I cannot recommend Michelle and Brain highly enough. I have an older dog with special needs who cannot be left alone and who struggles deeply with separation anxiety. What my dog needs most is a steady, compassionate presence, and that is exactly what they provided. Not long after I dropped my dog off, Michele reached out to let me know that my dog was content, getting along well with her dog, and exploring her new surroundings. That early check-in brought me such a sense of relief. Later, she sent me a photo of my dog resting peacefully in her garden while she gardened nearby, which spoke volumes about how safe and settled my dog felt. Michele was incredibly patient, kind, and genuinely present. She snuggled with my dog on the couch, included her in daily activities (like “helping” in the garden), and it was sweet that she seemed to enjoy my dog’s company. That matters to me more than I can easily express. Having a dog with extra needs can come with a lot of worry about being a burden, and it was sweet to sense that it wasn’t that at all for them. It was also deeply reassuring that they have an older dog themselves. Michele truly understands the rhythms, sensitivities, and nervous systems of senior and special-needs dogs. When I picked my dog up, she was happy to see me and tired in the best way—but most importantly, she was calm and regulated. This tells me everything about the quality of care she received. This kind of support is immensely valuable. I would absolutely recommend Michele and Brian, especially to anyone with an older, anxious, or special-needs dog who needs more than basic sitting. Finding someone like this feels rare, and I would trust them with my dog again without hesitation.

Michele watched my dog, Robbie twice for me and I felt completely confident that he was well loved and taken care of while I was gone. She really enjoys animals and is good at attuning to their needs and making adjustments in their care as indicated. She has been a pet owner and so understands the ins and outs everyday pet management. Besides knowing that Robbie was safe while I was traveling, I knew that he was getting lots of exercise and attention as Michele enjoys including her animal friends in her adventures as she is also very active. Whenever Robbie sees Michele now he gets really excited and starts barking and howling with delight!