Before watching someone’s pets, I make sure to gather important details to keep them safe, comfortable, and happy. I always ask about their daily routine, including feeding schedules, portion sizes, and any dietary restrictions. It’s also important to understand their personality and behavior, like if they have anxiety triggers, favorite activities, or specific quirks. I make sure to get any medical information, such as allergies, medications, or existing health conditions that need attention. Knowing their training and habits is also key—whether they’re house-trained, familiar with basic commands, or have any household rules they follow. I also ask for emergency contacts, including their vet’s information, just in case something unexpected happens. Lastly, I like to know how they interact with other pets and people, so I can make sure they feel comfortable and safe in any environment.

When I watch pets, I love to engage them in activities that match their energy and personality. For dogs, I enjoy taking them on long walks, playing fetch, or even doing a fun “sniffari” to let them explore new scents. If they like car rides, I might take them to a dog-friendly park for a little adventure. With cats, I like interactive play using feather wands or laser pointers, and I also set up fun hiding spots or climbing areas with boxes and blankets to keep them entertained. For small pets like rabbits or guinea pigs, I create enrichment activities like tunnels, treat-finding games, or supervised free-roaming time in a safe space. If I’m caring for birds, I’ll whistle or sing with them, give them time outside their cage (if safe), or even teach them little tricks using positive reinforcement. No matter the pet, I always make sure they’re happy, engaged, and well cared for while they’re with me!