Frequently Asked Questions

• I'm interested - how do we get started? The first step is to schedule an in-home meeting so you, your pets, and I can meet one another, discuss services, and fill out some paperwork - a few waivers and some general information about your pets - and set up a service schedule.
• How many dogs do you bring along at once? Unless you specifically request or approve otherwise, or if you have more than one dog, RainDog only walks one dog at a time. This ensures that your pet gets the safest, most individualized, interactive and fun outings possible.
• Where do you take dogs on hikes? Hikes take place on trails (where dogs are permitted) along Hwy 2 or I-90. Hikes are chosen based on your dog's physical fitness. Off-leash hikes are available for well-behaved dogs that demonstrate a reliable recall.
• Can I come along? Absolutely! You are more than welcome to accompany your pet on any RainDog outing, with or without notice. If travel is required and passenger space is limited, you may be asked to provide your own transportation.
• Do you go to dog parks? For safety's sake, RainDog does not offer visits to off-leash dog parks. While dog parks are great fun for many dogs most of the time, the possibility of unknown animals inflicting either physical or psychological damage onto your pet is just too great. Instead, I work hard to make every private outing just as fun - if not more so - for your dog through the use of toys, treats, and interactive play and exploration.
• Do you train dogs? RainDog does not offer obedience training. Over the course of each visit, however, I do positively reinforce desired behavior using treats and play. Feel free to let me know if there is a specific command you would like me to reinforce or a bad habit you are trying to eliminate so that I can remain consistent with any training you are practicing on your own. Feel free to contact me for referrals to qualified, local trainers and behaviorists.
• Do you accept puppies? Yes, on a case by case basis depending on age. We can work together to tailor services to your pup's needs as she matures.
• Do you accept aggressive dogs? Depending on the nature and severity of the behavior, I do accept most dogs that have shown aggression in the past or that are currently working through their "issues." Dog to dog aggression is managed fairly easily in most cases. Note: managing aggressive behavior in dogs so that it does not result in injury to people or other dogs is very different from treating/rehabilitating an aggressive animal. Contact me for referrals to local trainers and behaviorists if you are concerned about your dog. 
• What if my pet gets hurt? If your pet is injured or becomes seriously sick, RainDog follows the instructions that you provide at the introductory meeting when you set up service. Every effort will be made to contact you should your pet need veterinary attention. If a life-threatening emergency occurs, your pet will be taken immediately to the closest veterinarian or emergency facility for treatment, and you or your emergency contact will be notified as soon as possible.
• Who will be taking care of my pets? RainDog is wholly operated by its owner, Aaryn Peterson - the only person who will care for your animals.
• Are you licensed and insured? Yes. RainDog is licensed and is fully insured through Mourer-Foster, Inc. Proof of insurance and licensing is available upon request.
• How do you handle keys? New clients provide a set of house keys at the time of service setup or at another scheduled time before the first service visit. Keys are labeled by number - never by your pet's name, your address, or any other identifying information - and stored in a safe.
• When is payment due? RainDog bills for services upfront on a weekly basis by default. A monthly prepay option is also available. Payment is due at or before the time of service unless other arrangements have been made beforehand, and can be left at a predetermined location within your home (cash or check) or may be sent by mail (checks only).
• Is there an extra fee for you to feed or medicate my pet? There is no extra charge if you'd like RainDog to feed, water or medicate your pet during the regular course of a scheduled activity. Injections and subcutaneous fluid administration are not available at this time.
• What if I have to cancel? For a detailed explanation of cancellation policies, please see the Prices & Policies.
• I'd like a job as a dog walker and pet sitter - can I work for you? Currently, RainDog is totally owner-operated and is not looking for employees.