Safety and attentive supervision are priorities in our home. Between my husband and me, our dogs are never left home without one of us present, and I maintain that same standard of supervision for pets entrusted to my care. I would not leave a pet unattended while I am responsible for their care. We have a fully fenced backyard and maintain a clean, organized, and uncluttered home and outdoor environment. With a five-month-old puppy of our own, our home is consistently kept pet-safe, with unsafe or inappropriate items secured and inaccessible. I am also careful and deliberate when managing interactions between animals and never assume unfamiliar dogs can simply be left together unsupervised. Introductions, outdoor access, feeding, and shared spaces are appropriately supervised, with the safety and comfort of each individual pet remaining the priority. When caring for pets in a client’s home, I maintain the same standard of supervision, respect for their environment, and attention to safety.

Our days generally begin outside, where the dogs can get some fresh air, stretch their legs, explore the yard, and enjoy some morning play before breakfast. With a four-year-old and a five-month-old Basset Hound of our own, we certainly appreciate a relaxed morning—but activities are always adjusted to each dog’s individual energy level, age, physical abilities, and preferences. Throughout the day, I like to incorporate a combination of physical activity, play, rest, and mental enrichment. This may include neighborhood walks, playing outside, trips to the park or local trails when appropriate, and sensory or foraging activities that encourage dogs to use their natural problem-solving and scenting abilities. I frequently create enrichment games for my own dogs using treats, puzzles, boxes, and other safe activities that give them something interesting to investigate and figure out. There is plenty of downtime as well. Our dogs are particularly fond of an afternoon movie and a comfortable place on the couch, so quieter dogs are certainly welcome to join them. Ultimately, there isn’t a rigid itinerary—I prefer to structure the day around the individual dog. Whether they enjoy long walks and plenty of activity or would rather explore the yard, play for a while, and settle in for a nap, I want their time here to feel comfortable, engaging, and familiar.