Michael W.
Michael W.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Your Dog, Our Home .
Dogs have been part of my life for almost as long as I can remember. I grew up with dogs, and my parents bred and showed Dobermans, so I was surrounded from an early age by thoughtful, consistent dog care and training. With only a few gaps during college and early adulthood, I've had a dog by my side throughout my entire life. I'm currently a dog owner myself, and my dog is very much part of my everyday life. That's also how I approach boarding. Rather than caring for a large group of dogs, I prefer to host one guest at a time so they can settle into our household and receive plenty of individual attention, companionship, walks, play, and affection. I'm home much of the day, so a visiting dog isn't routinely left alone for long stretches. I believe dogs respond best to patience, consistency, clear boundaries, positive interaction, and lots of affection. I also know every dog has its own personality, habits, and comfort level, so I want to learn what makes your dog feel safe and at home. My goal is simple: while you're away, your dog gets to live as a beloved member of the household rather than feeling like they're being sent away to boarding.
Qualifications
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I work primarily from home, and my own dog is already my near-constant companion, so caring for another dog fits very naturally into my daily life. When I board a dog, my intention is for them to join our household and our routine rather than spend long stretches of the day alone. That means plenty of companionship, regular walks and outdoor time, play, relaxation, and, when it's appropriate for the individual dog, coming along with us on dog-friendly outings. I take my own dog with me frequently and am happy to do the same with a guest who enjoys it. Most importantly, I adjust the routine to the dog. Some dogs love being out and about; others are happiest relaxing somewhere familiar and quiet. During their stay, I pay attention to what makes them comfortable and adapt accordingly. I want each dog in my care to feel safe, included, and genuinely at home while their family is away.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
Safety starts with making sure a dog is a good fit for our home. Before a first stay, I prefer to meet with you and your dog and introduce them to my dog so we can make sure everyone is comfortable together. I strive to understand your dog's normal routine, personality, feeding and walking schedule, house rules, medications or special needs, and anything that makes them anxious, excited, or especially happy. I follow your instructions and try to keep familiar routines consistent while adapting to what I observe during the stay. I host only one guest dog at a time, which allows me to give them plenty of individual attention and closely monitor how they're settling in. I use leashes and secure handling outdoors, keep food and other potential sources of conflict managed carefully, and never assume that two dogs who get along well don't still need thoughtful supervision. Most importantly, I pay attention. Dogs communicate constantly through their behavior, and I want to notice when a guest is relaxed, uncomfortable, tired, excited, or needs something different. My goal is to provide a safe, calm home where your dog can become part of the family while they're in my care.
