We live in a beautiful community by the bay with plenty of places for dogs to have a blast exploring the peaceful sights and sounds of this magnificent ecosystem we have. For dogs that can handle it, a client favorite is to take them on 4 mile walk to a dog friendly beach and back. That is just one of the many wonderful adventures in walking distance of our home. For smaller dogs, we love to take them on a much shorter walk to the bluff that overlooks the bay with plenty of space to run around and take in the peaceful sights and smells. Most of the time, our own kitties also love to join us on this walk. If boarding, we generally feed them first thing in the morning and go on some adventures, come home and get some water, rest, relax to some DogTV meant to either calm, relax, or stimulate a dog’s (or cat’s!) nervous system. I have found this has worked wonders for their mental state and creates a very peaceful environment. Then, we go on more adventures before dinner and bed, which makes for very tired, happy animals! Please leave written instructions and do not be afraid to leave as much detail as possible. Meet and greets: I do not proceed with new client bookings without first conducting a complimentary meet and greet. This is important for the trust and safety of all and also required by insurance. At the meet and greet, each party can determine if we are a good fit, develop rapport, go over all specific individual care needs, etc. Then, when I see your sweet pet when you are away, we will be well prepared, relaxed and already friends! Key security and home access: For optimal security and peace of mind for both pet parent and caregiver, it is highly recommended that pet parents keep their keys on their personal property at all times with the use of a lockbox or have the caregiver utilize their keyless door access code, if they have one. PLEASE include all access codes under the care instructions section in your profile. If you message them, it can make it extremely difficult and time consuming to find them when needed, as each stay has its own thread. If this is not possible, a hide-a-key is recommended. If you prefer me to retain your key, a $12 pick up and $12 drop off fee will be charged - $24 total for both. This covers the time and gas required, as well as the system created to ensure 100% of all retained keys are absolutely never lost, stolen, or damaged. Always leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor, if possible, as well. Never have your caregiver lock keys in the home after the last visit. If you are delayed before you return, a caregiver will need access again to your pets. Delays like this happen quite frequently, so please do not take this chance.