About Dream Stables' Services

Dream Stables maintains your pet's regular routine while you are away, eliminating any stress for them, giving you and your pet peace of mind. Dream Stables treats your pets as if they were our own.

Michael Sontarp is certified by the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS).

Dream Stables has experience with all dog and cat breeds, large and small horse facilities, rabbits, birds, goats, chickens, fish (both salt and fresh water), to name a few.

Michael will meet with you prior to your date of service to become familiar with your pet(s) and his/her needs, surroundings and routine.

Dream Stables maintains a database and client profile sheets on each client (listing phone numbers, health information, pet care and any additional or special instructions).

Dream Stables is fully insured and bonded.

Michael will also keep an eye on your home while you are away, making it appear to the outside world that someone is home. He can help make life easier on your family and help make your return more pleasant (pet taxi services, watering plants, bringing in the mail and/or newspaper, turning lights on/off, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Meet & Greet?

A Meet & Greet is what we refer to as the initial interview or consultation where we meet to introduce ourselves and it gives me the opportunity to meet your pet and have him/her get comfortable with me. At this time you can ask questions that you may have. It also allows Dream Stables the opportunity to learn about your pet's routine and other important information such as daily medications, favorite toys, games he/she likes, etc.

What is Michael's background?

Michael is certified by the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). Dream Stables is bonded and insured. Michael is a multiple-pet owner himself (horses, dogs, cats). Michael has been in the pet care industry for more than 3 years and has earned himself an unblemished reputation. Michael supports various animal rescues including the Monmouth County SPCA. Every year Dream Stables sponsors a Charity Dog Walk in Colts Neck (In 2003 Michael raised nearly $1,000 on behalf of the MCSPCA which directly benefits the hundreds of animals at the facility).

What if there is an emergency while I am away?

At the time of the Meet & Greet, Michael will ask you for important numbers and addresses. These numbers include home, work and cell phone numbers, a reach number if you are on vacation, your veterinarian or blacksmith's number and address, and any other important information (relatives or neighbors). Dream Stables maintains up-to-date files. We carry this information with us at all times. Many of our clients have special needs (medications, dietary, etc.) which we are aware of in advance.

How long is each visit?

Visits can vary depending on the individual pet and his/her needs. Each visit can include feeding, walks, playtime (on or off a leash), park visits (if local), etc. For horses, farm calls may vary in time depending on whether or not your horses need to be turned out or brought back in from the field, feeding, hay dropped, stall cleaning, etc.

How many visits are in a day?

Visits vary depending on your needs and the needs of your pet. Many of my canine clients prefer 2 - 3 visits per day. For puppies or senior canines, a fourth or fifth visit is not unusual and may be necessary to keep your pet happy. For felines, birds and some smaller pets, 1 - 2 visits each day is typical. For equines, we are available for your needs and your horses needs, but the majority of our equine clients choose 1 - 2 visits each day depending on their feeding schedule. Dream Stables will accommodate your pets needs.

How can I check on my pet?

Dream Stables can be reached day or night. We understand the your pet is a member of your family and you may have concerns or just want to get an update. You may phone us at anytime at 732-687-2285.

Can I check references?

Yes. Please feel free at any time to do so as we want you to be comfortable. Dream Stables can provide you in advance with references. In many cases, we may already pet sit for another client with the same breed or similar situation which you may find more at ease with. We are happy to give you these numbers upon request.

What areas do you service?

All of Monmouth County, NJ. Upon request, Dream Stables may be able to service your needs if you live outside of Monmouth County. The majority of our new clients are obtained via referrals or 'word of mouth'. We find that someone living locally may refer Dream Stables to a friend or relative who does not live locally. In those situations, we are happy to consider it but may assess a travel fee.