Before caring for someone’s pet, it’s really important to gather detailed information so the animal feels safe, comfortable, and stress-free while in your care. Here are the key things you should always know ahead of time: 🐾 Basic Information • Pet’s name, age, breed, and gender • Personality (shy, energetic, anxious, friendly, territorial) • How they behave around strangers, children, and other animals 🍽️ Feeding & Diet • Exact feeding schedule (times and portion sizes) • Type of food and treats allowed • Any allergies or food sensitivities • Foods that are strictly forbidden • Where food and supplies are kept 💊 Health & Medical Needs • Any medical conditions or past injuries • Medications (dosage, time, and how to administer) • Vet name, address, and phone number • Pet insurance details if applicable • Emergency contact and preferred emergency vet • Vaccination status 🚶 Exercise & Routine • Daily walk schedule and exercise needs • Favourite toys and activities • Energy level (high-energy vs calm) • Toilet routine and signals they use when they need to go 🛏️ Comfort & Behaviour • Sleeping routine and where they sleep • Fears or triggers (loud noises, other dogs, being alone) • Signs of stress or anxiety to watch for • Commands they understand • Any behavioural issues (chewing, barking, aggression, escape attempts) 🏡 Home & Safety • House rules (allowed on furniture or not) • Areas that are off limits • Where cleaning supplies, leads, litter, etc. are kept • Security details (locks, alarms, garden gates) • How long they can safely be left alone ❤️ Extra Personal Touches • Favourite games and activities • Things that comfort them when anxious • Special routines they love (bedtime cuddles, certain walking routes) Knowing all of this in advance helps you provide professional, loving care and keeps both the pet and owner feeling confident and relaxed.

A typical day caring for pets is full of energy, routine, and lots of love. The morning usually starts early with feeding time. Each pet has its own routine, so I make sure every animal gets the right food, fresh water, and any medication if needed. After breakfast, we head out for a refreshing walk or play session to burn off that morning energy. Dogs enjoy exploring the outdoors, while indoor pets like cats get interactive play to keep them stimulated. Midday is all about enrichment and comfort. This might include grooming, brushing, or simply spending quiet time with the pets so they feel relaxed and secure. I also keep their spaces clean and organized, making sure beds, litter trays, and play areas are fresh and comfortable. In the afternoon, the fun really begins. Activities vary depending on each pet’s personality and needs. Some of the fun things we might do include: • Interactive games like fetch, tug-of-war, or puzzle toys to stimulate their minds • Training and tricks to build confidence and strengthen communication • Outdoor adventures such as park walks, nature trails, or supervised garden play • Social time with cuddles, belly rubs, and gentle bonding moments • Creative play like obstacle courses, scent games, or hide-and-seek with treats Evening routines are calm and comforting. After dinner, pets enjoy a slower pace with relaxing walks, quiet play, or simply resting together. Before the day ends, I make sure every pet is settled, safe, and happy, with plenty of affection so they feel loved and secure. Every day is different, but the goal is always the same: happy, healthy pets who feel cared for, entertained, and at home.