Pet Care Protocols

Updated: August 3, 2024

Welcome to the Pet Sitting 4 Comfort LLC Protocols page. As a family-owned and operated business, Steve and Hong are committed to providing exceptional and safe care for your pets. Here, you will find a summary of our protocols designed to handle various situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of your pets.

Health Concerns Protocols
Purpose: To ensure the highest standard of care for pets with specific health concerns by implementing detailed protocols and regular assessments.

General Health Assessment Protocol

Head-to-Tail Assessment Checklist:

Ears: Check for odor, redness, discharge, or signs of infection.
Eyes: Look for clarity, discharge, redness, or irritation.
Mouth: Inspect teeth and gums for tartar, redness, or bad breath.
Skin & Coat: Check for dryness, flakiness, bald spots, or parasites.
Paws & Nails: Ensure paws are clean, and nails are trimmed.
Behavior: Note any changes in energy levels, appetite, or temperament.

Specific Health Concerns Protocols

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Signs to Monitor:

Increased thirst and urination
Weight loss and decreased appetite
Vomiting and lethargy

Care Protocol:

Ensure constant access to fresh water.
Administer prescribed medications and subcutaneous fluids as directed.
Monitor litter box usage and note urine output.
Provide renal diet food if prescribed by the vet.
Regularly check for signs of dehydration and general weakness.

Cystitis/Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Signs to Monitor:

Frequent urination or straining
Blood in urine
Excessive licking of the genital area
Strong or unusual urine odor

Care Protocol:

Ensure the litter box is clean and accessible.
Administer prescribed antibiotics or medications.
Monitor urination frequency and note any changes.
Maintain hydration by encouraging water intake.
Observe for signs of pain or discomfort during urination.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Signs to Monitor:

Chronic vomiting and diarrhea
Weight loss
Poor appetite

Care Protocol:

Feed a prescribed diet that is easy on the digestive system.
Administer prescribed medications and probiotics.
Monitor stool consistency and frequency.
Ensure the pet remains hydrated.
Note any signs of abdominal pain or discomfort.

Diabetes
Signs to Monitor:

Increased thirst and urination
Weight loss despite a good appetite
Lethargy and weakness

Care Protocol:

Administer insulin injections as prescribed.
Monitor blood glucose levels if instructed.
Feed a consistent, vet-recommended diet.
Ensure access to fresh water at all times.
Observe for signs of hypoglycemia (e.g., trembling, seizures).

Immunocompromised Pets (e.g., FIV)
Signs to Monitor:

Recurrent infections
Weight loss and poor coat condition
Chronic diarrhea or vomiting

Care Protocol:

Minimize stress and exposure to other animals.
Keep the living environment clean and sanitized.
Provide a high-quality diet and ensure hydration.
Administer any prescribed medications or supplements.
Regularly check for signs of infection or illness.

Emergency Protocol
Immediate Actions:

Assess the Situation: Determine the severity of the pet’s condition.
Contact the Vet: Call the veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately.
Inform the Client: Notify the pet owner about the situation and the steps being taken.
Transport Safely: If necessary, transport the pet to the nearest vet or emergency clinic promptly.
Documentation: Record all observations, actions taken, and communications with the vet and client.

Health Emergencies
Pet CPR and First Aid:

Pet CPR: We perform CPR if the pet is unresponsive and not breathing.
Rescue Breathing: We provide rescue breaths every 4-5 seconds.
Choking Management: We perform the Heimlich maneuver if the pet is choking. If we suspect choking or poisoning, we identify the source and contact a vet immediately.
Bleeding Management: We apply pressure, clean wounds, and bandage.
Assess Vitals: We regularly check pulse, breathing, and temperature.
Emergency Kit: We use a well-stocked first aid kit.
Poisoning: We identify the source and contact a vet immediately.
Heat and Cold Injuries: We cool the pet for heatstroke and warm for hypothermia.

Snake Bite Protocol:
Stay Calm: We keep the pet calm and immobile.
Identify the Snake: We note the snake's appearance if safe.
First Aid: We wash the bite area with water and keep it below heart level.
Seek Veterinary Care: We transport the pet to a vet immediately.

Insect Bites and Stings Protocol:
Remove Stinger: We gently remove the stinger if visible.
Apply Cold Pack: We reduce swelling with a cold pack.
Monitor for Allergic Reactions: We look for swelling, difficulty breathing, and hives.
Seek Veterinary Care: We seek immediate care if symptoms are severe.

Transport Emergencies
Emergency Pet Taxi Service Beyond 10 Miles:
We contact the preferred emergency hospital, transport, monitor, notify the owner, and provide a detailed report.

Emergency Pet Taxi Service Within Arlington, VA:
We contact the vet, transport, monitor, notify the owner, and provide a detailed report.

Emergency Pet Taxi Service Including Wait Time:
We contact the vet, transport, wait during treatment, notify the owner, and provide a detailed report.

Behavioral and Environmental Emergencies
Handling Anxious Pets:
We create a calm environment, use gradual introduction, positive reinforcement, short sessions, and provide a detailed report.

Inclement Weather Procedures:
We inform clients, prioritize safety, use backup contacts, adjust visit times, and provide a detailed report.

Extreme Heat Protocol:
We limit exercise, provide shade and water, monitor for overheating, and cool the pet down if necessary.

Extreme Cold Protocol:
We limit outdoor time, use protective gear, monitor for hypothermia, and warm the pet gradually if necessary.
Safety and Security Emergencies

Power Outage Protocol:
We ensure pet safety, use flashlights, notify the client, monitor pets, and provide a detailed report.

Fire Alarm Protocol:
We evacuate pets, contact authorities, notify the client, ensure safety, and provide a detailed report.

Gas or CO2 Leakage Protocol:
We evacuate immediately, contact authorities, notify the client, ensure safety, and provide a detailed report.

Home Security Breach Protocol:
We evacuate pets if necessary, contact authorities, secure the premises, notify the client, and provide a detailed report.

Lost Pet Protocol:
We immediately search, notify authorities, use social media, notify the client, and provide regular updates.

Interactions with Other Animals
Dog Bite or Dog Fight During a Walk:
We separate dogs safely, assess injuries, provide first aid, seek veterinary care, notify the client, and report the incident.

Destructive Behavior
Noticing Destructive Behavior (PSI, NAPPS, Fear Free, AAFP, APDT):

Observation: We identify and document any destructive behavior such as dogs biting items or cats destroying furniture.
Immediate Action: We redirect the pet’s behavior using toys or safe alternatives.
Notify Client: We inform the client of the behavior, including details of what was observed and any immediate actions taken.
Behavioral Modification: We use positive reinforcement and training techniques to discourage destructive behavior.
Environmental Enrichment: We provide enrichment activities such as toys, scratching posts, or interactive feeders to reduce boredom and stress.
Professional Consultation: We recommend consulting with a professional behaviorist or trainer if the behavior persists.
Follow-Up: We monitor the pet's behavior and provide regular updates to the client.

Additional Protocols for Cats

Regular Grooming: Perform routine grooming including nail trimming, dental care, and managing hairballs.
Behavior Monitoring: We watch for signs of stress or illness such as hiding, hissing, or changes in grooming habits.
Veterinary Visits: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations to ensure overall health.
Environmental Enrichment: Provide toys, scratching posts, and safe spaces to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors.

Managing Feline Behavior Issues:

Identify Triggers: We observe and identify what causes stress or undesirable behavior in cats.
Behavior Modification: We use positive reinforcement to encourage desirable behaviors.
Professional Consultation: Consult with a feline behaviorist for persistent issues.

Highly Anxious Cats Protocol

Managing Highly Anxious Cats (PSI, NAPPS, Fear Free, AAFP, APDT):

Observation: We identify signs of anxiety such as hiding, excessive grooming, or changes in eating and litter box habits.
Safe Spaces: Limit the places where the cat can hide to ensure their safety and make them easier to monitor. We provide cozy, secure areas like covered beds or boxes.
Monitor Essentials: We ensure the cat is eating, drinking, and using the litter box without overwhelming them by having to search the house. We place food, water, and the litter box in accessible, quiet areas.
Non-Intrusive Checks: If the cat is hiding, we do not force interaction. We observe from a distance to ensure they are safe and avoid disturbing the cat just for taking pictures.

Emergency Climate Control Protocol

Purpose: To ensure the safety and well-being of pets in our care in the event of a climate control failure (AC in summer or heater in winter) at the client's home

Scope: This protocol applies to Steve & Hong when caring for pets in homes where the climate control system has failed.

Procedure

Immediate Assessment

Upon arrival, assess the indoor temperature and comfort level of the pets.
Check for any signs of distress in the pets (e.g., panting, shivering, lethargy).
Notify the Client
Contact the client immediately to inform them of the climate control issue.
Discuss potential immediate actions the client can take, such as calling for emergency repair services.
Ensure Pet Safety

We follow these specific steps for either summer (AC failure) or winter (heater failure) scenarios as outlined below.

Summer (AC Failure) Protocol

Open windows and doors to promote airflow, if safe to do so.
Use any available fans to circulate air.
Provide fresh, cool water and encourage pets to drink.

Immediate Cooling Measures

Move pets to the coolest area of the house.
Use cool, damp towels on the pets' bodies to help lower their body temperature.
Set up cooling mats or ice packs (wrapped in a towel) for pets to lay on.

Relocation

If the temperature inside the house becomes dangerously high (above 85°F/29°C), arrange to temporarily relocate the pets to a cooler location (e.g., a friend's or neighbor's house with AC, a pet-friendly hotel, or our own home office, if available).
Ensure the client is informed and consents to the relocation.

Winter (Heater Failure) Protocol

Close windows and doors to retain heat.
Use any available space heaters, ensuring they are safe and out of pets’ reach.

Immediate Warming Measures

Move pets to the warmest area of the house.
Provide warm bedding and blankets for pets to snuggle in.
Dress pets in sweaters or coats, especially for those with thin fur or who are more susceptible to the cold.

Relocation

If the temperature inside the house drops below 60°F (15°C) and the situation cannot be quickly resolved, arrange to temporarily relocate the pets to a warmer location (e.g., a friend's or neighbor's house with heat, a pet-friendly hotel, or our own facility, if available).
Ensure the client is informed and consents to the relocation.

Preventive Measures:

Clients are encouraged to ensure their climate control systems are in good working order before leaving for extended periods. This includes scheduling any necessary maintenance or repairs to avoid potential failures.
Emergency Contacts: Clients should provide emergency contacts who live nearby and can assist in case of an emergency. This helps ensure pets are taken care of without delays if a climate control failure occurs.
Preparation for Visits: Clients should inform us of any recent issues with their AC or heating systems. This allows us to plan accordingly and ensure we can provide the best care possible for their pets without interruptions.

Documentation and Follow-Up

Document the Incident
Record the incident details, actions taken, and any communication with the client in the pet visit report.
Take photos or short videos (if necessary) to document the pet's condition and the environment.

Client Communication

Provide a detailed follow-up report to the client, including any recommendations for future prevention or preparedness.

Communication Protocols

Communication Guidelines: We have updated our office hours for non-urgent communications and scheduling phone or video chat appointments.

Office Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Monday to Sunday
Service Hours: 6:30 AM - 11:30 PM, Monday to Sunday

For urgent matters or emergencies during service hours, please continue to reach out through your Time to Pet account. This helps us prioritize urgent needs while ensuring non-urgent matters are handled efficiently during office hours.

Managing Frequent Client Check-Ins

As a family-owned and operated business, we understand and empathize with clients who are particularly concerned about their pets. We aim to provide comprehensive updates and reassurance while maintaining professionalism and efficiency in our services.

Detailed Visit Reports:

Each visit includes a comprehensive report detailing:

Arrival and departure times.
Tasks completed (feeding, walking, litter box cleaning, etc.).
Observations on pet behavior, appetite, and bowel movements.
Any unusual signs or changes in the pet's condition.
A thorough head-to-tail assessment when appropriate.

Real-Time Updates:

In addition to the detailed reports, we send real-time updates, including photos and short videos, to reassure clients that their pets are safe and well-cared for.

Personalized Communication:

We acknowledge and address specific concerns the client may have. For clients who frequently check in, we provide personalized updates that directly answer their common questions (e.g., "Yes, Fluffy ate all her food and had a normal bowel movement today").

Reassurance and Empathy:

We communicate with empathy, recognizing that their concerns stem from a place of love and care for their pets. Phrases like "We understand how much you care about Max, and we're keeping a close eye on him" help reassure clients.

Proactive Updates:

We proactively send updates before the client asks for them. This helps reduce their anxiety and shows that we are attentive to their needs.
Customized Checklists: We offer customized checklists that clients can fill out to specify their pet's needs and any specific points they want us to monitor. This ensures that we address their concerns in every visit.
Regular Follow-Ups: We follow up regularly, even between visits, to provide updates and reassure the client. This could be through a quick message or call summarizing the pet's overall status over the past few days.

Extra Notes Section:

We include an "Extra Notes" section in our reports for any additional observations or details that may be relevant but not necessarily part of the standard checklist. This helps address any nuanced concerns the client may have.

Availability for Questions:

We make ourselves available for any questions or concerns the client may have, offering a specific time for them to call or message if they need further reassurance.

Educational Resources:

We provide clients with resources and tips on managing pet anxiety and behavior, helping them feel more confident and informed about their pet's care.

By following this protocol, we aim to provide thorough, empathetic, and professional updates that address our clients' concerns, ensuring they feel confident and reassured about their pet's well-being while they are away.

​Pet Care Protocols

Pet Care Protocols