Hounds & Home

Serves Greensboro, NC

35244

Hired 32 times

1 employee

24 years in business

$20/walk

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Cash and Check.

Next Service

Credentials

Background Check

Joan Ribarchik
Completed on 6/17/2021

Introduction

I graduated from Northwestern University and worked in the corporate environment for 20 years. After both my children entered school, I wanted a career which combined my love for the outdoors with my passion for animals. That is how I chose pet sitting and pet care as my career of choice. Over the years, my business has developed from part time job to a full time Professional Pet Care Provider career. I am Red Cross Certified in Dog/Cat CPR and Pet Emergency First Aid. I am also insured through Pet Sitters Associates LLC. My love for animals is simply a huge part of who I am. I also do volunteer work & foster for Animal Rescue & Foster of Greensboro, NC. Rest assured... I am also insured through the Pet Sitter Association. As you can see, I am also background checked through Thumbtack. You need someone who is mature, responsible and flexible. I work with my customer's and their pet's needs. I also provide daily status reports via text with photos of your pet(s). I give each animal the specialized love and attention as if they were my own. I have over 20+ years of experience in the pet sitting, equestrian care and dog walking business. I love working with pets of all sizes, types and temperament. My best days are getting out, getting physical exercise, caring for other people's pet families and making sure their pets get the ultimate in loving care when my customers can't be home. **At time of Meet & Greet” proof of current vaccination is required. If your pets are not vaccinated- I shall not take the position** Please note: There is an additional charge for major Holidays.

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

I am new to the area- part of my fee is dependent on travel and distance to each job. Please, understand my pricing is flexible until I get to know the Greensboro area better and can better estimate travel expenses to and from each location to where I am providing services- thank you!

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

After a customer has expressed an interest in my services, a personal face to face meeting with them and their pets is a must. It ensures that there is a chemistry between their little (or big) loved ones and myself which they get to see. This is huge when you are entrusting the care of your pets with someone you have never met before. I have a check list of questions which we go over so I am informed about their requirements and ask if there are any additional items they need or concerns they may have. I let them know that we will be in daily contact- wether it's a simple dog walking job or an extended vacation.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

After graduating from Northwestern, I had worked in a corporate environment for over 17 years. I was fortunate enough to be able to become a stay at home mom after having our second child. Then when my children were both in school, I knew I wanted to return to work but wanted a more flexible and active career choice. I have always loved animals and being outdoors so I knew pet sitting and dog walking would be a career path which would be a perfect fit for my future. I began my pet sitting, equestrian care and house sitting service in 2001 and have never doubted this was the perfect career choice for me! I’ve recently relocated to Greensboro and look forward to the experience of discovering North Carolina!

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

Make sure both you and your pet have a connection with your pet care provider. It will mean peace of mind for you and less stress and anxiety for your fur family- whether it’s a simple daily walk or while you are out of town!