How much is the service?

Contact 4 Legs & a Tail for a quote based on the number, type of pet, and requirements of your animals, and your home's location.
A 20% deposit is payable in advance to confirm the booking, with an invoice provided.
Sitters are self-employed, so please pay the remaining 80% promptly at the end of the booking.
Pop-in care visits start from £15. Contact us for a bespoke quote based on your needs.

Additional Expenses:

You may need to cover the sitter’s travel expenses if you are outside a 7-mile radius from DN22 0 (40p per mile). We will provide an estimate when discussing your booking.
Any costs incurred by the sitter for duties (e.g., animal feed, bedding, cleaning products).
If a sitter stays longer than the prearranged care visit slots, an additional hourly rate of £14 per hour applies, invoiced accordingly.

How do I pay?

We accept BACS or cash. Alternatively, you can pay by card at our on-site shop during trading hours.

Who are the 4 Legs & a Tail sitters?

Our sitters range in age from 21 to over 60 and share a love of animals, integrity, and experience in animal care. Many work full-time with animals.
Sitters are self-employed and not obligated to accept work, ensuring a dedicated and willing caregiver for your home and animals.

Can a sitter do additional jobs while I am away?

Many sitters can undertake extra tasks. Please clear these tasks with us to ensure appropriateness and fair compensation. This must be arranged before your departure.

Are there any insurance issues?

Clients should have normal house and contents insurance. Valuables should be insured against accidental damage.
We have indemnity insurance covering proven damage caused by our or our sitters’ negligence.
Check your policy to ensure it remains valid if away for an extended period, and that having a house sitter maintains full coverage.

What do I do if I feel the sitter is unsuitable?

We carefully match sitters to your requirements. If you are unhappy, please let us know, and we will find a replacement. We want you to be confident in the person caring for your home and animals.

What happens in an emergency?

Before confirming a booking, we will send you forms to gather relevant information, such as vets contact details, ensuring a smooth sit. A consultation visit will be arranged to review the forms and obtain emergency contacts. In an emergency, the sitter will act promptly and inform you and/or your emergency contact.

What if the sitter has to leave?

If a sitter must leave due to sickness, family emergency, or injury, they can contact us 24/7. We will immediately find a replacement, ensuring your home and animals are not left unattended.

What if I am delayed on my return?

Inform us as soon as possible if you are delayed so we can arrange temporary cover. We will not leave your home and animals unattended, we will keep to daily requirements as per the original schedule until your return.

Is my data secure?

We only hold your information for core business purposes and never share it with third parties. You have the right to access any information held on you. Our computer systems are protected by up-to-date firewall technology.