To say that I'm satisfied with TJ and his company would be a major understatement. I have been using his service for eight years after originally being referred to him by a co-worker.
My dog at the time was animal aggressive and I was very hesitant to place responsibility for Balboa in the hands of a stranger, but TJ put my fears to rest immediately. It is obvious to anyone with animal experience that he not only understands dogs, he bonds with them and communicates with them effortlessly. Within a few months of walking with TJ, Balboa was able to play with and greet other dogs and he never snapped or attacked animals again. As my dog became old and senile, TJ was incredibly kind and patient with him and even carried all 75 pounds of Balboa up and down the stairs of my apartment building after his hips began to succumb to the effects of the cancer. When I called to inform him that I'd put Balboa to sleep, I could hear the sadness and pain in TJ's voice and he sent me a sympathy card the same week.
After a few months, I decided I was ready for a new dog and I contacted TJ to let him know I would soon be requiring service again. He volunteered to go to the NY Ave shelter with me, where he helped me pick out an adorable lab/hound mix, Adrienne. She is as excited to see her Uncle TJ every day as she is to see me and she simply adores him. My neighbors often comment that she is better behaved for him on leash than she is for me!
I have referred at least a half dozen friends, neighbors, and co-workers to DC Dogs & Cats LLC without ever hearing a single complaint. Even my ex-girlfriend uses him for cat-sitting! I have been unexpectedly home sick and had family staying in my apartment and TJ shows up at the same time, every day, just like clockwork. I have absolute faith in him and it is a huge relief to know that my furry son is taken care of by the best in the business. I even call TJ when I have veterinary questions and he always seems to know what to do.
While it seems like every unemployed housewife and college dropout is trying to start a pet care business these days, it is good to know that I have a genuine professional working for me. He has literally dedicated his life to animals- I believe he has 3 or 4 dogs of his own at home. It is worth noting that as owner of the company, he does have other walkers working for him. Although I've been fortunate to have the man in charge walking my dog himself, I did have the pleasure of dealing with one of his walkers, Chris, while TJ was on his honeymoon five or six years ago. It's clear that when he does his hiring, TJ uses the same high standards that I've come to expect from every aspect of his business. Oddly,I can't ever recall him taking a vacation day besides his honeymoon.
In eight years, I've had only one billing mistake which TJ corrected quickly and with apologies- not a bad record, considering I'm billed every month. Checks are made out to the company name, so I know he is above reproach with taxes. He is also bonded, insured, and a member of the Better Business Bureau among other professional organizations.
Alright, I could go on- but you get the point. If you're lucky enough to get on TJ's schedule, jump at the opportunity! read more
