FAQs Page
It is important that you are familiar with our Terms of Service, Privacy Policy and Insurance details. In addition, Pet Hosts also need to be familiar with the Pet Host Terms of Use. The following FAQs are meant to act as guidance to existing and potential Pet Owners and Hosts using the platform. If there is any contradiction between details contained in the FAQs and any of the Terms of Service, Pet Host Terms of Use, Privacy Policy and Insurance details page, the latter mentioned documents will supersede the FAQs.
For Pet Owners:
How does PetCrib work?
So, you are going away for work or for a holiday and looking for a Crib for your pet and someone who will look after your baby like you do? Don't stress, Pet Owners can search for hosts in their local area and submit a booking request directly to a Pet Host through the platform. Pet Hosts have the option to accept or decline the request, and once accepted, Pet Owners and Pet Hosts can coordinate the details of the service and arrange a meet up before the booking.
Why use PetCrib?
No cages and kennels. You can request to book a trusted Pet Host in your neighbourhood who has the experience in caring for pets and will give your pet personal and loving attention while you are away.
PetCrib is also a simple platform that focuses on two types of services: Overnight Stays or Daycare Stays with an additional option to pay for the Pet Host to pick up and drop off the Pet at the start and end of the booking.
We are not trying to be all things for pets and provide multiple services and products. With a simple model and clear focus, PetCrib operates at a much lower cost than other providers and therefore can pass on this benefit in the form of lower Platform fees, which means Pet Hosts keep a larger share of their hard-earned revenue, and Pet Owners are paying lower booking fees.
PetCrib is also a simple platform that focuses on two types of services: Overnight Stays or Daycare Stays with an additional option to pay for the Pet Host to pick up and drop off the Pet at the start and end of the booking.
We are not trying to be all things for pets and provide multiple services and products. With a simple model and clear focus, PetCrib operates at a much lower cost than other providers and therefore can pass on this benefit in the form of lower Platform fees, which means Pet Hosts keep a larger share of their hard-earned revenue, and Pet Owners are paying lower booking fees.
What kind of services do our Pet Hosts offer?
Pet Hosts listed on the PetCrib platform offer two types of services, including Overnight Stays and Daycare Stays both at the Pet Host’s Crib. You can find a Pet Host who offers the services that best meet your pet's needs. A Pet Host may also offer a Pick Up and Drop Off service as well.
How do I know if a Pet Host is trustworthy?
All Pet Hosts are required to accept a specific set of Pet Hosting terms and conditions, as well as go through a manual review process whereby there is an ID check, review of details on their level of experience with caring for pets. We also provide the option for Pet Hosts to provide valid background /police check which Pet Owners can select for in the search results. You can also read reviews from other vetted Pet Owners who have used the Pet Hosts’ services in the past.
We also recommend:
We also recommend:
- Organising a time to meet the Pet Host prior to your booking to establish a relationship and make sure they are the best carer for your pet. This is one of the best ways to set clear expectations for the care of your pet. A meet and greet is not mandatory but recommended.
- Doing a shorter booking and book for a night or two with your chosen Pet Host before your long trip away. A shorter booking can be a great step for feeling more comfortable with your Pet Host and letting your pet become more familiar with the new environment.
What are the fees for using PetCrib?
Pet Hosting fees can vary between Pet Hosts. Each Pet Host sets their own fees. PetCrib charges Pet Owners a Booking Fee for each booking made through our platform. The Booking Fee is a 2.5% fee of the total Booking Cost and is clearly stated during the booking process.
For the Pet Hosting option that meets your budget, browse the list of Pet Hosts in your area.
For the Pet Hosting option that meets your budget, browse the list of Pet Hosts in your area.
Will the Pet Host have other animals at their home?
When searching for a Pet Host, you can filter your search to show the Pet Hosts that do or do not have other pets at home. If choosing a Pet Host that already has pets, you will be able to see information about their pet on their profile. Feel free to ask the Pet Host any questions about their pet, as they will know their pet the best! It is important to have all pets present at the meet and greet to ensure they all get along before booking.
How do I pay the Pet Host?
Avoid the awkward cash exchange. Payment is handled securely through our platform using our third-party payment processer Stripe which is a secure payment gateway. You can add your payment information and pay for services directly through the platform in the ‘Payment Methods’ section in ‘Account Settings’. The Pet Host will be paid after the services are provided. Secure and stress-free.
Can I use PetCrib as a Pet Owner and Pet Host?
Yes, you can use one account to manage all of your bookings as both a Pet Owner and Pet Host!
What if I have a problem with a Pet Host?
We are committed to providing a safe and reliable platform to help connect Pet Hosts and Pet Owners. If you have any issues with a particular Pet Host, it is your responsibility to resolve any issues or disputes directly with the Pet Host. If you have tried to address a particular issue directly with the Pet Host however couldn’t reach a suitable resolution, please contact us immediately on support@petcrib.com.au and we will do our best to help with the issue. Please ensure all your communication with a Pet Host is via the platform so there is documented support.
What happens in case of an emergency?
We understand, things happen outside of our control. Pet Hosts are responsible for providing emergency contact information in their profiles. In the case of an emergency, Pet Owners should first contact the Pet Hosts directly.
If urgent veterinary care is needed for your pet, please ensure that either you or the Pet Host arranges as needed.
If urgent veterinary care is needed for your pet, please ensure that either you or the Pet Host arranges as needed.
What happens if I want to cancel a Booking or a Pet Host cancels?
We understand that plans can change, and sometimes it may be necessary for you to cancel a booking on PetCrib. However, please note that cancelling a booking can cause inconvenience to the Pet Host. We have put in place some policies to outline what the process may be in each situation. Our Cancellation Policy and Refund procedures are outlined in our Terms of Service.
If a Pet Host cancel's a paid booking, the Pet Host is required to immediately message the Pet Owner to notify them of the circumstances and reach out to support@petcrib.com.au to cancel it.
PetCrib will refund the full amount paid to the Pet Owner where the Pet Host cancels. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the cancellation we may suspend the Pet Host’s profile. If more than two paid bookings are cancelled within two months, PetCrib may remove the Pet Host's profile.
- If a Booking is cancelled before 48 hours of the start time of the Booking, the Pet Owner will receive a full refund of the Pet Hosting Fee.
- If the cancellation occurs within 48 hours of the start time of the Booking, then the Pet Owner will not receive a refund of the Pet Hosting Fee.
If a Pet Host cancel's a paid booking, the Pet Host is required to immediately message the Pet Owner to notify them of the circumstances and reach out to support@petcrib.com.au to cancel it.
PetCrib will refund the full amount paid to the Pet Owner where the Pet Host cancels. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the cancellation we may suspend the Pet Host’s profile. If more than two paid bookings are cancelled within two months, PetCrib may remove the Pet Host's profile.
Can I get a refund after a Booking is completed?
PetCrib will refund the full amount paid to the Pet Owner where the Pet Host cancels. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the cancellation we may suspend the Pet Host’s profile. If more than two paid bookings are cancelled within two months, PetCrib may remove the Pet Host's profile.
However, to be eligible for a refund, the following needs to have happened:
Once this has been reported to PetCrib, we will review what has happened and discuss with both parties to attempt to reach an agreement around a solution. This is also outlined in our Terms of Service.
However, to be eligible for a refund, the following needs to have happened:
- The Pet Owner and Pet Host must have had a Meet and Greet before the booking (in person or digitally);
- The Booking must have been paid for through the PetCrib website; and
- If the Booking has finished, then the Pet Owner must have left a poor review for the Pet Host.
Once this has been reported to PetCrib, we will review what has happened and discuss with both parties to attempt to reach an agreement around a solution. This is also outlined in our Terms of Service.
For Pet Hosts:
What is Pet Hosting?
Pet Hosting is the general term used to describe looking after other people's pets and otherwise known as pet sitting.
Pet Hosting includes looking after pets at the Pet Hosts house, either overnight or during the day (also known as Day Care).
The Pet Hosts roles and responsibilities include:
Pet Hosting includes looking after pets at the Pet Hosts house, either overnight or during the day (also known as Day Care).
The Pet Hosts roles and responsibilities include:
- Providing a safe and comfortable environment for the pet to stay;
- Feeding, walking, and caring for the pet according to the owner's instructions;
- Administering any necessary medications or treatments to the pet as instructed by the Pet Owner;
- Regularly communicating with the owner to provide updates on the pet's well-being;
- Ensuring that the pet is secure and cannot escape from your Crib;
- Having access to a vehicle in case of emergency; and
- Reporting any issues or concerns to the Pet Owner or to us promptly.
How do I become a Pet Host on PetCrib?
Pet Hosting is recommended for people who love pets and are looking for a way to make some additional income and want a way to combine both. Gain the ability to work as much or as little as you like, set your own prices and have freedom and flexibility by setting your own availability. If that all sounds amazing to you, then becoming a Pet Host on PetCrib is a very easy and free process.
A Pet Host can create a profile by going to Petcrib.com.au and selecting ‘Become a Host’ in the top right corner of the home page. The Pet Host will be prompted to sign up and then provide their relevant personal information, emergency contact details, including their pet preferences, availability, pricing, experience and credentials. Pet Hosts can also upload a valid background and police check which will help boost their profile and increase the trustworthiness factor of your profile that Pet Owners want and need. Pet Hosts will also need to accept a specific Pet Host Terms of Use agreement. Once submitted:
A Pet Host can create a profile by going to Petcrib.com.au and selecting ‘Become a Host’ in the top right corner of the home page. The Pet Host will be prompted to sign up and then provide their relevant personal information, emergency contact details, including their pet preferences, availability, pricing, experience and credentials. Pet Hosts can also upload a valid background and police check which will help boost their profile and increase the trustworthiness factor of your profile that Pet Owners want and need. Pet Hosts will also need to accept a specific Pet Host Terms of Use agreement. Once submitted:
- The profile will be manually reviewed and approved by our team;
- Keep an eye on your email—our profile experts may ask you to modify a few things to make your profile the best it can be prior to the profile being approved;
- You should hear from us within 7 business days. We will notify you via email if your profile is approved;
- Once your profile is approved, your profile and services will be visible in the PetCrib platform and Pet Owners will be able to contact you and request bookings.
What is the benefit of using PetCrib and what are the fees?
We take care of the boring stuff so you can focus on more playtime! That’s why our low 10% Service Fee covers improvements to the platform, customer support, secure online payments and public liability insurance.
How much information should I add into my profile?
We recommend the more information the better. Put your heart into your profile and tell potential Pet Owners your personal story and experiences. Honestly is always the best policy. Pet parents just want to know that their fur babies will be looked after by loving and responsible animal lovers so the more thought you put into your profile the better!
Why do I have to add photos to my profile?
Clear photos make you more approachable and testimonials from friends provide social proof. Both increase the trustworthiness of your profile to make potential clients feel safe.
How do I get a Background / Police Check?
Getting a Police Check on yourself is relatively affordable and easy to obtain online.
Do I have to accept all booking requests that are made?
No, you will always have the option of approving each individual booking enquiry that comes to you at your discretion.
Do I need insurance as a Pet Host?
To help provide Pet Hosts with that added piece of mind, all bookings made through our platform will have access to Public & Products Liability Insurance Cover Insurance details.
Public & Products Liability covers Hosts for your liability to third parties resulting from personal injury or property damage caused during the provision of pet minding services. Further details of the Insurance coverage and required steps if making a claim under the policy can be found in the above link. We suggest that you check the Pet Owner has taken out their own Pet Insurance.
Public & Products Liability covers Hosts for your liability to third parties resulting from personal injury or property damage caused during the provision of pet minding services. Further details of the Insurance coverage and required steps if making a claim under the policy can be found in the above link. We suggest that you check the Pet Owner has taken out their own Pet Insurance.
How do I get access to the Public & Products Liability cover?
Public & Products Liability cover only applies to services booked and paid through the PetCrib platform. It does not apply to services provided outside this platform.
How do I prepare myself before Hosting a Pet at my Crib?
Before hosting a pet at your home, here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Pet-proof your Crib: Make sure your Crib is safe for pets. This means removing any hazardous items or materials that the pet may be able to access.
- Familiarise yourself with the pet's needs: Before the pet arrives, make sure you are aware of any special needs or requirements the pet may have. This could include dietary restrictions, medications, or exercise needs.
- Create a pet-friendly space: Set up a comfortable space for the pet to stay during their visit. This could include a cozy bed, toys, and water and food dishes.
- Have a plan for emergencies: In the unlikely event of an emergency, it's important to have a plan in place. Make sure you have the contact information for the nearest veterinarian or the Pet Owner’s preferred vet.
- Communicate with the Pet Owner: Communicate with the Pet Owner to ensure you understand their expectations and preferences for their pet's time at your Crib. This will help ensure a smooth and positive experience for both you and the pet.
- Meet Up with Pet and Pet Owner: To ensure that both Pet and Pet Host are comfortable with the upcoming booking, we encourage that the Pet Owner and Pet Host arrange a Meet Up before the booking (in person or digitally) and set expectations.
How do I set up my pet preferences?
To receive more relevant requests, it's a good idea to specify your pet and booking preferences. Here are preferences you can set and manage from your account:
- The maximum number of pets you're comfortable watching per day;
- Pet size preferences;
- Whether you Overnight or Day care services;
- Whether you offer Drop off or Pick up services;
- Whether you offer cat services;
- Upcoming availability.
- Navigate to your profile by selecting ‘Update Profile’ and 'Edit Listing’ in your Profile;
- Once you're done editing, select Save. You’re all set! The changes should flow through automatically to your profile.
How do I set my availability?
Keeping your calendar up to date is an important part of managing your business on PetCrib. You can use PetCrib's calendar feature to manage your availability for specific dates and services. This can be updated by selecting ‘Update Profile’ and “Edit Listing’ in your Profile.
How and when will I receive the payment?
Payment is processed securely through our third-party payment processor Stripe, and Pet Hosts will receive the Pet Hosting Fee (minus our Service Fee) to a nominated bank account that is displayed in the ‘Payout Details’ section of the Account Settings. The payment is processed and paid no earlier than 72 hours post completion of the Pet Hosting Service.
Do I need to get a permit to become a Pet Host?
A Pet Host on PetCrib will need to make sure that they are in compliance with all relevant laws. This includes any federal, state, and local council laws relating to the hosting of animals and the keeping of animals at your own property and under your control.
You are solely responsible for obtaining all necessary licenses and permits. PetCrib assumes no responsibility for a Pet Hosts failure to obtain any necessary permits. You can read more about this in our Terms of Service.
Take note: PetCrib is a platform connecting Pet Hosts with Pet Owners and is not an employer. As such, Pet Hosts are responsible for their own compliance with Federal, State and Council regulations.
Pet Hosting Codes of Practice in Australian States and Territories:
You are solely responsible for obtaining all necessary licenses and permits. PetCrib assumes no responsibility for a Pet Hosts failure to obtain any necessary permits. You can read more about this in our Terms of Service.
Take note: PetCrib is a platform connecting Pet Hosts with Pet Owners and is not an employer. As such, Pet Hosts are responsible for their own compliance with Federal, State and Council regulations.
Pet Hosting Codes of Practice in Australian States and Territories:
New South Wales
http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/animals-and-livestock/animal-welfare/general/ welfare-of-dogs/aw-code-5Australian Capital Territory
(http://www.legislation.act.gov.au/a/1992-45/di.asp) Queensland (https://www.qld.gov.au/families/government/pets/pages/pet- laws.html)Northern Territory
http://www.animalwelfare.nt.gov.au/national_standards_and_guidelinesVictoria
(http://agriculture.vic.gov.au/pets/domestic-animal-businesses/boarding- establishments/code-of-practice-for-the-operation-of-boarding- establishments)Tasmania
(http://dpipwe.tas.gov.au/)South Australia
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/managing-natural- resources/plants-and-animals/Animal_welfare/Codes_of_practice/ Animal_welfare_codes_of_practiceWestern Australia
(https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/consumer- protection/house-pet-or-baby-sitting-services)What if there is an emergency?
We understand, things happen outside of our control. Pet Hosts are responsible for providing emergency contact information in their profiles. In the case of an emergency, Pet Owners should first contact the Pet Hosts directly.
If urgent veterinary care is needed for your pet, please ensure that either you or the Pet Host arranges as needed.
If urgent veterinary care is needed for your pet, please ensure that either you or the Pet Host arranges as needed.
How does PetCrib ensure the safety and well-being of pets?
We require all Pet Hosts to provide information about their experience and credentials, and we encourage Pet Owners to review Pet Hosts' profiles and ratings before booking. We also provide a platform for communication between Pet Owners and Pet Hosts to ensure that all details are agreed upon prior to the booking.
What happens if I want to cancel a Booking or a Pet Owner cancels?
We understand that plans can change, and sometimes it may be necessary for a Pet Owner to cancel a booking on PetCrib. We understand that a Pet Owner cancelling a booking can cause inconvenience to the Pet Host. We have put in place some policies to outline what the process may be in each situation. Our Cancellation Policy and Refund procedures are outlined in our Terms of Service. Please note:
If a Pet Host cancel's a paid booking, the Pet Host is required to immediately message the Pet Owner to notify them of the circumstances and reach out to support@petcrib.com.au in order to cancel it.
PetCrib will refund the full amount paid to the Pet Owner where the Pet Host cancels. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the cancellation we may suspend the Pet Host’s profile. If more than two paid bookings are cancelled within two months, PetCrib may remove the Pet Host's profile.
- If a Booking is cancelled before 48 hours of the start time of the Booking, the Pet Owner will receive a full refund of the Pet Hosting Fee.
- If the cancellation occurs within 48 hours of the start time of the Booking, the Pet Owner will be required to pay any applicable Cancellation Fee to the Pet Host (minus our ‘Service Fee’).
If a Pet Host cancel's a paid booking, the Pet Host is required to immediately message the Pet Owner to notify them of the circumstances and reach out to support@petcrib.com.au in order to cancel it.
PetCrib will refund the full amount paid to the Pet Owner where the Pet Host cancels. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the cancellation we may suspend the Pet Host’s profile. If more than two paid bookings are cancelled within two months, PetCrib may remove the Pet Host's profile.
How does PetCrib handle disputes?
We are committed to providing a safe and reliable platform to help connect Pet Hosts and Pet Owners. If you have any issues with a particular Pet Owner, it is your responsibility to resolve any issues or disputes directly with the Pet Owner. If you have tried to address a particular issue directly with the Pet Owner however couldn’t reach a suitable resolution, please contact us immediately on support@petcrib.com.au and we will do our best to help with the issue. Please ensure all your communication with a Pet Owner is via the platform so there is documented support.
My circumstances have changed, and I no longer wish to be a Pet Host and receive booking requests?
We would be sad to see you go! However, we understand our lives get busy and it might mean you wish to pause or remove your account on PetCrib. If that’s the case, please email support@petcrib.com.au with the Subject line: Request to remove Pet Host Profile - [Your name].