, well-fit harness (halter, collar, etc.) for walks or in case of emergencies; firmly attached vaccination tags, a lead rope or leash, poop-scooping bags, litter boxes, pet food, cleaning supplies, medicines, cat litter and cat litter boxes. Pet Owner authorizes any purchases necessary for the satisfactory performance of duties. Pet Owner agrees to be responsible for the payment or reimbursement of such items, as well as service fees for obtaining items, and will reimburse APS within 3 days of their return, for all purchases made.


• APS highly recommends that Client have pet(s) microchipped for identification purposes. If the city in which the Client resides requires microchipping for pets, Client is responsible for adhering to the requirement. APS will not be held liable if the city should find a pet without the required microchip (as in the case of free roaming cats).


• If pet(s) should foul a floor, wall, carpet, upholstery, or other area, we will do our best to clean the area(s), per Client's instructions, with Client’s cleaning supplies, provided we notice it. We will not be held responsible if despite our cleaning efforts, a stain or odor remains. Furthermore, if Client insists upon fewer than 3 daily visits for indoor dogs, we will agree to perform services, but Client agrees to hold APS completely harmless in the even the pet should soil the Client's home.


• APS is not responsible for wilted, dead, or otherwise unhealthy plants. APS will work hard to follow Client's written directions as precisely as possible, but cannot be responsible if the results are not favorable. Please place all indoor plants together on a waterproof surface in plain sight, as pet sitter is not responsible for water damaged areas or missed plants.


• We will clean pet bowls and litter boxes as necessary, but will not perform any household duties (dishes, ashtrays, etc.) Additionally, we will not be held responsible for damage as a result of the client’s negligence (mold, bad odors, burning cigarettes, running water, etc.)


• If in the course of our service Client's pet should soil itself to the point that it requires cleaning, APS will bathe the pet or transport to a groomer, but we must charge an additional fee (Usually charged according to time involved). We cannot be held responsible for the quality of the bath. Our main goal is to prevent the pet from spreading excrement/urine throughout the house. Some pets dislike bathing and may be aggressive or panic. If the pet displays aggression or becomes a threat to our well-being and we cannot bathe it, we will not be held responsible for the consequences to pet(s) or home.


• APS is not an errand service. However, if need dictates that we must replenish supplies, we will charge according to our current rate. (A minimum 1/2 hour charge will be assessed for EACH errand run).


• APS reserves the right to terminate this contract, if at any time, before or during its term, APS, in its sole discretion, determines that Client’s pet poses a danger to the health or safety of the sitter, or if the Client breaches contract due to non-payment, lying about pet aggression or medical condition, etc. If concerns prohibit APS from caring for pet, Client authorizes pet to be placed in a kennel, with all charges (including transport, kenneling, etc.) to be paid by Client or reimbursed to APS. If an APS pet sitter, independent contractor, or representative is bitten, scratched, or otherwise Injured by a pet, and requires medical treatment, Client is responsible for any and all medical expenses.


• APS will not walk unruly/untrained dogs, or dogs that choke themselves on their leash. We will not walk dogs in stormy weather, or during holidays when fireworks may be discharged.


• APS is not responsible if, despite our best efforts, a pet refuses to eat, to accept medication, or to be walked. Pets that will not eat or take medication will be transported to a vet. We reserve the right to attempt to walk a dog for a period of five days. If after that time period we are still unable to walk the dog, we must terminate our agreement. Client is responsible for payment of visits even if we are unable to walk dog.


• APS is covered by a dishonesty bond and commercial liability coverage. However, we are not responsible for damage done by Client’s pet to Client’s property. Additionally, It is expressly understood and agreed that APS shall not be held responsible for any damage to Client's property or animals, or that of others' property or animals, and Client agrees to advise APS of any situations or conditions that could bear on liability for damage or injury.


• APS will not guarantee specific time slots. A 2-3 hour window is acceptable, except in the case of pets that require medication at a specific time (in which case a one hour window is acceptable). Pet sitting hours fall between the hours of 7am and 7pm and are usually completed during this time period, unless we have a heavy workload. (Special arrangements can be made for overnight stays.) In the case of clients requiring visits only once a day, we do not offer a choice of time slot. These visits will be scheduled to fit between our other visits. We will ensure that they are scheduled no more than 24 hours apart.


• APS reserves the right to deny service or terminate service for any reason, but especially in the case of safety concerns, financial concerns, unsanitary conditions, inhumane treatment of animals, non-payment of services, or situations that the pet sitter deems inappropriate or uncomfortable.


• In case of a pet sitter's personal emergency, family crisis, illness, vacations, or personal leave, Client authorizes APS to arrange for another qualified person to fulfill responsibilities as set forth in this contract, without prior notification to Client. Client waives the right to a meeting with the person who will fulfill these responsibilities, in the interest of time limitations and due to the fact that the person will not be a permanent pet care provider. If Client insists upon meeting with substitute pet sitter, meeting will be billed at the rate of a pet sitting visit.


• APS will not answer Client's phone while Client is away, nor will APS be held responsible for important calls Client may have missed while out. Additionally, should APS have to call Client due to an emergency or questionable situation, we will bill Client, at our discretion, for the call, if excessive charges are incurred.


• If APS is unable to enter Client’s home to render services with the key Client has provided, APS is authorized to use a locksmith and bill Client for all expenses incurred.


• APS does not, under any circumstances, agree to job sharing with client’s relatives, friends, neighbors, or others. Should anyone besides APS enter the home with the intention of caring for or interacting with Client’s pets, whether with Client’s express permission or not, APS is automatically released from ALL liability, and Client will be deemed to be in breach of contract.


• It is our policy not to discuss details of Client's absence with anyone, except in the case of an emergency. Client may wish to contact the police department and/or your alarm company (if applicable) to inform them of their absence and the presence of APS at the home. Client must advise APS of any difficulties previously encountered from neighbors, their children, or their pets in relation to Client's pets. Client must advise us of dates and times that relatives, friends, gardeners, pool persons, housekeepers, and other service people will be visiting the home. We require all non-APS persons entering your home to leave a note with their name, phone number, and time they visited.


• Reservations are made to plan sitter availability to clients. Therefore, clients returning home early will be required to pay for the reserved amount of time scheduled, including travel time. (Please see our cancellation charge schedule.)


• A signed Service Request must be provided to APS before service is provided for any period. Established regular/daily Clients may be exempted from this requirement at APS’ discretion.


• All unscheduled/unplanned fees (emergency pet taxi, last-minute potty breaks, extra visits, etc.) must be paid within 3 days of Client’s return or end of service.


• Cancellation charge schedule: Holidays—payment in full is charged (no refunds); 0-72 hours prior to any non-holiday service—payment in full is charged (no refunds); 3-7 days prior to service—20% of service total is due (equals an 80% refund); 8 days prior to service or more—refund in full minus $10 cancellation fee.


• Services not paid in advance may be cancelled by APS without notice, including prior to or during service period.


• Payment/deposit in full is due at time of reservation.* Reservations for holidays are not held until payment in full is received by APS or special arrangements are agreed upon by both parties in writing. A $25 late payment charge will be assessed to service that is not paid in advance. Reservations will be held for existing clients with good payment history. However, if reservation is cancelled, our cancellation policy applies and client WILL be responsible for payment. *Established Clients in good standing may choose to leave a check for the sitter to pick up on the first visit--for NON-HOLIDAY visits ONLY. All Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year holiday reservations must be paid within one week of making reservation. We will not hold a holiday reservation without payment in full.


• Last-minute booking fee—flat rate of $10 per reservation. Holiday fee—flat rate of $10 per holiday (see holidays listed on our rates page).


• Forms of payment accepted: cash, check, or credit cards (through PayPal or our own processing). Please make checks payable to: LESLIE RAY or ANGEL PET SITTERS. PayPal and credit card payments will incur a 3% billing fee.


• In the event of a returned check, Client must pay the entire invoice and all applicable fees (bank fees charged to our account) promptly via cash only. Additionally, there is a $25 fee for returned checks. (Because we have had our share of non-paying clients, APS WILL file a claim in court against any client who does not pay.)


• If Client has a complaint about our service, they must notify us within 24 hours of their return or end of service. Failure to file a complaint within this time frame will render APS harmless from any damages.


• We will photograph Client's pet(s) for identification purposes, and may use the photo(s) in our published advertising and/or website. If Client disapproves, they must notify us within 48 hours of signing contract.



© 2010, Leslie K. Ray , Angel Pet Sitters—All Rights Reserved. No part of this form may be copied or used without written permission.