Frequently asked questions

Cats

Black cat resting calmly
My cat is very shy; how will you make friends with them without scaring them?
Hi! I completely understand how sensitive some cats can be. I always approach shy cats with gentleness, patience, and respect for their personality and pace. I don't rush trust or push for interaction - instead, I give your cat the time and space they need to feel safe and comfortable around me. Before I begin any care, I'll always arrange a meet-and-greet with you and your pet, so your cat can get to know me in a calm, pressure-free way. Over time, many cats relax, become familiar with my visits, and even look forward to them.
Will you clean the litter box every day, and do you check it for health signs?
Yes - during your scheduled visits, I clean the litter box every day as part of caring for your cat's physical needs. I make sure the area is kept clean and comfortable so your cat feels relaxed and at ease. While I'm there, I also pay attention to any signs in the litter box that might tell us about your cat's health - such as unusually wet or dry stools, blood, or other changes - and I'll let you know right away if anything seems unusual. My goal is always to keep your pet's routine stable and stress-free while you're away.
Do you play with indoor cats to keep them from getting bored while I am away?
Yes - keeping your indoor cat mentally and emotionally engaged while you're away is an important part of how I care for them. During my visits, I offer gentle companionship, a calm presence, and interaction tailored to your cat's personality and comfort level. I believe in providing consistent routines, calm energy, and reassurance. While I don't force play, I encourage gentle engagement with toys, attention, or simply being near them so they feel supported rather than bored or lonely. My goal is to make their day as normal and comforting as possible in your absence.

Dogs

Orange tabby cat relaxing in a sink
My dog gets anxious when I leave; how do you help them stay calm?
I understand that separation anxiety can be stressful for both you and your dog. My approach is all about calm companionship, consistent routines, and emotional reassurance - I don't rush interaction, and I let your dog get comfortable at their own pace. I strive to be a stable, reassuring presence so your dog feels supported rather than alone while you're away. Before any sitting begins, we'll do a meet-and-greet so your dog can become familiar with me in a calm, pressure-free way. This can help reduce anxiety and make daily visits feel predictable and comforting for your pup.
Will you walk my dog even if it is raining or very hot outside?
I do offer walks as part of my pet-care services - it's one of the ways I help your dog stay active, engaged, and happy while you're away. However, your dog's safety, comfort, and well-being always come first. If the weather is extremely hot, stormy, or dangerous, I'll adjust the plan so your dog still gets appropriate care without risking overheating, slipping, or distress. For example, on very hot days, I might opt for a shorter walk in the cooler parts of the day, walk in shaded areas, or do indoor play and mental enrichment instead. If your dog has special needs related to weather, I'll be sure to follow your instructions and keep you informed every step of the way. My goal is always to make sure your dog feels safe, supported, and comfortable.
Do you keep dogs on a leash at all times to prevent them from running away?
Yes - when I take your dog out for a walk, I always use a leash to keep them safe and prevent them from running off. Your dog's safety is a top priority for me, and keeping them on a leash helps ensure they stay close and secure, especially in busy or unfamiliar areas. I pay close attention to my surroundings and your dog's comfort so they can enjoy their walk without stress. If you have any specific preferences for leash type or walking style, please let me know and I'll happily follow your instructions.

Pricing

Grey and white tabby cat sitting on a dark surface
Do you offer pricing packages, or is everything charged per visit?
Yes — I do offer packages. Since every pet's routine is different, I like to learn what you need first (your dates, location, how many visits per day, and any special care like medication or longer playtime). Then I'll suggest the best package option and send you a clear quotation — no pressure, and everything is confirmed upfront.
What areas do you cover in Ho Chi Minh City, and is there an extra fee for far locations?
I cover all of Ho Chi Minh City. For long-distance commuting, an additional travel fee may apply — if that's the case, I'll let you know in advance when I send your quotation so there are no surprises.
Do you have different rates for holidays or peak travel dates?
Yes, during holidays and peak periods, holiday rates may apply, because schedules fill quickly and planning is tighter. If your dates fall into a holiday/peak period, I'll include that clearly in your quotation upfront, so you'll always know the total price before you confirm.

Curious questions

Larissa with a dog
What is your backup plan if you get sick and cannot make it to the visit?
I always plan my pet care schedule carefully, and I take my commitment to your pet's routine very seriously. If I ever became sick or unable to make a scheduled visit, I would notify you as early as possible so we can make a plan together. In that case, I would help you find a trusted alternative caregiver - whether that's someone I know personally or another experienced pet sitter - so your pet's comfort and care are not interrupted. Your pet's safety and peace of mind are always my top priority, and I will communicate clearly and promptly if something unexpected comes up.
How do you handle a pet that refuses to eat their food because they miss their owner?
If your pet refuses to eat because they're missing you, I always approach the situation with calm support and patience. I know pets can react emotionally when their routine changes, so I respect their pace and work gently to help them feel safe and comfortable in my presence. I offer reassurance by being a steady, gentle companion, keeping familiar elements in place (such as their usual feeding location and routine), and checking that their environment feels calm. If a pet still won't eat and I'm concerned about their health, I'll communicate with you right away so we can decide together what's best - which may include a vet visit if needed. My goal is to support your pet's emotional and physical needs and to keep their daily life as stable as possible while you're away.
Do you come to my house to meet my pet before the first job starts?
Yes - I believe it's very important that you and your pet feel comfortable with me before I start any care visits. I invite you to schedule a meet-and-greet in your home so we can get to know each other, talk about your pet's routine, and make sure your pet has a chance to see me in a calm, pressure-free setting before the first job begins. Choosing a pet sitter is a personal decision, and I want to make sure it feels right for both you and your pet before we get started.

About Larissa

Larissa Nguyen portrait
How often will you send me photos and text updates about my pet?
I understand how reassuring it is to see your pet doing well while you're away - so I include regular photo and video updates as part of my care service. You can expect me to send updates frequently throughout the visit, showing your pet eating, resting, or interacting in a calm, happy way. I also keep communication clear and responsive, so if anything unusual comes up, I'll message you right away. My goal is to help you feel connected and confident that your pet is safe, comfortable, and cared for every step of the way.
Do you do extra things, like bringing in the mail or cleaning muddy paws?
Yes - while my main focus is your pet's comfort, safety, and emotional well-being, I am happy to help with small household tasks that make your time away easier for you and more comfortable for your pet. For example, I can bring in the mail or packages and take a moment to wipe muddy paws after a walk or outdoor play session, as long as these tasks fit within the visit time we've scheduled and you let me know your preferences in advance. My goal is to be a reliable, thoughtful presence in your home so both you and your pet feel supported while you're away. I always communicate clearly and respect your instructions for how you want things handled.
How do you handle my keys, and how do you keep my home secure while I'm away?
I'm very careful with keys and home security. Your keys are kept secure and never shared, and I don't label keys with your full address. I only enter your home at the agreed-upon times for your booking. After each visit, I make sure everything is left exactly as you prefer (doors/gates locked, lights/fans set correctly) and I'll message you an update so you feel confident your pet and your home are in safe hands. If anything unusual ever happens (lock issues, key concerns), I'll contact you immediately and follow your instructions.

Let Us See If This Feels Right

Choosing a pet sitter is a personal decision. It is important that it feels right for both you and your pet.

If you are a busy professional or frequent traveller seeking dependable care in Ho Chi Minh City, I invite you to get in touch. It is always worth scheduling a meeting to see if we feel like the right fit, with no obligation.

Your peace of mind and your pet's sense of safety always come first.

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Email
thaohieunguyen.458@gmail.com
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+84 328 644 949
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