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In-Home Pet Care Safety Standards

Winston-Salem Dog Care provides structured in-home pet care services designed around secure home access, pet handling procedures, communication, and documentation standards.

Our in-home team follows operational procedures for home entry, leash handling, medication administration, visit documentation, and emergency escalation while pets remain in their home environment.

Staff Standards

  • Team members are background checked, insured, and are all W2 employees

  • Staff receive operational training in pet handling, home-entry procedures, and emergency response through shadowing, in-field training, and continuing education opportunities

  • Operational reviews are conducted regularly

  • CPR and emergency response training are incorporated into staff development

  • Visits are documented through our pet care software system

Home Entry & Security Procedures

  • Lockbox and home-entry procedures are followed during all visits

  • Staff verify homes are secured before leaving

  • Entry instructions, alarm procedures, and access notes are maintained securely

  • Operational procedures are reviewed regularly to maintain consistency and accountability

GPS Tracking & Visit Documentation

  • Visits are GPS tracked through our scheduling software

  • Clients receive time-stamped visit updates and report cards

  • Photos and visit summaries are provided

  • Our full-time office team monitors schedules, communication, and visit documentation throughout the day to address issues quickly when concerns arise

  • Team members document feeding, medications, potty breaks, walks, and behavioral observations during visits

Pet Handling & Walking Procedures

  • Dogs are walked using secure leash and harness procedures

  • Safety clips are used with harnesses to provide an additional point of connection and help prevent pets from slipping equipment

  • Additional safety equipment may be used for pets requiring additional handling support

  • Staff are trained to avoid unsafe interactions with animals or people during walks

  • Outdoor activity is adjusted based on weather conditions and pet-specific needs

  • Individual handling instructions are reviewed before services begin

  • Pets are assigned sitters based on their specific needs and our sitters experience

Feeding & Medication Procedures

  • Medication administration is documented on visit reports

  • Food, water, litter box, and care instructions are followed based on client notes

  • Concerns regarding appetite, mobility, illness, or behavior are escalated to management and pet parents when appropriate

Emergency Procedures

  • Emergency contacts and veterinary information are maintained for active clients

  • Staff are trained to contact management if safety or medical concerns arise

  • Escalation procedures are in place for emergencies involving pets, homes, inclement weather, or access issues

Operational Oversight

Winston-Salem Dog Care regularly reviews staffing procedures, training systems, communication standards, and operational processes as part of ongoing safety and operational improvement efforts