(614) 636-6644
Best dog walkers and pet sitters in Columbus Ohio

Welcome Guide & First Steps

What’s covered in this article! 👉

Your Onboarding Checklist

Congratulations on completing your orientation and welcome to the Hands N Paws team! We are so excited to have you. This guide is your roadmap to getting started—simply follow the steps below to become an active team member.

Click here for a refresher on the main points discussed during orientation!
Here’s a refresher on the main topics covered in your orientation:

Our Mission
Founded in 2018, Hands N Paws exists to give pet parents peace of mind. We provide reliable in-home pet care so clients know their furry family members are safe and happy, even when life gets busy. Learn more about our service areas here.

Your Role
As a Pet Care Technician, you are the heart of our mission. Your dedication directly impacts pets and their owners across Columbus every day. We value trust, professionalism, and a genuine love for animals.

Leadership & Support
Our leaders are here to help you grow and succeed. They provide:

Regular feedback and praise based on your journal entries
Real-time support via Slack
Monthly roundtable discussions and game nights
Ongoing resources through blogs and team support articles

Their goal is to mentor you, not just manage you.

Your Responsibilities
Deliver consistent, exceptional pet care
Communicate clearly and proactively with clients
Support your fellow team members
Embrace feedback and strive to improve
Uphold the Hands N Paws standard of excellence

Scheduling
Clients book services through Precise Petcare, and visits are available for you to accept on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll receive instant notifications for new requests. Your Team Lead will also be manually assigning visits based on your availability—so you’ll always have opportunities.

Tools You’ll Use
Precise Petcare: Manage visits, access client and pet notes, log time, and submit journals
Slack: Communicate with the team, get support, and stay updated

Additional Resources
Service Checklist: Use this guide—especially in your first month—to ensure thorough, consistent visits
Taxes: You’re an Independent Contractor (1099), so track your expenses for tax write-offs
Team Support Center: Your hub for all guides, FAQs, and help articles

Welcome to the team—we’re glad you’re here! For further questions, reach out to your team anytime in Slack!

Step 1: Complete Your Onboarding Paperwork

Please complete these four required documents within 24 hours of your orientation to finalize your position.

🔗 Use the links below to access and submit your digital onboarding forms.

Independent Contractor Agreement
Tell Us About You Questionnaire
W-9 Form
Direct Deposit Form

For any questions about pay, bank forms, or compensation, please contact our payroll department at JC Tax Pros: Joon S. Jang — payroll@jctaxpros.com | 614-453-5902.

Step 2: Download & Set Up Our Apps

You’ll use two main tools every day:

A. Precise Petcare

This is where you’ll manage visits, access client notes, and more.

Download: Search “Precise Petcare” in your app store (purple paw icon).
Log in: Use the email we contacted you with and the temporary password: teamhnp050918!
Enable notifications so you never miss a visit request, client message, etc.
Set your availability under Availability so we know when you’re ready to work. Click here for help.

*Pro Tip: Update your availability on a rolling two-week basis to stay active and get assigned more visits!

B. Slack

This is how our team communicates, shares updates, and supports one another.

Download the Slack app (multicolored icon).
Join our workspace using this invite link.
Set up your profile:
✔️ Upload a friendly photo (preferably a selfie with a pet!).
✔️ Set your display name to First Name + Last Initial (e.g., Benny D.).
Introduce yourself in the #general channel—we can’t wait to meet you!

🚨 IMPORTANT: Be sure to enable notifications for both apps in your phone settings.

Step 3: Message Your Team Lead & Get on the Schedule!

You’re almost there! Now it’s time to get your first assignment.

Notify Your Team Lead: Send a direct message (DM) to Benny on Slack:“Hi Benny, I’ve completed my onboarding forms, downloaded the apps, and my availability in Precise Petcare is set—I’m ready for assignments!”

What happens next?
Benny will assign your first visit and connect you with a Team Lead who will join you, in-person, to provide support and answer any questions in real-time.

Step 4: Gear Up for Your First Visit!

Your first assignment is booked! Here’s your pre-visit checklist to ensure you—and the pet(s)—have a great experience.

✅ Before You Go:

Study Up: Dive into the client & pet notes in Precise Petcare. Know the routine, home entry details, and any special instructions.
Pack Your Go-Bag: Every pro has their essentials.
✔️ Backup Leash
✔️ Poop Bags
✔️ Portable Water Bowl
✔️ Weather Gear (raincoat, sunscreen, etc.)
Rep The Pack! Want to look the part? Rock our official HNP gear from our Etsy Shop (totally optional, but always stylish!).

✅ During the Visit:

You’ve Got Backup! Remember, a Team Lead will be there with you on your first visit to offer support.
Reference: Use the Service Checklist and client notes to guide you.
Be confident! You have wonderful resources, including a whole team behind you.
Be present! Focus on providing excellent care and building trust.
Be communicative! Your Team Lead is there to help—ask them anything!
Ask: No question is too small! Your Team Lead is a resource for tips and advice.

✅ After the Visit:

Complete: Finish all tasks in the Precise Petcare app (logging time, sending the journal report).
Debrief: The Team Lead on site will provide feedback and tips right away. Benny will likely reach out to check in, see how it went, and provide further feedback.

Your Ongoing Support System

You’re never on your own. We’ve built a full support system for you.

Slack is #1: Use the #help channel for instant support during visits.
Team Support Center: Your central hub for step-by-step guides and pet care tips (you’re here now!).
HNP Blog: Find deep dives on pet care, client communication, and seasonal advice to sharpen your skills.

We are so excited to have you on the team. Let’s do great things together!

✨ Explore our New Team Member FAQs for more helpful tips and answers.

Other Help Articles

Stop your worry & stress about your pets!

Get Started
X
Screenshot 2024 05 06 at 11.59.44 AM fotor bg remover 20240506122627

By signing this agreement, you confirm that you’ve read, understood, and agreed to the policies below. Your signature also allows us to add your email to our mailing list (you can change your preferences anytime).

Key Terms
– Client = You
– Company = Hands N Paws
– Team Member(s) = Our pet care professionals

—

Emergency Care Policy
You’re responsible for providing emergency instructions and medical details for your pet. Otherwise, we’ll contact your vet or an emergency clinic in case of an emergency. Team Members may make urgent care decisions (excluding euthanasia) if immediate action is needed. You’re responsible for any veterinary costs, and Hands N Paws isn’t liable for circumstances beyond our control.

—

Home Access Policy
A lockbox with a spare key is required to ensure we can access your home. Garage or keypad codes are okay but don’t replace the need for a lockbox. Provide clear access instructions in your account notes. If entry is complicated, email us a video walkthrough to avoid delays. Our priority is your pets, not troubleshooting access!

—

Cancellation Policy
We get it—plans change! Here’s our policy:
– 48+ hours notice: 100% refund as Account Credit.
– 24-48 hours notice: 50% refund as Account Credit.
– Less than 24 hours: No refund.
Refunds are issued as Account Credits and auto-apply to your next invoice.

—

Safe & Sanitary Environment
You understand and agree that the environment in which we provide services is reasonably sanitary and safe. If we determine that your home is unsanitary or unsafe, we’ll let you know and take appropriate action, which may include stopping services.

—

Service Termination Policy
In rare cases, if we believe there’s a serious danger to the health or safety of our Team Members or your pets, we may terminate services during a scheduled period. If this happens, you agree to cover the cost of boarding your pet or arranging alternative care until you return. We’ll do our best to notify you and/or your emergency contacts in these situations.

—

Third-Party Access Policy
You’re responsible for letting us know if anyone else will have access to your home during the scheduled services. Hands N Paws is not liable for any loss, expense, or damage caused by third parties entering your home during this time.

—

Vaccination, Licensing & ID Policy
Before services begin, all pets MUST:
– Be up-to-date on vaccinations and local licensing.
– Wear an ID tag with your contact info or be microchipped for identification.

—

Pet Safety Policy
For everyone’s safety, dogs must remain leashed during walks. Off-leash walks are strictly prohibited.

—

Accurate Pet Information Policy
Keep your pet’s info in your account accurate and up-to-date. Every three months, you’ll be prompted to review and confirm your pet’s details before being able to request services. Hands N Paws isn’t responsible for issues caused by outdated or incorrect information.

—

Provide Visuals Policy
For complex routines or home entry instructions, please record a video and email it to us. A visual guide helps us better understand your needs and ensures smooth service delivery.

—

Flexible Arrival Times
Services are scheduled within a two-hour arrival window to accommodate travel and other clients. While we’ll do our best to meet your preferred times, exact arrival times can’t be guaranteed.

—

Trial Visits
For extended pet care (e.g., vacation services), we require a Trial Visit while you’re still in town. This helps ensure your pet is comfortable with our team before committing to long-term care.

—

Service Request Approval & Availability
We do our best to accommodate all requests, but approval depends on Team Member availability. After submitting a request, you’ll receive an email confirmation or declination within 48 hours. If declined, we’ll work with you to explore alternatives.

—

Communication Policy
Team Members will update you on your pet’s care through post-service journal entries in your account. If they have urgent questions during a service, they’ll call you using the number on file. If you receive a Team Member’s personal number, please don’t use it freely. Keep all communication in your account by responding to journals, updating service notes, or, if needed, contact our main office.

—

Team Appreciation
Our Team Members work hard to care for your pets, and a little appreciation goes a long way! Feel free to leave kind journal comments, rate services, or tip for exceptional care. It means the world to us!

—

Meet N Greets
A Meet N Greet is required before starting services to ensure we understand your pet’s needs and provide the best care. New Clients can schedule at *www.myhandsnpaws.com*; Existing Clients can book through their account.

—

Pricing & Surcharges
Visit *www.myhandsnpaws.com* for the most up-to-date pricing. Additional fees may apply in certain situations:
– Last-Minute Services: $15 for requests made within 24 hours.
– Holiday Services: $20 per service on major holidays.
– Additional Pets: $7 per pet beyond the first two.
– Service Adjustments: Fees may apply if additional time or tasks are required.
– Account Assistance Fee: If you request us to schedule services, cancel services, update pet notes, or otherwise manage your account without first attempting to do so yourself, a surcharge of 10% of your most recent invoice (minimum $25) will be applied. Our handy Client Support Center is available to guide you step-by-step in managing your account.

—

Payment & Billing
We accept all major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover). A valid card must be stored securely in your account.
– Ongoing Services: Auto-charged every Friday for the previous week’s services.
– One-Time Services: 50% deposit charged upon confirmation; the rest is due by the last service date (auto-charged).
– Declined Payments: You’ll be notified immediately and have 24 hours to resolve it. A 10% late fee (minimum $20) applies after a second declined attempt.

—

Contract Terms
This agreement starts when you sign it and continues until either of us ends it. You can book additional services online anytime, depending on availability. By signing, you authorize Hands N Paws to enter your home and care for your pets without needing extra contracts for confirmed bookings.

—

Thanks for trusting Hands N Paws with your furry family! 🐾