Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
About us
Since 2003 Aunt Darlene's has been Central New Jersey's most trusted Dog Walkers, Pet Sitters and Home Dog Boarding Service. Our pet sitters and dog walkers are the best, most affectionate and loving sitters in the business, and our in-home, cage-free boarding is your dog’s home away from home. Please Search for our company and read our reviews. You can also find us on almost every review website. You'll read why our clients would never consider using anyone other than Aunt Darlene to care for their beloved furry little balls of love. Our Service Areas: East Brunswick, Helmetta, Manalapan, Matawan, Aberdeen, Monroe Township, Milltown, Morganville, Old Bridge, Parlin, Sayreville, South River, South Amboy, Spotswood, Laurence Harbor.
Business highlights
22 years of experience
Services we offer
Cat Siting, Daily Dog Walking, Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting (Almost Any Pet), Plant & Garden Watering
Amenities
Free Estimates
Yes
Reviews
4.915 Reviews
| Number of Stars | Image of Distribution | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|
| 93% | ||
| 7% | ||
| 0% | ||
| 0% | ||
| 0% |
Showing 1-15 of 15 reviews
Gloria G.
Nov 2015
unknown
Maureen J.
Sep 2014
Over the summer I adopted a dog that was rarely let out of the house with her previous owner so I knew that I went back to work in September I needed to get someone to exercise my dog. So I contacted Aunt Darlene and started using her services on September 2, 2014. My dog is walk for approx. 30 minutes each work day and I am EXTREMELY happy with the service. My dog loves to walk and her dog walker, Lori, does a great job wearing her out! Lori texts me every day after she walks my dog to let me know how it went. I am very happy with this service and would highly recommend their services.
Carroll P.
May 2014
went ok, dogs were nervous, 1st time. Gave an F in first review because no call back was made. Seems that an error in phone keeping was why no one called me back.
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"We appreciate your review and would like to fully explain what happened so the other people seeing this know how we do things. The client contacted us and Darlene called her back to discuss her needs. She wanted to make sure that we had a dog walker available at the days and times that she was requesting and explained she would call her back as soon as she had a definite answer for her. Darlene then put an orange sticker on her message that sticks out of the message pad so she doesn't forget to call anyone back. Somehow her sticker got folded over into the book and she didn't call her back. Instead of calling us back she gave us F's across the board on our rating. We we're very upset and called immediately to apologize. Our reputation is extremely important to use as we're sure you can tell by our other reviews all around the web. When I spoke to the client I apologized profusely and explained that this was a freak accident and never happens, EVER and even offered her two free dog walks if she decided to use our service. She said she still needed our service and was willing to put the whole thing in the past and start over. Darlene and one of our pet sitters met with the client and went over the details. At the consult the client stated that she had taken her anger and frustration out on us because she had called three pet sitters in total and the other two never bothered to call her back and her tree service guy never showed up and when she didn't get a second call back from us she came here and gave us an extremely bad review because we were the only one's she could find to review. Although the review was changed from F's to B's we feel as though it's still not really a fair judgment of the service we've provided. When asked if she was happy with the service the client stated the first walk was too short, after she had asked for a short walk because her dogs had NEVER been walked before and she was afraid they would be freaked out. We did exactly as she requested and she complained because we did exactly as she requested. We give this business 100% as is obvious by our reviews here and throughout the Internet and hope that you'll see that no matter what you do you just can't please some people and the service provided to this client has not been fairly, or accurately represented in this review."
Paula G.
Mar 2014
Truly the most caring people I have ever met. I can't rate them high enough. I’m an absolute crazy person when it comes to my dog. She is my child. She is my love. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for her. Darlene walks my dog; she is the kindest, dedicated person I have ever met. I can’t say that strong enough. Yesterday I had a doctor’s appointment that run late and I called her up and she run over and walk the dog. They can squeeze it in in case of emergency. They will find a way. They just don’t walk the dog, they sit with the dog, and they will play with the dog. It’s not just, you know, take them for a walk and bring them back. They have a relationship with the dog.
Rajesh A.
Nov 2013
When our previous dog walker got out of the business we scrambled to interview someone new. Ultimately, we decided on Aunt Darlene's after interviewing three different services. She's been in the business for a long time, and it shows. She is well organized and on top of everything relating to her clients. We've been using Darlene's service for about 6 months now. They have been absolutely fantastic. What we require of them goes above and beyond your typical dog walking. Our dog had a lot of special needs, some of which needed to be modified as time went on. We had them coming twice a day, 5 days a week because of these issues. They have gone above and beyond to accommodate our dog's needs. They are always on time, always followed the instructions I left for them, always called if there was a question/concern or something I needed to be aware of. They also have redundant coverage, so if one person is out, someone is always available as a back up. But 99% of the time, one person is coming in and out of our house, This was important to us because we had very little flexibility regarding the schedule. It had to be 5 days a week at fixed times twice a day due to the medical conditions. We also didn't want a revolving door in our house with different people coming every week. All the issues with our dog required someone that was there on a permanent basis. I can honestly say, there is nothing more we could ask of them! We had peace of mind knowing our dog was in good hands when we left for work. To top it all off, they love animals, it's not just a job for them. Our dog adores them as well, often going absolutely bonkers when they come to the house and forgetting about the people that pay the bills! :) We continue to use her services 5 days a week and hope to for a very long time!
If you're looking for a good reliable service, you've found it. And if you're apprehensive (like we were) about having someone else coming to your house or you're worried because your dog has special needs, talk to Darlene. I suspect you won't be disappointed.
A note about the cost written above. AL makes me put something there. We spend a lot more than that on a weekly basis. I didn't put that cost in because it entails the extra time and visits due to the special needs of my dog and wouldn't be reflective of what most people would pay. But I will say I do feel the cost is fair and the service provided is priceless.
If you're looking for a good reliable service, you've found it. And if you're apprehensive (like we were) about having someone else coming to your house or you're worried because your dog has special needs, talk to Darlene. I suspect you won't be disappointed.
A note about the cost written above. AL makes me put something there. We spend a lot more than that on a weekly basis. I didn't put that cost in because it entails the extra time and visits due to the special needs of my dog and wouldn't be reflective of what most people would pay. But I will say I do feel the cost is fair and the service provided is priceless.
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"Thank you so much [Member name removed] for the wonderful review. We can't even express how much we love Chili. He is one of the nicest dogs I've ever met in the 10+ years I've been in business. When I read your message about how he was doing so much better with his medical condition I just started to cry tears of joy. It was the best news I've had this year. Thank you! Darlene & Stacey"
Doreen S.
Oct 2013
Our dog has just stayed at Aunt Darlene's for the second time and they did a great job giving him a safe, nurturing environment with several other doggie friends! He's only stayed with his foster mom before but, when she went away, we were forced to find another place for our pup to stay. Darlene and Tom were very professional and it's obvious that they love these dogs. The first night he stayed away from home he barked because he didn't know the routine but, this time around, I was happy to hear that he settled down nicely with his new canine friends. They really care about your pet and do everything to make sure it's a positive experience. Darlene and Tom are responsive by e-mail and phone and conduct a meet and greet to make sure there are no behavioral issues and to answer any questions. They give you a list of things to help prepare for boarding so everything is quite organized. I felt good knowing they were very comprehensive with this set up. I don't trust my dog with just anyone but I wouldn't hesitate driving the 40 minutes it takes to get there. I would wholeheartedly recommend boarding your dog here.
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"Thank you for your complimentary review (Member name removed). We love Ollie and can't wait to see him again. We were really glad to see that he was so relaxed on his second stay. Ollie is so loving and cuddly and is already one of our favorite guests!."
Nanette B.
Aug 2013
My dog likes to have people around. Aunt Darlene and her husband do the dog service so there are 2 people looking out for my dog. My husband and I felt very good about using them. There was a meet and greet which my mom and I went to with our dog. Aunt Darlene and her husband were very professional and organzied. You can tell they take their business her serious and personal. When my husband dropped off our dog he was very impressed and said "Maggie will love it there."
We got back from vacation a little early and wanted to pick up our dog. Aunt Darlene worked it out for us so we could. I would highlt recommend Aunt Darlene Pet Sitting serives.
We got back from vacation a little early and wanted to pick up our dog. Aunt Darlene worked it out for us so we could. I would highlt recommend Aunt Darlene Pet Sitting serives.
Kathleen M.
Aug 2013
I have used Aunt Darlene's pet sitting service several times to care for my dog while I am away, and I would not use any other pet boarding facility. The dogs are never caged, get lots of attention and TLC, and there is a fenced yard with lots of grass for play time. Darlene and her husband Tom are clearly passionate about what they do, and provide superior service and care for their canine clients. I can go away knowing my dog is safe, secure and happy. I highly recommend Aunt Darlene's!
Vivian L.
Jul 2013
I have used Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting for several years to care for my four cats while away on vacation. She is wonderful. Totally professional in every way and takes excellent care of my cats. When I return from vacation, my cats are healthy and happy. Their litter boxes have been cleaned and changed and are as fresh as the day I left. She has even vacuumed and wiped down the kitchen counters!
Darlene also takes care of my plants while I am away. I am an avid gardener and have a large orchid collection. I leave a watering schedule for her and my plants look great when I return.
Darlene cares about the little things as well. Mail delivered, she brings it in. Note left in door by family or friend, she'll call because it might be important. AC shuts off because power goes out, she'll reset it. There are some many little things that she does that one would not expect that makes her service special and a cut above the others.
If you are looking for a pet sitter who is reliable, professional, caring and will go the extra step for you and your pets, I recommend Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting Service.
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"Thank you for the great review (member name removed). I love your cats and your flowers are incredible!! Regards, Darlene"
Simona A.
Jul 2013
My two doggie girls stay was awesome. My girls enjoyed staying with Darlene and loved to have their company and the other doggies in their home. It is great to have them in a loving home and not in cages. They came home without any adverse effects. Darlene fed them according to their schedule. They were able to lay on couches or chair in the home, just like they do at home. Will use them again when needed for overnight boarding. Very professional and accommodating.
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"Thank you [member name removed], We loved having the girls and look forward to their next stay. Darlene & Tom"
Mike P.
Jun 2013
The experience overall was positive. The pricing was reasonable and we didn't have any issues. She took good care of the dogs as far as we were concerned. It was $70 per day for two dogs. The only thing that I think was a little strange for us was that she only took cash which was okay but she collected it when we dropped the pets off as oppose to when we picked them up.
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"Hi [member name removed], Thank you for your positive review. We really appreciate it and enjoyed having Reese and Riley stay with us. We look forward to seeing them again soon. We wanted to take this opportunity to address your concerns with our cash only, pay at drop off policy. When we first started pet sitting we used to take checks. Unfortunately we had received a few bad checks in our first few months in business. The cost to collect the unpaid amount and the time it took, as well as the additional charges incurred when our checks didn't clear made it non-cost effective to take checks. Taking credit cards is another cost which if offered we would have to increase our prices. In order to keep our prices down, we have to keep our costs down. This is why cash only. The reason we take payment at drop off is to avoid those who use a facility like ours to abandon their dogs. We belong to several online forums for pet sitters, dog walkers and home boarding services like ours. There have been several stories about people dropping their dogs off at a person's home and never coming back. Fake names and addresses and phone numbers are used and after the person fails to show up to pick up their dog the boarding home owner has to find a home for the dog which can be very costly. So the boarding home owner not only has the cost of re-homing the abandoned dog, they also have not been paid for the days they cared for the dog. This type of situation can be very costly and can put a substantial financial burden on a small mom & pop business like ours. We hope you understand that our policies are created only out of necessity. Thank you for your feedback. We take your opinion very seriously and want to make sure you're 100% happy with our service. Regards, Darlene"
Candace R.
May 2013
Oscar stayed with Gino for 7 days during our Christmas vacation. The house was clean and there was ample room for the dogs to roam-both in the back yard and in the basement. The basement was lined with sofa's for "dog lounging". I picked up Oscar who looked healthy and happy. I liked the fact that the company limited the number of dogs to the boarder. I would definitely recommend Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting to anyone.
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"Thank you so much [member name removed] for the great review. We love our jobs and look forward to seeing Oscar the next time. Regards, Darlene"
Gilbert P.
Sep 2012
From the services above you can see all went well.
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"Thank you so much for your review [member name removed]. We really love our work and are glad you were happy. Please call us anytime you need us. Regards, Darlene"
Catherine B.
Jan 2012
It was the first time EVER that I have left my dog with a sitter. They run an amazing operation over there! The dogs are so well cared for, the house is immaculate and the dogs even have the whole downstairs to themselves. There are couches and recliners so if your dog isn't crated at home he/she isn't crated there either.I will use them again and again,whenever the need arises. They LOVE these animals....I've never seen anything like it. I've told them that they should have reality show!!! --
I knew I had made a great choice when I picked up Tucker the next morning - I asked how he did and they were completely honest...told me he cried at night but that it would be easier for him next time. They didn't have to tell me that...they could have said anything...How would I know?
I knew I had made a great choice when I picked up Tucker the next morning - I asked how he did and they were completely honest...told me he cried at night but that it would be easier for him next time. They didn't have to tell me that...they could have said anything...How would I know?
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"Thank you so much for the wonderful review. Please call us anytime you need boarding. Regards, Darlene"
Jillian G.
Sep 2011
Aunt Darlene's Petsitting is the best!! Very professional and cares about our pets like they are their own. We began using Aunt Darlene's a few years ago as an in-home petsitting option for our cats while on vacation. Darlene and Crystle (our petsitter) came over to visit our home, go over where everything was and meet the cats before-hand. We've used them 4-5 times already and, each time, Crystle does an excellent job taking care of our cats. If you are looking for a petsitter, try them out!
Response from Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
"Hi [removed member name], Thank you very much for your kind words. Crystle loved taking care of your kitties while you were away. Please let us know when you need pet sitting again. Regards, Darlene"
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FAQ
Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service is currently rated 4.9 overall out of 5.
Yes, Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service offers free project estimates.
No, Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service does not offer eco-friendly accreditations.
No, Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service does not offer a senior discount.
No, Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service does not offer emergency services.
No, Aunt Darlene's Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service does not offer warranties.