Doggy Day Care in Island Grove

“Toby was so happy; he appeared as though he had a full day. Noah was so kind and understanding as he responded diligently to my abundant text messages. But, most important of all, Toby interacted positively with a cat for the first time. Thank you, Noah!”

Nina M.

About: ☀️ Summer Safety Advisory ☀️ Due to Florida’s extreme heat and humidity, dogs are at serious risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke in as little as 10–15 minutes of exertion during peak sun hours. Because of this, all walks during late spring through early fall may be shortened or adjusted for safety and replaced with enrichment-based activities, shaded sniff time, or indoor play when appropriate. Your dog’s health and comfort always come first. 🐾 Pet Care Experience I provide thoughtful, enrichment-focused care that’s tailored to each pet’s individual needs, energy level, and comfort. My goal is not just to “get through” a visit, but to make sure your pet feels safe, understood, and well cared for while you’re away. I have a background in wildlife sanctuary rehabilitation and have served as an adoptions director, which means I’ve worked hands-on with animals of all temperaments, ages, and medical needs. I’m comfortable administering medications ( just not injections), managing multi-pet households, and supporting shy, anxious, senior, or special-needs pets. My approach to pet care is informed by ongoing education in dog behavior, body language, and force-free, reward-based training. I pay close attention to stress signals, pacing, and environment, and I adjust each visit accordingly. Whether your dog needs structured activity, calm companionship, or space to decompress, I aim to meet them where they are. 🦴 Bonus Enrichment Option I also manage one of Gainesville’s top-rated private Sniffspots, The Zoomie Zone, located in Midtown. This fully private, reservation-only yard is ideal for dogs who benefit from off-leash play without the pressure of public dog parks. Many clients choose to incorporate Sniffspot visits into walks or drop-ins as a way to provide safe zoomies, sniff-based enrichment, or low-distraction decompression time. If you’re interested in adding a Sniffspot visit to your booking, feel free to ask. Returning clients can also receive discount codes for independent bookings. Whether we’re heading out for a structured walk, enjoying shaded sniff time, or keeping things low-key indoors, I focus on providing calm, attentive, and reliable care you can trust. 🗓️ Schedule and Booking Process To make sure every booking is safe, smooth, and a good fit, I require a free 15 minute meet and greet for all new clients. This takes place at the location where care will happen and helps ensure your pet’s comfort, safety, and compatibility with my services. -Exceptions Cats and puppies under 5 months do not require a meet and greet -Returning clients can fast track bookings Please schedule your meet and greet at least 72 hours before your first requested booking so we have time to coordinate properly. After your initial meet and greet, you are all set for future bookings. If you move to a new home or apartment, you are welcome to schedule another meet and greet so I can learn the new setup. 🚶‍♀️ Dog Walks and Drop Ins I batch dog walks and cat drop in visits into efficient routes using flexible time windows. This allows me to reduce travel time while still providing thoughtful, attentive care. Dog care windows Standard visits typically occur between 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM Morning visits may begin as early as 8:00 AM Evening visits are available for dogs who need extra flexibility Cat care Preferred visit window is 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM If medications or strict timing are required, I adjust visits to meet those needs Dogs are typically prioritized earlier in the day due to restroom needs, but all pets receive the same level of care and attention. 🐾 Premium Boarding Boarding is a high end, in home service designed for clients who want a fully hands off experience. At this time, boarding is available only to dogs who already have an established walk or drop in routine with me. This helps ensure your dog is comfortable with my home, routine, and resident pets. While boarding with me, your dog will -Live in home as part of the household -Be the only boarding guest, receiving one on one attention -Receive daily enrichment and engagement -Enjoy supervised access to my private Sniffspot for play, sniffing, and decompression -Enrichment may include -Food puzzles such as West Paw Toppl meals -Nature walks or hikes in San Felasco, weather permitting -Field trips to quiet recreational fields when no other animals are present -Most dogs return home happy, fulfilled, and ready to nap. 🚨 Behavior Expectations and Safety The safety of my personal pets is a top priority. Dogs boarding with me must be comfortable around cats and respectful toward my personal dog. If a dog shows aggression toward any resident pets, boarding may be ended immediately. In these cases, care will be converted to drop in visits at your home for feeding, potty breaks, and companionship. 🚗 Premium Pick Up and Drop Off For added convenience, I offer a luxury pet transport add on. I can personally pick up and drop off your dog along my daily walking route No handoffs needed, simply leave your dog at home This service is priced to reflect the time, travel, and personalized care involved ⛔ Important Booking Policies -One free meet and greet is included for new clients -Additional meet ups should be booked as a walk or drop in to cover time and travel -All pets must be listed on your Rover profile prior to booking -You have 48 hours after the meet and greet to confirm your booking before the time slot may be released -House Sitting and Drop In services follow a 7 day cancellation policy If you have questions or special circumstances, I’m always happy to talk things through. In my home, pets and plants are family, and every animal in my care is treated with the same level of respect and attention. I understand that each pet has their own personality and needs. Some thrive on companionship, others prefer play, structure, or quiet encouragement. My goal is to be a steady, calm presence your pet can rely on while you’re away. Whether I’m caring for your pet in your home or hosting them for a field trip at The Zoomie Zone, I focus on creating a safe, enriching, and low stress environment that supports both physical and emotional wellbeing. During each visit, you’ll receive a detailed update through the Rover Card, including notes on meals, potty breaks, mood, and anything noteworthy from our time together. Occasionally, if your pet gives me a particularly great moment, I may also send a favorite edited photo directly. Unless something truly needs your attention, I won’t interrupt your vacation, work trip, or conference. I aim to be both your pet’s advocate and your peace of mind while you’re away. Safety is always my top priority for both your pet and myself. If a pet displays aggression, severe anxiety, or behavior that creates an unsafe situation, I will still ensure their basic needs are met, including food, water, and potty breaks. However, I may shorten a visit to avoid escalating stress. This policy is in place out of care and caution for everyone involved. 🛏️ Crate and Confinement Requirement for Boarding For boarding stays, dogs must be comfortable with crate use or confinement behind a baby gate or similar barrier. This is a non-negotiable requirement. At night and during times when dogs are not being actively supervised, boarding dogs are safely confined. This allows my personal pets appropriate rest and space, and ensures all dogs remain safe when I am asleep or briefly out of the house. Crates or gated areas are used as calm, neutral spaces rather than punishment. If your dog typically uses a crate, pen, or gated area at home, please let me know their routine so I can keep things as familiar and low stress as possible. If a dog is not currently comfortable with any form of safe confinement, boarding may not be the right fit at this time. I’m always happy to discuss alternatives or help determine whether a gradual transition would be appropriate.

“my usual doggy sitter ended up being out of town today, in a panic I needed someone and I couldn't have picked a better person. Lorraine responded right away to my last minute booking (only 12 hours notice) she provided multiple videos throughout the stay today which made me feel even more comfortable dropping my fur baby off. I 100% recommend and will be happy to use her in the future when needed.”

Katie W.

About: Hello, I am an animal lover of all kinds. I have always had a dog and cat among other pets in my life, whether by others or my own. In the past I volunteered as a fur baby foster parent and was fur mommy to a beautiful girl "Chula" 🐶 we adopted in 2000 and sadly after 17 years got her wings. My family and I always include our fur babies in everything, at holidays, sometimes it seemed to be more dogs 🐶 of all sizes then people 😊. I want to help you feel at ease and have piece of mind when you are away by providing the utmost respect, fun and care for an important member of the family☺️ I can provide a loving and warm inviroment with 3 arces fully fenced yard. I have cared for chickens, pot belly pigs, birds am always ready to try more 😁 My schedule allows for plenty of time for cuddles, furbaby love, feeding, walks, outside time, potty time and entertaining, or just lounging hanging out 🙂 I offer the utmost respect to others and fur babies! They will receive love and feel at home and most importantly do everything I can for you and your fur baby to be comfortable. We have 3 acres fully fenced in, so plenty of room to let out energy and playtime 🙂

“Kimberly is amazing. She has gone above and beyond for us continually, and she always tries to accommodate us whenever she can. I have had issues with my schedule on a few occasions as of late, and she has been flexible and so helpful when I've had to make adjustments. We miss her when she is out of town! Our dogs, particularly, LOVE her. I wish I could give her more stars.”

Micki L.

“Laquitta and James have been our "go to" Rover for several trips now. We like to refer to our fur baby as a velcro dog because she sticks so close to us. But it also means there aren't many Rovers she's happy about visiting. Laquitta and James are the exception. Though she's always happy to see us at the end of her stay, she loves hanging with Laquitta and James and their little fur babies.”

Van T.

About: I have over 20 years of experience in pet care both professional and personal combined! Everything from small animal care to equine care. I have spent the last 15+ years working in doggy day care and boarding facilities and have worked with all types of temperaments and behavioral concerns. During this time I have been able to determine which things work best and which things don’t which helps me care for your pups with full confidence! I also have a degree in Veterinary Technology (Vet Tech) which helps build confidence in people for me to properly care for their pets and handle emergency situations with the proper attention. I also gained a wealth of knowledge on how to care for pets with medical conditions and senior care. I have a near full acre of land which is all fenced in for full roaming and fun! I also have a pool which is available for your pup if they love to swim! Boarding dogs will have their own designated area that is climate controlled and separate from any others who may be spending the night so they feel safe and comfortable for their entire stay! Pick up and drop off services available within 10 miles. Basic grooming (shampoo, conditioner, brush, blow dry and nail trims) available. I do have 3 dogs of my own as well on the property but only 1 of them will be mingling with yours and helping them feel at home! ***if your dog does not do well with other dogs, please do not hesitate to reach out as I may still be able to accommodate them for an additional charge as this will require more individualized care*** Because this is a residential property, in an effort to be good neighbors and provide the best possible stay for your pup, if they exhibit any of these behaviors, our property may not be the best fit for them! -Can jump a 4ft fence -Barks excessively -Digs excessively -Escapes fences, crates or other barriers -Has barrier frustration/aggression with neighboring animals This is all I do so I am always home and will have plenty of time to spend with your babies and ensure they are well exercised and are provided with plenty of individualized care and all the fun imaginable! I will follow your standard routine to keep your babies comfortable and in a setting they are most comfortable with! I follow directions very well and am able to make adjustments where I see fit. Daycare and boarding dogs will have the ability to roam the property and play in a very small group, never more than 4 dogs will ever be on the property and all dogs must pass a meet and greet process to participate! Boarding dogs will be enjoying their own designated areas for bedtime and midday naps which is climate controlled and private for their safety and comfort during their entire stay!

About: Where you can trust your fur baby is happy safe and well taken care of for the time period you need. I am all about taking care of your beloved baby just as if your baby was home with you. I provide the meals exercise, cuddles baths, and lots of love while you are away. your baby's routine will be kept the same as if your baby was home with you. Personalized attention for all guests includes minimum 3 complimentary walks per day for each of my guests. Plenty of supervised outdoor play time. Beautiful quiet country location. Baths are offered no extra fees. I AM on site. Open 7 days a week 9 am until 9 pm. After hours pickups/drop-offs available with prior arrangement. No hidden costs. Cats have there own area and play area that won't be disturbed by any dog visiting with Me bird area secluded from dogs and cats. i am home all the time except maybe a store visit that is down the road a mile so i am always around my home however i provide all the love and play your fur baby will need i am always home fenced in yard and the baby’s are taken care of like they are at home with you and go by your schudule like normal

About: I take Dog services very seriously and take great care of any pet that is under my care. I can provide basic care for your dogs, dog-walking, dog-grooming, or even go to your home and provide basic services for your pets. My home consists of my wife, my son and 2 daughter's, and 3 dogs, which can be seperate from your pets for safety and care. If you have any special requests or extra care needed for your dogs please feel free to let me know how I can accommodate for you. Visit my website for more information (Lovatosk9training) I groom many dogs and can trim, clean ear, brush teeth, trim nails and moisturize their paws. I do dog socialization, if you want your dog to meet another dog and be more socialized, Also I do basic dog obedience training as well as other training as needed. If you need any other services please let me know so we can accomodate. Visit my website for more information (Lovatosk9training) We are located in a mobile home so we have no at home field, however I take the dogs on walks around here anywhere from 0.5 mile to 3 miles or even bike runs if they need. Some dogs require alot more exercise and we can accommodate that if needed. I have an outdoor storage area that I have turned into a dog grooming area, it is climate controlled and maintained daily for cleanliness. Visit my website for more information (Lovatosk9training)

About: *Hablo español* I've had pets all my life. They're part of my family. Responsability, love, attention and fun are part of our care. I love spend time with my four-legged friends. I'm currently non working mom. I spend most of my time at home. I have plenty of free time during the day or overnight to care your pet including on weekends. I live in a quiet and pet friendly neighborhood. I have a spacious fence yard and one friendly Standard Goldendoodle who likes to play with other dogs. Your pet will always safe in my house and would sleep in his cage in my living room.

“Kim was wonderful with Forrest! Great communication and caring. 100% recommend. Location was super easy to find and drop off and pick up was quick and easy. Thank you!”

Paula G.

About: Experienced in most breeds and love to pamper and adore your pet! I will spend time with them and make sure they enjoy themselves while you are away! I am a current graduate student at the University of Florida, therefore I have a flexible schedule and availability to be with your beloved pet longer than most! I understand that pets are a precious part of the family. They deserve love and attention even when you're away. I will be happy to care for them!

About: Dogs have always been a big part of my life. I have years of hands-on experience caring for them and truly enjoy spending time with them. I provide patient, loving care and make sure every dog feels safe, comfortable, and happy. I currently work from home, so I have plenty of time to care for and play with your pups. I’m available for boarding seven days a week. I have a good- sized fenced yard and a friendly medium-sized dog to keep your fur baby company. I can also crate your dog if needed.

“Cosmo was well taken care of. Jon sent me updates daily. Would recommend!”

Mackenzie S.

“Paola watched my dog for two days while I was at work, and it was a great experience. On the second day I dropped Angel off, she ran to Paola and jumped up with joy, which said everything. Paola was responsive, reliable, and clearly caring. She also sent updates throughout the day, which put my mind at ease and let me know Angel was doing great.”

Carolyn C.

“Sarah was very responsive when coordinating drop off and pickup for our daycare. Our pup came home both days completely wiped out from all of the activity (in a good way). I would definitely book Sarah again if we need daycare in the future!”

Sarah F.

About: I’ve always had pets growing up. Sometimes up to 5 dogs at a time and horses too! So I have lots of experience with animals of various sizes. From chihuahuas and cocker spaniels to German Shepherds and poodles. I currently own a very friendly sterilized full sized golden doodle. He loves all dogs, humans and human puppies and he is down to play non-stop or nap all afternoon. Either one is fine with him. My dog is up to date on vaccines and flea + tick medication. I live in a house on .25 acres with 6ft fenced back yard. Large couch with pup-covers. Kiddie pool available for those who like to swim. Whether your pup is staying with me, or we are going on a walk, they are sure to have fun and I will spoil them just as I would my own! Looking forward to meeting your furry friend! I’m home most of the day. Lots of time for pets and walks. Happy to adapt my schedule to your pups needs. Let me know what the ideal day looks like for them. I have a 1/4 acre yard with a 6ft privacy fence. I also have a large doggie door where my pup can go in and out when they please.

About: I believe in taking care of any furry family member, whether they are puppies or older puppies. I am a mother to a beautiful Rottweiler, a long haired dachshund and a Morkie who I love with all my heart. I believe in keeping the parents involved in all the aspect of the dog sitting keeping them informed and making sure they know their family members little tail is always wagging - I make sure to keep constant communication with pawrents so you guys never miss a second of their day. I love to go on walks with them and take them to the parks and if we so happen to get dirty playing outside I make sure that they come back home clean and fresh. I love to make doggies smile and happy. I have no concern with large breed dogs and small breed as well so truly no dog turned away. I work with rover full time and go to school as well, on my off days I like to keep active taking my own dogs for walks and I figured people as busy as I am could use the help as well so I would love to be able to assist with taking your doggies out too! As mentioned before I like to keep the pawrents up to date as I am taking care of the doggies! I make sure I have a list of all medications needed, any dietary restrictions, their own day to day schedule with feeding and bathroom breaks so it does not disturb their schedule. I offer at home care, boarding, walks, and drop ins to make it as convenient for your family as possible!

“I recently needed a last minute dog sitter for my two high energy pups while I was away for a day, and I couldn’t be happier with the service I received from Brenda. From the very first meeting, she was warm, professional, and genuinely cared about my dogs’ well-being. She gave me a walk through of her home and showed me where the pups would be and how they have plenty of backyard space with shade to run around and play. She sent the most amazing pictures of my pups playing and swimming, which put my mind completely at ease. My dogs looked happy, well-exercised, which they need as a high energy breed. If you’re looking for someone trustworthy, loving, and truly attentive with your fur babies, I highly recommend Brenda.”

Angela R.

About: I treat every pet like they’re my own because I know how much they mean to you. I don’t just “watch” animals I take the time to learn their routine, personality, and little quirks so they feel comfortable, safe, and genuinely cared for while you’re away. I’ve worked with both puppies and senior pets, so I understand how different their needs can be. Whether it’s helping reinforce potty training and leash habits for younger dogs, or giving extra patience, gentle care, and medication support for older pets, I adjust to what your pet needs. You’ll never be left wondering how things are going. I send regular updates and photos so you can relax knowing your pet is happy and in good hands. At the end of the day, my goal is simple: Give your pet a stress free, loving experience and give you total peace of mind. Throughout the week, I stay flexible so I can accommodate different routines, whether it’s early morning visits, evening checkins, or multiple visits per day. I also build in time for updates, so pet owners always know how their pet is doing. Since I genuinely enjoy spending time with animals, it’s not just a task, it’s something I look forward to, making it easy to give each pet the care and attention they deserve. I provide care based on what makes each pet most comfortable, whether that’s in my home or yours. In a client’s home, I stick closely to your pet’s normal routine feeding, litter box cleaning, playtime, and quiet companionship, so they feel safe in their own space. I’m respectful of your home and keep everything clean and consistent.