Hi, I'm Christina
… and I am the owner of Little Sidekick Pet Care. I have always gravitated toward animals, and they seem to love me too!
I was drawn to professional pet care after ending an almost 20-year career as a touring musician. I started out pet-sitting occasionally for a handful of neighbors, and grew the business exclusively from referrals.
I have a genuine love for all animals, an innate ability to understand and communicate with them, and years of experience working with animals with a wide range of temperaments and behaviors. I’m committed to understanding your pet’s unique personality, preferences, and routines, ensuring I can provide the very best care for them while you’re away.
Whether you’re on vacation or just need someone to check on your pet while you’re at work, I offer reliable, trustworthy, and compassionate care for your beloved companion.
I am beyond excited to begin offering Mobile Dog Gym services to my clients as well! Click here to learn more!
First time hiring a pet sitter or dog walker?
Here's what to expect!
1. Phone Consultation
This is where we learn the basics about your pet's needs and agree on a plan of care for them. We will ask a lot of questions about your pets habits, temperament, and routines, and give you the opportunity to ask us questions too.
2. Create Your Account
We'll get you setup with your own client account which will allow you to provide details about your pet, add your your emergency contacts and veterinarian information, request services, view and pay your invoice, and receive real-time updates from us at every visit, through our convenient mobile app.
3. Meet And Greet
We come to your home prior to your first scheduled service, to meet your pet and learn where food, etc is kept, and pick up a key if we need one for entry. This is when you'll familiarize us with where your pet sleeps, where we'll sleep if we're staying overnight, any areas where pets are off-limits, or anything else we need to know about the home environment.
First Time Using Mobile Dog Gym Services?
Most dogs will require a session or two to get accustomed to the treadmill. We offer an Introductory Session where we spend time slowly introducing your dog to the treadmill and building positive associations with it. You should be present for this first visit, as it is normal for a dog to feel a little unsure about the treadmill at first, and may need a little extra encouragement. Don’t worry! Sometimes we need to encourage and challenge our dogs to try new things, and once they get the hang of it, most dogs can really have a blast!
Here are the phases your dog will go through as they learn to use the treadmill.
1
CONDITIONING
Your dog needs time to learn and feel comfortable on the equipment and getting to know the staff. With so many different dog personalities, it is expected that in the beginning some will be unsure, skeptical, or just plain stubborn. Since each dog is different, the amount of time learning to be comfortable will vary.
2
COMFORT ZONE
Your dog now feels confident and is moving comfortably on the treadmill. Your dog controls the speed, they are walking and/or running on their own. Our staff is there to make sure your dog is moving safely and at a consistent speed.
3
ADVANCED
This is where we challenge your dog to do more. Interval training, incline, and resistance. Strength and endurance are what we are striving for, providing that mental and physical challenge.
General FAQ
For your convenience, here are answers to the most frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer you are looking for, please feel free to get in touch and we’ll be happy to answer any question you may have.
We are fully bonded and insured. As a registered client you’ll have the opportunity to view and download copies of our insurance policy for your records.
For new clients:
Please contact us so that we can set up a phone consultation. From there we’ll help you get onboarded with our client portal and mobile app.
For existing clients:
Requesting services is simple by downloading the Time to Pet Mobile app directly from the Apple App Store or from the Google Play Store, or by logging into your client portal from any browser.
Click here to learn how to request services using the mobile app.
Click here to learn how to request services using the client portal.
Requesting changes or cancelling your services is simple by downloading the Time to Pet Mobile app directly from the Apple App Store or from the Google Play Store, or by logging into your client portal from any browser. You should see a pencil icon next to each service you have scheduled. Simply click this, and then choose whether to cancel the service or request changes to it.
If you would like to cancel multiple services at once in bulk, you can select the Cancel Services check box, and then select the services you need to cancel by checking the box next to each service on the right.
We generally arrive right when scheduled, but given the nature of what we do, a bit of wiggle room is sometimes needed so that we can accommodate all of our clients.
We know how important keeping to a familiar schedule can be for your pet’s well-being while you are away, and make every effort to arrive within a 30-minute window of your scheduled service time.
Your dog will not be walked with any dogs from outside of your household unless previously agreed to.
We do offer pack walks at a discounted rate, if you have a nearby neighbor who would like their dogs to be walked at the same time as yours. Pack walks require prior consultation and evaluation of all dogs for temperament, social skills, and leash manners.
You can pay by cash or check by leaving it in an envelope somewhere in your home – just let us know where to look for it!
You can pay by debit or credit card by logging into the client portal or by using the mobile app, available from the Apple App Store or from the Google Play Store.
Just navigate to Invoices and then click on Make a Payment.
- Recurring Services* – during non-holiday times require a 24-hour notice. If cancelled less than 24 hours before start time, you will be charged 50% of total due.
- Out-of-Town Services – bookings are fully refundable if cancelled before 2 weeks of start date, and 50% refundable if cancelled before 1 week of start date.
- Holidays – Cancellations made less than 1 week from the start date will be charged 100% of total due.
*Recurring Services refer to regularly scheduled, ongoing visits, not for out-of-town travel. For example: you are booked every Tuesday at 9am.
Holidays include but are not limited to:
- Spring Break
- Easter Weekend
- Memorial Day weekend
- Fourth of July Week (July 1st – 5th)
- Labor Day Weekend
- Thanksgiving Week
- December 20th – January 4th
See our complete list of holidays here.
Inclement Weather Policy for Recurring Dog Walks
If the weather is not suitable for walking due to rain or excessive cold or heat, we will work with you to reschedule if possible, otherwise the service will be cancelled without charge to you.
We are dedicated to providing excellent care to your pet, but in the event they should become ill or injured while you’re away, we will take them to their own vet, or in the case of an emergency or after hours, the nearest vet available. You, or your emergency contact if we cannot reach you, will be notified before any action is taken, except if immediate action is required. We will stay with your pet until you or your emergency contact are reached and give us further instructions.
You can easily drop your sitter a message from the client portal or mobile app. Having all of our conversations within the app insures we have any important communications from you in one place, and since we receive a push notification on our mobile device whenever you send a message, we generally are very prompt to reply. We will also provide you with a number you can call or text in the event of an emergency.
Gratuities are graciously accepted and can be given directly to your walker or sitter, or you will be given the option to include a tip when you pay your invoice by credit or debit card.
Mobile Dog Gym FAQ
Here you’ll find information specific to our mobile dog gym services.
For new clients:
Please contact us before booking your first session. We’ll help you get set-up with our client portal and mobile app.
For existing clients:
Requesting services is simple by downloading the Time to Pet Mobile app directly from the Apple App Store or from the Google Play Store, or by logging into your client portal from any browser.
Click here to learn how to request services using the mobile app.
Click here to learn how to request services using the client portal.
You can also request services by email, or by phone or text: 512 956 6588
Requesting changes or cancelling your services is simple by downloading the Time to Pet Mobile app directly from the Apple App Store or from the Google Play Store, or by logging into your client portal from any browser. You should see a pencil icon next to each service you have scheduled. Simply click this, and then choose whether to cancel the service or request changes to it.
If you would like to cancel multiple services at once in bulk, you can select the Cancel Services check box, and then select the services you need to cancel by checking the box next to each service on the right.
We generally arrive right when scheduled, but given the nature of what we do, a bit of wiggle room is sometimes needed so that we can accommodate all of our clients.
We know how important keeping to a familiar schedule can be for your pet’s well-being while you are away, and make every effort to arrive within a 10-minute window of your scheduled service time.
If this is your dog’s first session, we will text you when we are on our way so that you can take your dog out to potty and get their harness on before we arrive. If we are running your dog while you are away from home, we will give your dog a chance to potty before we bring them to the van.
At the present time our van is equipped with a single treadmill. If you have more than one dog, you can purchase additional half hour sessions to run consecutively, and we will work with your dogs one at a time.
We do anticipate having an additional treadmill soon, and will be able to run two dogs concurrently.
Once or twice a week max, with 2-3 days recovery time in between.
Your dog will have a private 30-minute session.
Clear all physical activity with your veterinarian. Your dog must be between 10 and 150 pounds, at least 4-months old and be up to date on all vaccinations. Do not feed your dog within an hour of our arrival (feeding at least two hours before we arrive is best)
You should plan to contact us or book several days in advance; same day appointments can be hard to accommodate. Appointments are for 30-minutes. Please do not feed your dog less than an hour before your appointment (at least 2 hours before is even better!) Prior to your first session you will need to sign an electronic liability form. You will receive confirmation of your appointment the day prior and a text from us when we are on your way to your scheduled appointment. Make sure to provide your dog with a potty break prior to our arrival. If you have a harness that you prefer, please put it on, if not we will provide one for safety and comfort.
We require you to be present for your dog’s first appointment or two, until they are accustomed to us and to the van and treadmill. After that, we can exercise your dog while you are at work or out of the house.
Personalized attention on your dog to provide safety and encouragement. Our goal is to provide your dog with the best workout possible, while also having fun. We are there to monitor your dog’s safety and to customize each run for their needs. Your dog controls the speed of our self-propelled treadmills, and we will encourage your dogs to move; they do the work. Feel free to bring your dog’s favorite “squeak” toy. You are welcome to help or watch the entire time. We will stop your dog for water as needed. If your dog just wants to run, we will stop them at regular breaks to monitor their health and safety.
Personalized attention on your dog to provide safety and encouragement. Our goal is to provide your dog with the best workout possible, while also having fun. We are there to monitor your dog’s safety and to customize each run for their needs. Your dog controls the speed of our self-propelled treadmills, and we will encourage your dogs to move; they do the work. Feel free to bring your dog’s favorite “squeak” toy. You are welcome to help or watch the entire time. We will stop your dog for water as needed. If your dog just wants to run, we will stop them at regular breaks to monitor their health and safety.
Personalized attention on your dog to provide safety and encouragement. Our goal is to provide your dog with the best workout possible, while also having fun. We are there to monitor your dog’s safety and to customize each run for their needs. Your dog controls the speed of our self-propelled treadmills, and we will encourage your dogs to move; they do the work. Feel free to bring your dog’s favorite “squeak” toy. You are welcome to help or watch the entire time. We will stop your dog for water as needed. If your dog just wants to run, we will stop them at regular breaks to monitor their health and safety.
Personalized attention on your dog to provide safety and encouragement. Our goal is to provide your dog with the best workout possible, while also having fun. We are there to monitor your dog’s safety and to customize each run for their needs. Your dog controls the speed of our self-propelled treadmills, and we will encourage your dogs to move; they do the work. Feel free to bring your dog’s favorite “squeak” toy. You are welcome to help or watch the entire time. We will stop your dog for water as needed. If your dog just wants to run, we will stop them at regular breaks to monitor their health and safety.
Personalized attention on your dog to provide safety and encouragement. Our goal is to provide your dog with the best workout possible, while also having fun. We are there to monitor your dog’s safety and to customize each run for their needs. Your dog controls the speed of our self-propelled treadmills, and we will encourage your dogs to move; they do the work. Feel free to bring your dog’s favorite “squeak” toy. You are welcome to help or watch the entire time. We will stop your dog for water as needed. If your dog just wants to run, we will stop them at regular breaks to monitor their health and safety.
You can expect your dog to be tired. They may be stretched out panting on the floor for a good period of time after their session. You should wait until they are relaxed and calmed down prior to feeding. You dog may also have extra energy after their session, they just had a good dose of endorphins and like you and I during a workout, they break their wind at different intervals. A massage of their hind legs will help release lactic acid and prevent soreness. If you don’t have your next session scheduled, you can schedule the same way, if you have pre-purchased session call or email us to schedule your next appointment. You should expect a follow-up after your dog’s first session.
While each dog is different, it typically takes about 5-minutes for them to feel stable and be able to move on their own. Once your dog feels comfortable on the treadmill and their confidence grows, they begin to move better. Our treadmills have no motors, they are self-propelled by the dogs, and we are there to monitor them for their safety. As their confidence grows so does the speed that they move at. This is a fun, happy run for all! If you have any special notes about your dogs, please let us know so we can accommodate to the best of our ability.
For your first session, we will spend a little time allowing your dog to feel comfortable around your trainer, then getting into the van, and standing on a stopped treadmill. We may practice getting in and out of the van and onto/off the treadmill a couple of times before even allowing the treadmill to move under your dog’s feet. While we do not encourage feeding dogs prior to their workout, for this first session we may use small treats and toys to build a positive association with the trainer and the equipment.
Some dogs may be a little more fearful or intimidated by new things, and may be uncertain, skeptical, or downright scared of the treadmill at first. While we want to encourage our dogs to try new things, we don’t want to force them and create an adverse association with treadmill training. Don’t feel discouraged if your dog isn’t immediately running on a treadmill the way you see in some videos! There is a learning curve to using the treadmill; some dogs get it right away and others take a little more time getting comfortable with it.
We do require you to be present for at least the first session. Depending on how comfortable your dog is with the treadmill during that first session, we may not require you to be present at subsequent sessions.
For sessions when you will not be home, we are happy to give your dog a potty break before we begin our session, but please understand that sessions are 30-minutes from the time we arrive.
Payment is due on the date of your session.
You can pay by cash or check in person or by leaving it for us if you won’t be home – just let us know where to look for it!
You can pay by debit or credit card by logging into the client portal or by using the mobile app, available from the Apple App Store or from the Google Play Store.
Just navigate to Invoices and then click on Make a Payment.
Please note that the following cancellation policy refers specifically to Mobile Dog Gym sessions. If you are also booked for pet-sitting services, please refer to the cancellation policy in the section above.
Cancellations less than 24 hours before the appointment will be charged $25. No-call or no-shows will be charged full price.
Sessions booked during a holiday require 72-hour cancellation or will be billed at full price.
Holidays include but are not limited to:
- Spring Break
- Easter Weekend
- Memorial Day weekend
- Fourth of July Week (July 1st – 5th)
- Labor Day Weekend
- Thanksgiving Week
- December 20th – January 4th
See our complete list of holidays here.
You can easily drop your trainer a message from the client portal or mobile app. Having all of our conversations within the app insures we have any important communications from you in one place, and since we receive a push notification on our mobile device whenever you send a message, we generally are very prompt to reply. We will also provide you with a number you can call or text in the event of an emergency.
Gratuities are graciously accepted and can be given directly to your walker or sitter, or you will be given the option to include a tip when you pay your invoice by credit or debit card.