Before caring for someone’s pet, I like to know as much as possible to keep them happy, healthy, and comfortable. This includes any medical conditions, recent injuries, medications, vaccination status, allergies, and the contact information for their vet or an emergency clinic. I also ask about feeding schedules, portion sizes, the type and brand of food, where it’s stored, and any treat preferences or restrictions, along with rules about table scraps or human food. For exercise and play, I like to know their walking schedule, preferred routes, off-leash rules, recall reliability, and favorite toys or games, as well as their general play style. Understanding a pet’s behavior is important too, so I ask about their comfort level with strangers, kids, or other animals, along with any quirks, fears, or triggers like loud noises or delivery drivers. I find out how they signal they need to go outside, whether they experience separation anxiety, and what training cues they respond to. I also ask about household rules, such as which areas they’re allowed in, whether they use a crate, their bedtime routine, and for cats, where the litter box is and how often it’s cleaned. Finally, I love learning little details that help us bond like their favorite spots for scratches, words or phrases they respond to, and any quirky rituals they enjoy, such as morning cuddles or evening zoomies.

I make sure pets in my care get plenty of fun, love, and stimulation throughout the day. Depending on their personality and needs, that might mean long walks, backyard playtime, fetch, or tug-of-war. For more relaxed companions, we enjoy gentle brushing, belly rubs, and cozy nap time together. I also like to add enrichment activities like puzzle toys, & treat hide-and-seek. Of course, there’s always lots of praise and cuddles, if wanted.