Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between a drop-in and boarding?
Drop-ins are visits where I pop in to care for your pet at your home while you’re away. Boarding involves your pet staying overnight in someone else’s home, which I don’t currently offer.
Do you offer boarding?
No, due to contract agreements where I live, I only provide visits and walks - no day care or overnight boarding can take place in my home.
Why do you charge the same price for solo and group walks?
Whether your dog walks solo or with a group, they receive the same level of care, attention, and time. Group walks offer great socialisation opportunities, while solo walks provide a more personalised, one-on-one experience - both are equally valuable. Some dogs simply do better on their own, and I don’t want cost to be a barrier to choosing what’s best for your dog. If they need a solo walk, you won’t pay more just because it’s one-on-one.
Why do you charge the same for drop-ins and walks?
My pricing is based on the time I spend caring for your pet, not the specific activity. Whether it’s a walk or a drop-in visit, your pet receives the same level of dedicated attention and care. I want you to choose the option that best suits your pet’s needs without worrying about cost differences. If your pet needs a walk instead of a drop-in, I won’t charge more just because it involves walking - it's all about what’s best for them.
Why choose 2 x 15 minute drop-ins instead of 1 x 30 minute drop-in, or 2 x 30 minute drop-ins instead of 1 x 1 hour drop-in?
To better accommodate all our furry friends and their busy families, we offer a flexible option of two 15 minute drop-ins per day or two 30 minute drop-ins per day. This allows your pet to get extra attention, playtime or potty breaks while helping us spread out bookings more evenly throughout the day.
Choosing this option can:
- Provide your pet with more regular check-ins and company.
- Help avoid the busy middle-of-the-day slot when many clients request visits.
- Making scheduling easier and more convenient for everyone.
If you're interested in two shorter visits instead of one longer one, just let us know when booking - we're happy to tailor visits to what works best for you and your pet!
Why is there an extra charge for additional pets in the same household?
Each additional pet requires extra time, attention, and responsibility to ensure everyone’s safety and happiness.
If I have 20 goldfish, will you charge an additional fee for each fish?
No, the additional pet fee applies only to dogs. Smaller pets - such as fish, rabbits, cats, rodents and birds - are charged as one extra charge, not per individual. So, whether you have one or several other smaller pets, the fee applies once only.
Can we skip the meet and greet?
No - the meet and greet is essential to ensure your pet is comfortable with me and to discuss their needs in person before care begins.
I have a puppy who is going through a biting stage. Will you take them on?
Yes, that’s completely normal, and I’m happy to work with puppies through all their developmental stages.
Why don’t you cater for larger dog breeds?
I focus on toy, small, and medium-sized dogs because I feel most confident and comfortable caring for them. Larger breeds often have different exercise and handling needs, and I want to make sure I provide the safest and most attentive care possible. That said, I’m happy to consider individual cases, especially if I’ve known the dog since they were a puppy.
Your photos show you have a Giant Schnauzer client but you said you only cater for small and medium dogs?
That client is a puppy I’ve known since they were young, which allows me to provide safe, appropriate care.
Will you train my dog?
I’m not a professional dog trainer and don’t have formal qualifications in training. However, as a dog owner myself, I’m happy to reinforce any training you’ve already started with your puppy or try teaching new commands under your guidance. My focus is on providing loving care and support rather than formal training.
What if my dog gets muddy on a walk?
No worries - I’ve got a Mud Daddy and freshly laundered dog towels in the van ready to freshen them up! I’ll make sure your pup is clean and comfortable before heading home.
What if it rains?
If your dog is happy to go out in the rain, I’ll take them for their walk as usual. If they’d rather stay dry, I can do a drop-in visit instead to keep them company and give them some attention indoors.
What if the weather is too hot, too cold or otherwise unsafe for a walk?
If the weather is too hot, dangerous, or otherwise unsuitable for a walk, I’ll do a drop-in visit instead to keep your pet comfortable and safe indoors.
I accidentally locked myself out and you have our spare key. What should I do?
Don’t worry! Just get in touch - we’ve all been there. I’ll do my best to help, even if it can’t be immediate.
I want to use your services but don’t want my pets on social media.
That’s totally fine! All clients sign a social media consent form. No photos or posts will be shared without your permission. Your comfort and your pet’s wellbeing always come first.
Why do you not name any pets and refer to them as 'they'?
We avoid sharing pet names or gendered pronouns to help protect the privacy and safety of the animals and their owners. Sadly, pet theft and impersonation are real concerns - especially when animals are identifiable by name or gender. Using neutral language like "they" helps reduce risk while still sharing meaningful stories.
I have a keycode entry; why do you still need a physical key?
A physical key is needed as a backup in case of power failure or device malfunction, to ensure I can always access your home safely.
Do you let dogs off lead?
Only if it is safe to do so and if the owner is happy with this.
What happens if you get sick and can’t visit my pet?
If possible, I’ll arrange for another Kay-Nine team member to step in. You’ll receive at least 24 hours’ notice and a refund if no replacement is available. In an emergency, I’ll communicate with you as soon as possible to make alternative arrangements.
How do I book a service?
Booking is easy! Just get in touch via the enquiry form or contact page with your pet’s details and preferred dates. I’ll respond quickly to discuss your needs and confirm availability.
Are you insured and certified?
Yes! Kay-Nine is fully insured, DBS checked, and I’ve completed canine and pet first aid training. I’m also currently working toward a certification in Dog Walking & Pet Sitting through the British College of Canine Studies.
What areas do you cover?
I provide services within Woodbridge and the surrounding areas. For locations further away, I’m happy to consider your request - please note that an additional charge of 75p per mile will apply to cover fuel and travel expenses.
Do you offer holiday or last-minute bookings?
I do my best to accommodate holiday and last-minute requests depending on availability. It’s always best to book as early as possible to secure your spot.
What will you do if my pet has a medical emergency?
I’m trained in canine and pet first aid, and carry a fully stocked travel-sized pet first aid kit with me on every walk and visit, plus a larger comprehensive kit in the van. If your pet experiences a medical emergency or injury while in my care, I will quickly assess the situation and provide first aid within my training and contact an emergency vet if necessary.
I will contact you immediately to inform you of the situation and discuss next steps. With your consent, I will take your pet to the nearest veterinary clinic for professional care. Your pet’s safety and well-being are my highest priority at all times.
Can you administer medication to my pet?
I’m happy to give oral medications (like pills) with clear instructions and owner consent. However, I do not administer injections, eye drops, or ear drops, as I am not formally trained to do so. Your pet’s safety is my priority, and I always follow your directions carefully.
What are your operating hours?
Monday - Sunday, 06:00 - 23:00. Overnight stays are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Do you offer any grooming services?
While I don’t offer trimming services like nail clipping or haircuts, I’m happy to brush your dog and give them a bath during pet sitting or longer drop-in visits (at least 45 minutes), if required, using your own bath and your dog’s own shampoo and grooming brushes.