5.0

First and foremost, I always follow the owner’s instructions as closely as possible. Whether that means sticking to a specific feeding schedule, respecting furniture rules, giving medication, or being mindful of allergies and health concerns. Before a stay begins, I always make sure I understand your dog’s usual routine, any special needs they have, and all their little likes and dislikes. I want their time with me to feel as familiar and comfortable as possible. During the day, I take dogs outside roughly every couple of hours, although this is always adjusted to the individual doggo and what they’re used to at home. For higher energy dogs, this includes their longer walks as well as shorter potty breaks in between. I also try to include some play, sniffing and stimulation throughout the day so they’re not just getting physical exercise, but are kept happy and engaged too. If your dog loves socialising and you’re comfortable with it, I’m happy to take them to places where they can meet and play with other dogs, or head out for a longer adventure to somewhere like Waterlow Park. Equally, if your dog is nervous around others, reactive, older, or simply prefers their own space, I’m more than happy to keep walks quieter and choose routes where they can relax. I never assume that what works for one dog will work for another. I’m also really attentive when it comes to food and water, especially as I know some dogs can eat or drink a little differently when they’re away from home. I’ve happily hand-fed doggos both of their meals when needed, following their owner’s instructions, so I’m definitely not afraid to put in a bit of extra effort if that’s what makes them comfortable and gets them eating! At home, there’s plenty of affection available for dogs who want it, whether that’s cuddles, scratchies or following me around the flat ☺️ At the same time, I completely respect dogs who prefer having their own space and will let them come to me when they’re comfortable. My flat is cosy, spacious and pet-friendly, with no other pets or children, so they can settle in without too much going on around them. I also know how reassuring updates can be when someone else is looking after your pet. I always send at least a morning and evening update, along with pictures from our walks, adventures or cosy moments at home. If you’re someone who likes more frequent updates, I’m very happy to send them throughout the day too ☺️ I’d much rather you feel completely comfortable and know your doggo is happy and being well looked after. After every stay, I do a proper deep clean before the next pup arrives. I disinfect the toys, wash and clean their sleeping areas and soft furnishings, and thoroughly clean the carpets and floors. I want every doggo coming through my door to have a space that feels fresh, clean and homely from the moment they arrive ☺️! I also only ever take on one household of dogs at a time. That means that if you have multiple pups, I’m more than happy to look after them all, but will not have dogs from other households at the same time to make sure I can provide personalized and focused care😁!

A typical day usually starts with a morning walk around 6AM. This is completely adjusted to your dog’s needs of course, but I usually aim for around 40-60 minutes for pups who enjoy a good morning walk! Once we’re back home, I tend to let the doggo rest and settle for a little while before breakfast, rather than feeding straight after exercise. While I do a bit of work, they’re free to nap, have a yak stick or chew (if allowed!), play with some toys, or just relax nearby. I find that most dogs are pretty happy to have a good snooze after their morning walk anyway ☺️ This downtime is also especially important on warmer days. After a couple of hours we’ll usually head out again, anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the pup and how much exercise they’re used to. I’m always prepared with a ball or another durable toy if they love to play. If they’re allowed off-lead and have good recall, we can have a proper run around and play fetch too! For social doggos, I’m also happy for them to make some puppy friends and have a play in the park, but only if their owner is comfortable with this. If they’re not a fan of other dogs, that’s absolutely fine too and we’ll do our own thing! Later in the day I’ll often head to Waterlow Park or go for a longer wander around one of the nearby parks. There’s plenty of opportunity for sniffing, exploring, chasing a ball or inspecting any interesting scents! Back home, I usually encourage some chill time before dinner. Whether that means cuddles and scratchies, playing with a toy or just having a nap nearby is completely up to them. I schedule our walks, longer playtime and any activity around their usual mealtime to make sure we avoid any risk of bloat or indigestion. I also have toys-galore at home! Squeaky toys, crinkly toys, rubber balls and chews, tug toys, puzzles and snuffle mats. I’ve accumulated quite the dog toy collection at this point! So even when we’re not out walking, there’s plenty for them to do. Of course, I always tailor everything to the dog in front of me. Some doggos could play and explore all day, while others are happiest having a little sniff around outside and then coming home for a cuddle and a very serious nap. I encourage whatever makes your pup the happiest!