Doggy Day Care in Melrose

“I initially wanted to hire her to walk Koda twice daily. I’m glad she suggested he go to her place for doggy day care. I can tell he is having a blast. The family is very friendly. They’ve just earned a regular customer.”

Vernon M.

About: It’s been called ‘Dog camp!’ Longtime family pet owner, multi-dog owner and trained for elder rescue dog care to recovery and puppy-care. The forest preserve is mostly fenced. Several paths run all through the property for dogs and humans to enjoy as a giant dog park. We do these long trail pack walks morning and evening, going out several times during the day, followed by TREATS for potties with good behaviors reinforced. Come play with us including the doggie pool parties! We (Dogs and I) work from home. Morning, afternoon and evening walks around the property are very common, of course with treats! Dogs can hang in the office, living room or outdoors in the yard and driveway watching the birds. Crows we feed protect them. Multiple dog beds allow movement and rest all over let alone covered furniture. Tile floors and throw rugs, but your dog MUST be potty trained. Water bowls are in each room. There is a front window doggie day bed with trundle to monitor all the goings’ on of the front part of the property providing endless hours of fun, cool and warm window watching. A Mostly fenced property and two small, older friendly, active dogs keep everyone company. Feedings are usually 2x a day morning and evening with treats in-between after all have gone out several times, and right before bed. Water is in each room. Toys are around and chuck-its with balls outside. When it’s really hot the puppy pool comes out. The playtime of yard and paths with walks to rest time is common. We don't have crates, but feel free to bring the dog's own bed, blanket and bowls to make them feel comfortable. NO un-house trained dogs or recent rescues will be accepted. We further have a pitbulls policy.

“Our pup got A+ care with Kimberly. She was also very communicative throughout our dog's visit and sent us cute pictures showing how much fun she was having. Highly recommend!!”

Stacy G.

“Koko had an amazing time with Nina and the crew at day camp. She came home tired and happy. Nina was professional and fantastic. I will be a repeat customer.”

Shekia S.

“This is Alexander and Josephine’s second time watching Merlin and I am so appreciative of them. They allowed me to drop him off relatively early in the morning, sent plenty of photos and videos throughout the day, and made sure he was fed before I picked him up. Merlin absolutely loves staying with them, as evident by his whining and excitement when we arrived outside their home. Whenever they’re available, they are my #1 choice for watching Merlin.”

Marquia W.

“Yesenia did awesome with Scooby! She was very caring with him and understood his needs. She also took plentiful of him and updated us. Definitely will book her again!”

Brenda L.

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.

“Cannot say enough good things about Lesly and Josh! They took such special care of my Lily. They were able to work with me and be flexible when I was stuck at work and couldn’t collect her right away. You can tell they truly care about the babies in their care ♥️”

Kasey F.

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

Mackenzie S.

“She took amazing care of our puppy!!! She was great with communication …Highly recommend her and will use again ☺️”

Jamie F.

About: I have had plenty of dogs since I was a little kid big and small. My passion is to be a vet in a few years. I’m trying to make money to go to veterinarian school. I absolutely love animals. Any kind. I am working part time with my own schedule so I will have time for your pets to play and walk ! Your pets are welcome to stay! I do not have a fenced in yard, but I am an active person and will love to run and walk with them. I have a dog of my own and she is super sweet she just wants to make friends. And if your dog doesn’t like other dogs I can make that work too.

“Nicole was amazing! She was extremely polite and wonderful with my dogs. I received updates and pictures the whole time; you can tell she has a genuine love of animals. I will not hesitate to use her in the future!”

Kelly G.

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 🙂

“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.

About: Hi! My name is Teagan and I am a certified veterinary assistant. I have grown up being around dogs and cats of all ages and size. I have experience fostering bottle babies as well as older dogs and cats. I can administer oral medication as well as intravenous medications. I am currently a student at the University of Florida. I have a very flexible schedule that allows me to ensure that your fur babies are getting the care they deserve. I offer drop in visits as well as dog walk services and services in my own home. I will ensure your fur babies are well taken care of. I will follow your care instructions.

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: Hi Everyone, My name is Penny and thank you for considering me as your Pet Caregiver. I have had pets (mostly dogs) in my life since a very young child. The unconditional love they provide always makes my heart smile and I will always care for your fur babies as if they are my own :) I have spent the last 20 years caring for my own 4 very special dogs and unfortunately it came time for them to cross the rainbow bridge due to age. I miss caring for them and would love to now spend my time assisting you in caring for your Fur Baby. I have had the pleasure of caring for my neighbors animals (including chickens) while they have traveled and can provide references upon request. I look forward to meeting with you and your beloved pets 🐾 I am currently a caretaker for an elderly post surgical neighbor and have a lot of free time most days. I would love the opportunity to care for your dog or cat when you are unable to be at home for them :) I am trustworthy and reliable to take care of your precious fur babies on my down time. I will follow all of your instructions and give them all the love they need while you are away.

“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 have owned cats and dogs all of my life and can't imagine my home without them. Animals give us unconditional love, and they deserve the same in return. I have given IV treatments to ailing cats with kidney damage and experience with dispersing meds/pills by mouth. I will treat all your loved ones with the same care that I provide my own. I am retired; I work independently from home and have a lot of free time. I am looking for some fur babies to take care of so their guardians can feel comfortable leaving them. I will treat all dogs and cats like my own and I take their care very serious. If that means sending daily videos or pictures to their guardians to put them at ease, I am happy to do just that. I am happy to feed, water and clean pet areas as part of my home visits. I will scoop litter boxes as well. I take their health seriously and fresh water/food is a very important part of staying healthy. I find no ask unreasonable and will check in with pet parents as often as requested.

About: I’ve taken care of dogs and cats for the last 18 years, since I was six years old! I understand that pets are members of the family, and I will treat your pets with care and compassion! I can walk, run, play or do whatever is necessary to make your pets happy! I work from home with flexibility, so I am available at most hours of the day to walk. In the evenings, I am free whenever for home stays. I can care for pets in my clients homes. There is a potential they can stay in my home for short stays as well, which is in a peaceful, residential neighborhood.