Blue Skies Pet Care is built on culture of dependability – and that starts with making sure we can access your home safely and consistently when your pets need us.
Over time, we’ve refined our approach to home access to keep that reliability strong while also keeping control in your hands as much as possible.
We typically recommend one of the following, in order of preference:
A. Two forms of code entry (such as a front door code, garage code, or lockbox code)
B. Access to a key lockbox that permanently stays on your property paired with a key as backup on file
In most cases, access is maintained at your home. This allows us to respond quickly without needing to coordinate key exchanges between visits.
Why we still recommend a backup
Even the most reliable systems can fail. Keypads and smart locks may stop working due to power outages, battery issues, or connectivity problems.
Having backup access on file helps ensure your pet’s care continues without interruption.
Lockboxes
If you don’t have code-based entry and only use keys or only have one code access point, a mechanical (non-battery) lockbox is a great option for keeping access securely on-site.
Compared to hiding a key:
- It’s more secure and less likely to be discovered
- It protects the key from weather damage
- It keeps access consistent for every visit
We recommend a lockbox that stays in a consistent, secure location rather than one that is frequently moved.
If you do move, remove, or update your lockbox or codes, just send us a quick message so we can keep everything current.
An image of a rolling code lockbox is below. Depending on the lockbox you purchase, it can be temporarily attached to a door handle or permanently affixed somewhere, like a tree or side of the house. We encourage a permanent lockbox solution in case you need care in an emergency.
Our At-the-Ready Key Program
For clients who choose to have us retain a key as a backup entry method, those keys are uniquely coded and securely stored between service periods through our At-the-Ready Key Program.
This allows us to step in quickly when needed – whether it’s a last-minute request or a situation where your usual access method isn’t working.
Why this system works
Keypads/Code-Entry do not work in a power outage, battery failure, or sometimes fail. This is why we request a backup key. We love using codes, but it is important to have a backup option.
Hidden keys are generally easily found, can rust and ruin if wet, and are sometimes moved without letting the pet sitter know. This is why we encourage clients to use a lockbox like the one pictured above if they prefer this method!
This setup is what allows many of our clients to feel confident relying on us for last-minute trips, late nights away, or unexpected schedule changes.
Lockout assistance
In addition, we offer paid lockout services for existing pet care clients. While we cannot always guarantee immediate availability, many clients have called on us when they’ve locked themselves out and benefited from this service!
How does Blue Skies Pet Care store keys securely?
Keys kept on file are:
- Tagged with a unique identifier (for example, “414-2”)
- Stored in a key cabinet between service periods
- Separated from personal information, which is kept in our password-protected online portal
Keys can always be returned at client request.
Thank you for trusting Blue Skies Pet Care with your pets and your home. Thoughtful access planning plays a big role in keeping care smooth, safe, and stress-free.
Sincerely,
Ashley
(post updated: 03/31/2026)
