Become a Playmate today!

Ever look forward to being with that “special someone”? While you wait for the appointed time, do you notice how much energy builds up inside you – and how slooowly the time seems to pass? That’s the way your critters feel waiting for you to come home! Whether it’s at the end of your workday or your return from a trip, they are ready to LOVE, LOVE, LOVE you!! But, are YOU ready for them???

Shroder’s Playmates walkers and sitters break up the time, so your fur or feathery kid is relieved of boredom or loneliness while providing much needed affection, stimulation, and exercise. Through developing a close bond, we get to know when there are changes in your critter’s moods, behaviors and eating habits which can alert you to potential medical issues. We also add an extra layer of security by visiting your home throughout the day. But, mostly, we allow YOU to relax before responding to domestic demands, and enjoy YOURSELF when you are away on trips. Life is stressful enough without worrying about your “babies”, so let us handle it!

Though you may know many people willing to cut your hair, paint your nails or even fix your car, don’t you usually look for experts you can trust? You want to know they are trained, experienced and legitimate. You also want to know they are reliable, can handle unusual events, and will work with you to achieve the results you want.

Shroder’s Playmates is licensed, bonded and insured. We are also certified through both Pet Sitters International and DogTec Walking Academy and have training in companion animal behavior, pet CPR and First Aid, walk management, medicine administration, basic grooming, and fundamental stretching and physical therapy for senior or injured dogs. Our priority, both as a business and pet service professionals, is ensuring you and your pet’s happiness, safety, and well-being.

Unlike some popular apps which dispatch someone unknown to your home with a skill level that cannot be verified, Shroder’s Playmates conducts a complimentary “meet and greet” lasting approximately 30 minutes before scheduling the first service. The “meet and greet” allows you to connect with the staff member(s) who will be hanging out with your pup(s), and us to get an important understanding of your pup’s environment, leash skills and demeanor.

New clients are also required to complete a brief Service Agreement prior to the first date of service. Among other things, the Service Agreement confirms the status of your critter’s vaccination schedule (if applicable), details emergency contacts, and alerts us to allergies or other conditions.

In general, Shroder’s Playmates strives to provide the same walker(s) or sitter(s) to care for your fur and feathery kids each service. This maintains consistency of service as well as continuity of routine. However, there may be times when your dedicated walker or sitter is not available. We will advise you beforehand that we are using an alternative staff member. If a “meet and greet” is deemed necessary, we will work with you to schedule it in advance of the service.

Punctuality is a hallmark of the high quality service Shroder’s Playmates offers. While we strive to arrive at your target service time, we sometimes have to make scheduling adjustments. Therefore, we ask that you allow a window of 30 minutes prior and up to 60 minutes after your appointment time to accommodate for unforeseen traffic conditions, unscheduled walks, or emergency situations.

Like your mail carrier, Shroder’s Playmates’ walkers and sitters are there to provide loving care to your fur and feathery family members in various types of weather. That said, if weather conditions are unsafe (i.e. hail storm, extreme wind/cold/heat), adjustments in service will be made to ensure the welfare of both your pet and our staff. Changes may include extended indoor play and cuddle time, longer rest breaks on walks or later/earlier service in accordance with weather forecasts.

By speaking with you over the phone, we can be sure we are quoting the current price schedule and can also advise you of any discounts, bundles or other money saving opportunities. Further, we can be sure we are customizing information to your individual needs.

Payment is required prior to service and is (in most cases) non-refundable. Just as with human daycare, college tuition, or a ticket to a concert, you are paying primarily to reserve a space with a company whose service delivery is reputable. That said, despite the best preparation, life happens and sometimes schedules need to change. Therefore, service fees due to cancelation may be credited towards future services if the following conditions are met: 1) A full 48-hour notice is given by text to (510) 229-0694 prior to the start of a recurring services (vacation or out of town service packages requires 7 day advanced notice); 2) Or, an Act of God or governmental body (considered on a case by case basis); 3) Or, sudden pet illness or injury requiring veterinary intervention.

Working together as a team, we can keep service interruptions to a minimum which reduces stress for all concerned, maintains structure for pets and promotes optimal service delivery. Being able to confidently forecast income also allows us to pay staff adult wages which promotes a sustainable, healthy, comfortable life and thriving community.