Frequently asked questions

Professional Dog Walking & Pet Sitting in Steamboat Springs, CO

1. How do I book dog walking or pet sitting services?

Getting started with Powder Paws is easy. We use professional pet care software called Time To Pet to keep everything organized and secure.

If you’re new, you’ll create an account, fill out your pet’s profile, and request services right through the app. Once approved, you can schedule recurring dog walks, adventure hikes, or in-home pet sitting visits in Steamboat Springs whenever you need!

We designed our booking process to be simple, transparent, and stress-free — because hiring a dog walker shouldn’t feel complicated.

2. What is your cancellation policy?

We completely understand that life in Steamboat can shift — weather rolls in, flights get delayed, plans change. At the same time, we reserve time specifically for your pets.

  • Dog walking cancellations require 24-hour notice.

  • Pet sitting cancellations within 48 hours of the start date require full payment.

  • 50% deposits are collected for pet sitting and become non-refundable 30 days before your service begins.

  • Services scheduled over holidays and peak dates are non-refundable.

We always encourage booking thoughtfully, especially during ski season and summer peak months when our schedule fills quickly.

3. What if I’m not sure when I’ll return from my trip?

We recommend booking only the dates you’re certain about. If you end up staying longer, we’re happy to add visits if availability allows.

Once services begin, we can’t issue refunds for shortened trips or early returns.

4. How does payment work?

We require a card on file to confirm services.

  • Dog walking is billed biweekly.

  • Pet sitting requires a 50% deposit at request.

  • The remaining balance is due 48 hours before departure.

Invoices are sent through Time To Pet. We accept credit cards and offer a 3% discount for cash, check, or Zelle payments.

If payment isn’t received within 48 hours of the due date, the card on file will be charged automatically. Auto-pay is available for convenience.

We aim to keep billing simple, predictable, and professional.

Our staff does accept tips! Time to Pet allows an auto-tip option for convenience.

5. Do you offer discounts?

Yes! We offer a few different discount options:

  • 3% discount for clients who choose to pay via cash, check, or Zelle.

  • 10% off for teachers and first responders

  • Our Preferred Client Program offers a slew of benefits and saving opportunities for our most loyal dog walking and pet sitting clients in Steamboat Springs!

6. Are you insured and bonded?

Yes. Powder Paws is fully insured and bonded through Pet Sitters Associates.

Your home, your pets, and our team are protected. We believe professional dog walking and pet sitting should always include accountability and peace of mind.

7. How will I know my dog was walked?

We love this question… communication is everything to us!

During each walk or visit, you’ll receive:

  • Photos & videos (because we know you miss them)

  • GPS tracking of the walk or visit

  • A detailed visit report

  • Notes about potty breaks, behavior, and overall mood

Our goal is for you to feel connected and confident, whether you’re at work, skiing, or out of town.

8. What happens if there’s an emergency?

Your pet’s safety is our highest priority.

If something unexpected happens:

  1. We contact you immediately.

  2. If veterinary care is needed, we transport your pet to their primary vet or the nearest available clinic.

  3. We consult you on all decisions unless immediate, life-saving care is required.

We require emergency contacts and vet information before services begin so we’re always prepared.

9. What areas do you serve?

We proudly provide dog walking and in-home pet sitting in Steamboat Springs and surrounding areas.

If you’re unsure whether you fall within our service range, just reach out. We’re happy to confirm.

We specialize in serving local residents, seasonal homeowners, and visitors enjoying Steamboat with their pets.

10. What happens before our first service?

Every new client begins with a Meet & Greet.

This gives us time to:

  • Learn your dog’s personality and routine

  • Review feeding instructions and medications

  • Go over home access and safety details

  • Make sure everyone feels comfortable

We don’t believe in “just showing up.” Trust is built before the leash ever clips on.

Before your first service, please complete your profile in Time To Pet so we have all health and care information on file.

11. How do I communicate with you?

You can expect to receive all photos and updates via text from our company number 970.439.1703. We use Time To Pet for all scheduling, admin messaging, invoicing, and GPS reports.

For urgent matters, you can always call or text us directly.

Clear communication is part of professional pet care.

12. What if I have multiple pets?

More the merrier!! We love multi-pet households.

During onboarding, we’ll gather detailed information about each pet so we can tailor care appropriately. Additional fees apply for multiple dogs on walks, and a 20% gratuity is automatically added for pet sitting households with more than five pets due to the additional time and care required.

Every pet deserves individual attention, even in a busy household.

13. How do you handle aggressive or reactive dogs?

Safety always comes first.

If we observe behavioral concerns or aggression:

  • We’ll communicate with you immediately.

  • We may recommend private walks instead of group outings.

  • In some cases, professional training may be required before continuing services.

Fortunately, we are partnered with Steamboat’s best dog trainers so you will actually see a difference in your dog! We prioritize thoughtful dog matching and balanced handling techniques. Our goal is safe, structured, enriching experiences — not chaotic or overstimulating walks.

Looking for a trusted dog walker in Steamboat Springs?

At Powder Paws, we combine mountain adventure with professional structure. Whether your dog needs a mid-day walk, a trail hike, or in-home pet sitting while you travel, we show up reliably, communicate clearly, and care deeply.

Your pets aren’t just appointments on a calendar.
They’re part of our community.