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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about in-home pet sitting with Lacy, from getting started to what happens while you're away.
Serving North Stafford, South Stafford, Stafford, Fredericksburg & Dumfries, VA
Getting Started
Is this boarding? Will my pet be dropped off somewhere?
No — this is the opposite of boarding. Stay With Lacy is in-home pet sitting, which means Lacy comes to YOUR home. Your pet never leaves. No kennel, no cage, no unfamiliar building full of strange animals. Your pet sleeps in their own bed, eats from their own bowl, and follows their own routine — with Lacy right there with them. If you've heard the term "pet sitting" and pictured a kennel, this is completely different.
How do I get started with Stay With Lacy Pet Sitting?
Getting started is easy! New clients begin by creating a free account on our Time To Pet portal, which you can access from the Contact page. Once you complete your pet profile and intake information, you'll receive approval and can then schedule your required Meet & Greet. After the Meet & Greet, you're all set to book overnight stays, drop-in visits, and more — all through the Time To Pet app.
Why is a Meet & Greet required?
The Meet & Greet is how Lacy ensures every pet and family gets truly personalized care from day one. It gives your pet a chance to meet Lacy in their own home, on their own terms — no kennel stress, no unfamiliar smells. Lacy uses this visit to learn your pet's routine, medications, feeding schedule, and personality, as well as handle key pickup and home access logistics. It's also your chance to ask anything. The Meet & Greet is $55 and required for all new clients.
What actually happens during the Meet & Greet?
The Meet & Greet is a 30–45 minute visit at your home. Lacy gets down on the floor with your pet and lets them set the pace — some dogs warm up in five minutes, some take the full visit. While your pet is getting comfortable, you and Lacy go over everything: feeding schedule, medications, behavioral quirks, house rules, key pickup, and anything else that matters to you. By the end, your pet has met Lacy in their own space, and you've seen firsthand how she interacts with them. No pressure, no sales pitch — just a genuine introduction before any commitment is made.
How do existing clients book services?
Existing clients can log in to Time To Pet at any time to request overnight stays, drop-in visits, or add-on dog walking. All communication and scheduling happens through the app, making it simple and seamless.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking as early as possible is always recommended, especially for holidays, summer travel, and long weekends when availability fills quickly. For regular overnight stays and drop-ins, at least 1–2 weeks advance notice is ideal. Lacy will do her best to accommodate last-minute requests when available.
What areas do you serve?
Stay With Lacy serves North Stafford (primary area), South Stafford, Stafford, Fredericksburg, and Dumfries, VA. Drop-in visits are distance-based from ZIP 22554 (North Stafford): $30/visit within 10 miles, $45/visit for 11–20 miles, or quoted individually beyond 20 miles. Overnight stays and house sitting are available up to 30 miles from North Stafford.
Services & Pricing
How much does pet sitting cost?
Services are priced as follows: Overnight Stays are $150/night weekdays or $180/night weekends (Fri–Sun), $250/night holidays (including Dec 23–Jan 1); base rate covers up to 2 dogs and/or cats, $10 per additional dog or cat per night beyond 2. Drop-In Visits are $30/visit within 10 miles of ZIP 22554 · $45/visit for 11–20 miles · over 20 miles, quoted individually (15–30 minutes; base rate covers up to 2 dogs and/or cats; $10 per additional dog or cat per visit beyond 2). The Meet & Greet consultation is $55 and required once for all new clients. Dog walking is available as an add-on to any visit or overnight stay. Lacy accepts credit card, cash, and check.
What does an overnight stay include?
Overnight stays include Lacy arriving at your home around 9:00 PM and staying through 7:00 AM. Included are evening and morning feedings, potty breaks throughout the night, companionship and comfort for your pet, and a photo update so you always know how they're doing. Lacy also brings her own supplies and leaves your home exactly as she found it — that's the Invisible Guest Guarantee.
What does a drop-in visit include?
Drop-in visits are 15 to 30 minute in-home check-ins that include feeding and fresh water, a potty break or litter box cleaning, playtime and affection, and a photo update. The base rate covers up to 2 dogs and/or cats. For each additional dog or cat beyond 2, a $10 fee per visit applies. Exotic and farm animals are priced separately. Multiple daily visits are available for pets who need more frequent care. Visits happen within a time window, not at an exact time — Lacy cares for several pets each day, so services are scheduled in an arrival window (for example, 9–10 AM or 10 AM–12 PM). Windows can be adjusted to fit your schedule — just let us know if you'd like a visit earlier or later. You'll always get a photo update after every visit.
What time will you arrive for a visit?
Visits happen within a time window, not at an exact time. Lacy cares for several pets each day, so drop-in visits, walks, and other services are scheduled in an arrival window (for example, 9–10 AM or 10 AM–12 PM). Windows can be adjusted to fit your schedule — just let us know if you'd like a visit earlier or later. Each visit covers the care you booked, and time with your pet may run longer when extra needs come up. You'll always get a photo update after every visit.
Do you provide farm animal care?
Yes — farm animal care is an add-on service on top of all applicable overnight or drop-in fees, starting at an additional $100 per overnight booking. The final price depends on the level of care required, including the number of visits, responsibilities, cleanup, and feeding. Lacy does not care for horses. Farm animal care is not available for animals that are aggressive or difficult to handle, require round-the-clock medical attention, or require special training Lacy does not have. Contact Lacy directly to discuss your situation before booking.
Do you care for cats and other animals?
Yes! Lacy cares for dogs, cats, and a wide variety of other pets. If you have a unique animal or special care situation, reach out to discuss your pet's specific needs. The Meet & Greet is the perfect time to go over any special requirements.
How many drop-in visits does my dog need per day?
For a full day away, the minimum recommendation is 3 drop-in visits — morning, midday, and evening. That covers feeding times, potty breaks, and enough interaction to keep your dog comfortable. Some dogs do fine with 2 visits for shorter days; others benefit from 4. Lacy will discuss the right number with you during the Meet & Greet based on your dog's specific needs, energy level, and how long they'll be alone.
Can Lacy administer my pet's medication?
Yes. Medication administration is available as a $10 add-on per visit or overnight stay. Lacy reviews all medication instructions during the Meet & Greet — bring up any medications, supplements, or special health needs at that time so she can prepare. She keeps a detailed log of what was given, when, and any observations about how your pet responded. If something seems off, you'll hear from her immediately.
Is there a holiday fee?
Yes. Holiday overnight stays are $250 per night and holiday drop-in visits are $75 per visit. Weekend overnight rates (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) are $180 per night. When a holiday falls on a weekend, the holiday rate of $250 applies — not the weekend rate. The entire period from December 23 through January 1 is treated as a continuous holiday period at $250/night. Availability during holidays fills quickly — book as early as possible.
What is the cancellation policy for overnight stays?
Overnight stays require at least two weeks' notice for cancellation. Cancellations made less than two weeks before the scheduled start date will have a $75 late cancellation fee applied. Because Lacy holds your dates and turns away other clients to reserve them, advance notice protects that commitment. This is a professional policy, not a penalty — it's the same standard you'd expect from any licensed service provider.
During Care
Will my pet have to leave home?
Never. That's the entire philosophy behind Stay With Lacy. Your pet stays in their own home, in their own space, with their own routine. No kennels, no cages, no unfamiliar smells. Just Lacy, providing attentive care in the place your pet loves most.
How will I know how my pet is doing while I'm away?
Lacy provides photo updates during every service so you always know your pet is happy and well-cared-for. Updates are sent through the Time To Pet app, making it easy to check in from anywhere.
What happens during bad weather?
Lacy does not drive in snow or icy road conditions for the safety of herself and your pet. In the event of severe weather, she will contact you immediately to make alternative arrangements. This policy applies to all service types.
Can you water plants and bring in mail?
Yes, Lacy is happy to water plants, bring in mail, and handle other minor household tasks during her visits as part of the Invisible Guest Guarantee. Just let her know during the Meet & Greet what you'd like taken care of.
What happens in a pet emergency?
In the event of a medical emergency, Lacy contacts you immediately. With your authorization, she will transport your pet to the nearest veterinary clinic. Emergency care instructions — including your preferred vet and an emergency contact — are collected during the Meet & Greet so Lacy is always prepared.
Trust & Safety
Are you insured?
Yes. Stay With Lacy Pet Sitting, LLC is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. You can have complete peace of mind knowing your pet and home are protected by professional coverage during every service.
How do you handle keys and home access?
Key pickup and home access instructions are handled during the Meet & Greet. Lacy treats your home with complete discretion and respect. Your keys are handled securely and your home access information is kept strictly confidential.
Will anyone else be in my home besides Lacy?
No. Stay With Lacy is a two-person operation — Lacy and Stefan are the only people who will ever be in your home. Both are introduced at your Meet & Greet before any service begins, so your pet always knows exactly who is coming. There are no staff rotations, no strangers, and no surprises.
How long have you been caring for animals?
Lacy has 20 years of hands-on experience caring for animals, including dogs, cats, and a variety of household pets. Her approach is centered on patience, attentiveness, consistency, and treating every pet like family.
What is the Invisible Guest Guarantee?
The Invisible Guest Guarantee is Lacy's personal commitment that when she is in your home, your pet will be happy and your home will be exactly as you left it. She brings her own supplies, follows your household rules and routines to the letter, and leaves your home as tidy as she found it — every single time.
Are there any pets or situations you cannot accommodate?
Lacy is unable to care for animals with a history of aggression or severe food aggression. Medically fragile or end-of-life pets are considered on a case-by-case basis — reach out to discuss your pet's specific situation. Lacy does not care for horses. Farm animal care is not available for animals that are aggressive or difficult to handle, require round-the-clock medical attention, or require special training Lacy does not have. Lacy also does not drive in snow or icy road conditions.
More Questions Answered
During Care
Can I book Stay With Lacy for extended stays longer than a few nights?
Absolutely. We regularly provide extended-stay overnight care — we've stayed with pets for nine days or more while their families traveled. Extended stays mean your pet gets consistent, uninterrupted care from the same person the entire time. Lots of walks, cuddles, and routine. Don't let the fear of finding someone for a longer trip prevent you from going on that family vacation you've been planning.
Does Stay With Lacy offer early morning visits or care before normal business hours?
Yes! Our team member Stefan has been up since the early hours hanging out with pets. Whether it's an overnight stay or an early morning drop-in, we're there to make sure your dogs and cats get all the cuddles and attention they deserve before the sun is even fully up.
What if my pet is shy or nervous around new people?
We understand that not every pet is an instant best friend. We've worked with many nervous pets who were shy at first but came around once they realized we are safe humans. We are patient and calm, and we graciously give treats for brave behavior. During the Meet & Greet, we let your pet set the pace — some warm up in five minutes, some take the full visit. That's fine. We're not rushing anyone.
Do you keep a medication log during care?
Yes. Lacy keeps a log of what medication was given, what time, and any notes about how your pet responded. If something seems off — if they're more lethargic than usual, refusing the medication, or showing side effects — you'll hear from her immediately. Your pet's health protocol continues exactly as prescribed, with the same precision you'd give it yourself.
What exactly do you observe or watch for during visits beyond basic feeding and walking?
Lacy notices when your dog eats slower than usual. She notices when your cat isn't sitting in their favorite window spot. She notices when a senior pet's breathing sounds different, or when the water bowl hasn't gone down as much as it should. 20 years of experience have taught her what "normal" looks like for animals — and more importantly, what "not normal" looks like. When I see something that concerns me, I don't wait.
What kind of photo updates will I receive, and how often?
Every day Lacy is caring for your pet, you'll get photos through Time To Pet. Not staged, professional shots — real, candid moments. Your dog sprawled out on the couch. Your cat claiming the sunny spot on the windowsill. Your pup mid-zoomie in the backyard. She also communicates what's happening: ate all their dinner, seemed extra happy, was a little more shy than usual but warmed up by evening — you'll know.
What should I expect when I come home after a trip?
When clients walk through the door after a trip, here's what they find: a pet who is happy, fed, healthy, and ready for all the reunion snuggles. A home that looks exactly the way they left it — maybe even a little cleaner. A string of photo updates on their phone from every single day they were gone. Zero surprises. Zero stress. Zero drama.
What does Lacy actually do during the evening hours of an overnight stay?
The evening is where the magic happens. We go for a walk if that's part of the routine. We play. We hang out. Lacy sits on the couch and lets your dog curl up next to her, or dangles a toy for your cat. It looks like sitting on your kitchen floor at 10 PM because your dog is nervous and just needs someone close. It looks like hand-feeding your cat who's being picky to make sure they eat.
What does "your pet's routine is their security blanket" mean in practice?
Your pet's routine is everything that keeps them feeling safe — same dinner time, same walk schedule, same sleeping spot. In-home pet sitting preserves all of it. Dinner at 6? Done. Morning walk at 7? Done. Medications at specific times? Done. Your pet doesn't have to adjust to anything because nothing in their world has changed.
Can you care for multiple types of pets in the same household at once?
Absolutely. We've cared for households with dogs, cats, and chickens all at the same time — and everything went perfectly. We currently have six dogs, two cats, a ball python, three tarantulas, and a community of fish in our own home. We have hands-on experience managing multi-pet households where each animal has different needs and routines.
My pet has a medical condition that requires a specific feeding routine (like EPI). Can you handle that?
Absolutely. We have experience with pets that require specialized medical routines, including conditions like EPI (Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency) where food needs to be prepared with pancreatic enzymes ahead of mealtime. These routines are non-negotiable — timing matters, preparation steps matter, and consistency matters. During the Meet & Greet, we'll go over every detail of your pet's medical routine so there are zero surprises.
My dogs are crate-trained but I don't want them crated all day while I'm gone for a week. Can you help?
That's exactly the kind of situation we accommodate. Our goal is not to leave your pets crated for long periods. If you need us present for a larger portion of the day so your dogs can be out and about in their home, we can absolutely do that. We'll discuss the specifics during the Meet & Greet and build a schedule that keeps your dogs comfortable and out of their crates.
Trust & Safety
Will the same person care for my pet every time, or do you rotate staff?
When you book with Stay With Lacy, you get Lacy or Stefan — both of whom you will have met at your Meet & Greet before any service begins. Stefan provides drop-in visits and dog walking, using the same service area and rates as Lacy. Your pet always meets their caregiver in advance, so there are no surprises. That consistency is everything, especially for anxious pets or senior animals who don't handle change well.
What are the red flags I should watch for when choosing ANY pet sitter?
Red flags: They'll take any pet, no questions asked — no intake form, no Meet & Greet. They can't tell you specifically what they'll do during a visit. They seem more interested in your home than your pet. Green flags: requiring a Meet & Greet, asking detailed questions about medications and behavioral quirks, and having clear policies on cancellations and boundaries.
Why do you bring your own supplies during overnight stays?
Lacy calls it the "Invisible Guest" guarantee. She brings her own supplies — her own toiletries, her own towels, her own food. She's not raiding your fridge or leaving her stuff scattered around your bathroom. Your home is YOUR home; she's a guest, and she acts like one.
What if a last-minute sitter cancellation leaves me scrambling — can you help?
We've all seen the stories on local community chats — a pet owner is minutes away from leaving for vacation when their platform sitter cancels last minute. At Stay With Lacy, pet sitting is a professional commitment, not a casual gig. The business is built around reliability so you never have to deal with that. Don't risk your vacation or your pet's comfort on "maybe."
How is Stay With Lacy different from hiring a neighbor or a teenager to pet-sit?
Can your neighbor handle a pet seizure at 2 AM? Do they know what resource guarding looks like? Will they notice a subtle limp or a change in appetite? Professional pet sitting means licensing, bonding, insurance, a detailed intake process, emergency protocols, and years of experience recognizing when something is wrong. Loving animals is essential, but professional care matters too.
How do you ensure pet safety when you are not in the home?
Care, Custody & Control: While Lacy is in your home, your pet’s safety and happiness are her full focus. However, animals are naturally curious and can get into unexpected items when left unsupervised. Because we cannot control what happens when we are away from the home, setting your pet up for success begins before your trip. We kindly ask pet parents to clear floors, counters, and tables of any loose food, trash, medications, or chewable hazards. A tidy, pet-proofed home ensures your furry family member enjoys a safe, relaxing staycation and stays exactly how you left them.
What is your cleanup policy if my pet makes a significant mess?
Diet Consistency & Cleanup Policy: Even the best-behaved animals can experience digestive upset from stress or sudden diet changes. To set your pet up for success, please avoid introducing any new treats, table scraps, or food varieties right before you depart. Keeping their routine consistent protects their stomach while you are away. Normal, everyday pet mishaps are handled as part of routine care. A $150 cleanup fee applies per qualifying incident — when vomit or feces is spread on areas such as a crate, walls, or bedding, or when cleaning the pet is required, and the cleanup takes more than 10 minutes. If separate incidents require cleanup during separate visits on the same day, the fee applies per incident. Lacy will contact you before charging this fee. This policy is covered in the client agreement that all clients sign.
Getting Started
I feel guilty leaving my pet when I travel. Is that normal?
The guilt you feel about leaving your pet? It's normal. It means you're a good pet parent. But it shouldn't stop you from living your life. So many pet owners haven't taken a vacation in years because they can't bear the thought of leaving their dog or cat. You CAN travel and your pet CAN be perfectly fine. The key is having someone you trust. Book a Meet & Greet early, write everything down, and trust the process.
Why is the pet intake form so detailed?
Some people look at it and think, "Wow, this is a lot of questions." Good. It should be. The more Lacy knows, the better she can care for your pet. She asks about feeding details, allergies, medication dosage and timing, behavior triggers, storm anxiety, resource guarding, vet info, the closest emergency animal hospital, emergency contacts, alarm codes, thermostat preferences, which doors to lock, and where supplies are kept. If your pet has a seizure at 2 AM, I need to know what to do and who to call BEFORE it happens.
How far in advance should I book for holiday travel?
As far ahead as possible. Holiday dates fill up fast — we start booking months in advance and select dates disappear quickly. If in-home pet sitting is on your list for an upcoming trip, start with the Meet & Greet now so your pet has time to get comfortable before you need care.
Does Stefan also provide pet care, and what is his background?
Yes! Stefan is Lacy's husband and an official team member. He's been a dog person ever since he met his service dog, Honey (a pit mix). A specialty of his is traveling with dogs — he has extensive experience navigating the logistics of flying with pets and managing everything that comes with keeping them calm and comfortable in new environments.
I filled out the forms on Time To Pet but can't figure out how to schedule a Meet & Greet. What do I do?
This is a common hiccup! After creating your Time To Pet account and completing your pet profiles, you'll need to add a payment method before the system lets you submit a service request. Adding your card does NOT automatically charge you — it's required by the portal to enable scheduling. Once your payment method is saved, you'll be able to request your Meet & Greet directly in the portal. If you're still having trouble, message us on Facebook or email us and we can schedule it for you on our end.
Do I need a credit card on file to book, and will I be charged automatically?
You do need to add a payment method to your Time To Pet account before you can submit service requests, but it won't charge you automatically. The payment method is required by the portal to enable scheduling — your actual charges are processed after services are confirmed and completed.
Can I message you directly on Facebook to schedule instead of using the portal?
We love hearing from you on Facebook — it's a great way to ask questions, check availability, or get help with the portal. However, all official bookings and service requests go through our Time To Pet client portal. That's where your pet's profile, care instructions, schedule, and photo updates all live in one place. If you're having any trouble navigating the portal, just reach out here and we'll help you through it.
I'm outside your listed service area. Is it worth reaching out anyway?
It depends on where you are. Overnight stays and house sitting are available up to 30 miles from North Stafford (ZIP 22554). Drop-in visits are distance-based: $30/visit within 10 miles · $45/visit for 11–20 miles · over 20 miles, quoted individually. Reach out with your address and dates and we'll confirm whether your location is within range and what's possible.
Can my spouse or family member come to the Meet & Greet?
Absolutely. We're fine if a spouse or family member joins us, as long as they come to the Meet & Greet beforehand so your pets can meet everyone. The important thing is that everyone your pets will interact with has been introduced ahead of time. Safety and comfort always come first.
Services & Pricing
Can Stay With Lacy provide daily or weekly drop-in visits while I'm at work, not just when I'm traveling?
Yes! Whether you need someone to care for your pets while you take that dream vacation, or you need someone on a more consistent basis while you are working throughout the week, we're here for you. Drop-ins are perfect for long work days, day trips, or if you just want someone to give your pet some midday love while you're at the office.
How far do you travel for overnight stays?
Overnight stays and house sitting are available up to 30 miles from North Stafford (ZIP 22554). Drop-in visits are distance-based: $30/visit within 10 miles · $45/visit for 11–20 miles · over 20 miles, quoted individually. If you're unsure whether your address is within range, reach out with your location and we'll confirm before scheduling your Meet & Greet.
How does pricing work if I need multiple drop-in visits in a single day?
Each drop-in visit is priced by distance from ZIP 22554 (North Stafford): $30/visit within 10 miles · $45/visit for 11–20 miles · over 20 miles, quoted individually. You can book as many daily visits as your pet needs — just request them through Time To Pet and we'll build a schedule that works. Many clients find that 2–3 visits per day covers feeding times, potty breaks, and playtime perfectly.
What does pricing look like if I need the sitter present for more than just the overnight window — for example, most of the day?
Our standard overnight rate is $150 per night (approximately 9 PM–7 AM). If you need us present for a larger portion of the day — so your dogs aren't crated all day during a week-long trip, for example — we can absolutely accommodate that. Enhanced-presence stays may involve an additional charge depending on the specifics, but we work with each client individually. The best first step is to schedule a Meet & Greet so we can understand your pets' routine, discuss your needs in detail, and put together a plan that works.
Is the $150 overnight rate per pet or per household?
The $150 per night rate covers your household with up to 2 dogs and/or cats. Each additional dog or cat beyond 2 is $10 per night. For example, a household with 4 dogs would be $170 per night.
We have a very large number of pets (6+ dogs, plus other animals). Can Stay With Lacy handle our household?
Yes — and we get it, because we have six dogs of our own! We've worked with large, multi-species households including dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, fish, and chickens. Whether you have 4 dogs and 3 cats, or 9 dogs plus a variety of exotics, we're happy to discuss your needs. We may work with you on a custom quote depending on the size and complexity of your household.
What is your cancellation policy for overnight stays?
Overnight stays require at least two weeks' notice for cancellation. Cancellations made less than two weeks before the scheduled start date will have a $75 late cancellation fee applied.
Because Lacy holds your dates and turns away other clients to reserve them, advance notice protects that commitment. This is a professional policy, not a penalty — it's the same standard you'd expect from any licensed service provider.
Still have questions?
Lacy is happy to answer anything before you commit. Contact Stay With Lacy or call (571) 364-2105.
Or explore the blog: Why Hobbyist Pet Sitting Can Become a Nightmare · The Pet Parent Checklist
Ready to get started?
New clients: create your Time To Pet account, complete intake, and schedule your Meet & Greet ($55)
Already a client? Log in to Time To Pet to request services.