I’d want to arrange a meet up so I can get a sense of how they react to me outside of a home before meeting them inside. I’d also like to know the basics of any walking training they may have, their exercise requirements (distance and speed) as well the gear (harness, collars, leashes) they are familiar with so I can be best prepare to walk them. If I’m caring for them in your home, I’d like to know where they have free access (indoor and outdoor), how much or what type of food or treats they typically get, a sense of how often they need potty breaks, and where they sleep. I have very little breed preference since I have experience with many, however I am much more comfortable working with small or medium dogs rather than large ones if there’s behavior issues such as biting, jumping, or inappropriate urination/defecation. I’m very familiar with breeds like bulldogs, pugs, boxers or others like them with short snouts and their specific care needs.

I typically walk my dog on CMU’s campus or Chippewaters Park/Viets woods area. If a dog is up for it, I’ve also got experience running with larger dogs for anywhere from 1-3 miles. Beyond that, I also am a member at Hannah’s Bark park where I could potentially take a dog if they meet all medical and behavioral requirements to play off leash or with other dogs.