1. What is the process of becoming a Companion ℠ Family?
First, we get accquainted. The easiest way would be to get in contact with us via one of these methods:
- Fill out a Companion Family contact form
- Email us at info@FlipFlopDogs.com
- Call us at 800.710.1740
After the initial contact, you will be asked to have a brief phone interview to establish that you meet the basic requirements for being a Companion Family. The next step is an in-person interview from your local franchise, which is when we discuss more about you, specifically your likes verse dislikes regarding dogs and your schedule. Lastly, we require a home inspection, for safety reasons, and a criminal background check. These steps are required because we want to provide our customers with a carefree vacation and ensuring that their dog is in safe and loving hands while they are away.
2. Who can become a Companion Family? Do you have to be a certain age?
We do not have any prerequisites as to who fits the profile of a Companion Family. However, we require that you go through the interview process and that you are absolutely crazy about dogs.
3. When do I receive notification about getting a dog?
We ask for availability for one month in advance. When we find a dog that fits your profile and schedule, we contact you immediately via phone and email for acceptance.
4. Do I receive compensation for being a Companion Family?
Yes! We love how well you take care of the dogs and want to give you compensation for your time. However, FlipFlop® Companion Families do not depend on watching dogs for income. This is strictly for companionship (and some doggy kisses), without the full-time commitment of owning a dog. Some of our Companion Families love dogs so much that they donate their compensation back to their local Humane Society, or a dog charity of their choice. Let us know if you would like to do this and we can set this up for you!
5. How do I schedule for dogs to stay with me?
We would like you to email your schedule for a month in advance to your local franchise. This allows us to have enough time frame to schedule the visiting dog’s vacation with yours.
6. What happens if something goes wrong while I’m watching a dog?
FlipFlop Dog’s services are back by a company focused on providing superior care. There are specific processes that are agreed upon contractually and will be followed for routine care or even authorized emergency care. You have the support of the local franchise and our centralized call center around the clock.
7. Do I have to give the customer’s updates?
No, we are happy to do this for you. Send us a picture or video and we will pass them along!
8. Do I have to alter my daily routine while I’m caring for a dog?
Generally no, but we do require that dogs are not unattended for more than four hours. If you do have to leave for a few hours, we ask that you do not do this consistently throughout the day.
9. What if I’m scared of certain type of dogs?
Because our first priority is making the perfect match between Companion Families and the dogs they care for, we will be happy to give you only dogs that you enjoy watching. When we meet with you, please indicate what type of dog you prefer – you can even say a certain breed.
10. Who should I send a picture of the dog I’m caring for?
Send them to us! We would love to see them and pass them along to their owners. They greatly appreciate how their furry best friend is doing on their vacation!
11. How do I get the dog?
We provide the transportation. We will pick up the dog at the owner’s house and drop him off at your house, on the scheduled date and time. We will go over all the information the owner would like you to know at that point.
12. Any other questions?
Please contact us at 800.710.1740 or email us at info@flipflopdogs.com.
Click here to request more information on FlipFlop® Companion Families