5.0

I care for pets the same way I care for my own kids: with routine, attention, and respect. I follow feeding schedules, exercise needs, and house rules closely. While I don’t have a patio, we’re five minutes from the dog park and take daily walks to nearby nature spots. I have gates between rooms so the dogs can meet and sniff each other while still having their own space to adjust. Once they seem comfortable with each other, I open the gate so they can interact and play, with me right beside them. If one starts feeling scared or threatened, I give them space again. My dogs know commands like “personal space” and “mind your business.” We practice almost every day because we meet dogs and people with different personalities at the dog park. Better safe than sorry! Dogs stay on a leash during walks and outings, and I usually attach one of my AirTags to their collars as an extra precaution. Although my profile says I accept up to five dogs, the number I host depends on their size, individual needs, and behavior so I can give each one the care and attention they need. Please bring kibble in an airtight container labeled with your dog’s name, the food brand, and feeding instructions. Include a measuring cup and clearly indicate the amount per meal. If your dog eats something other than kibble, please pack it properly and label everything. Please chop raw food as needed and pack it in individual meal portions in sealed Ziploc bags, with storage and serving instructions included. I have plenty of chew toys and balls, but if your dog has a special toy or lovey, please bring it along. If they sleep in a kennel, I prefer that you bring their own, along with their bed or mat. It’s not required, since I have extra beds, but their familiar things may help them feel more at home. You’re also welcome to bring a T-shirt you’ve worn so they can have your familiar scent nearby while they wait for you to come back. I talk to the dogs in my care because I believe they understand more than we think. I often remind them that you’ll be back soon, especially rescue dogs who may have lived in different homes. I want them to feel safe, loved, and comfortable while they’re with me.

We spend our days studying and working at home. My boys have extracurricular activities within 5-10 minutes of home, so I usually drop them off and come back. If I need to stay, I usually bring the dogs along and walk them around nearby parks or dog-friendly neighborhoods. I pay close attention to choosing places with sidewalks and grassy areas. It’s rare for me to be away from home for more than four hours. If we need to be gone longer, two dog-friendly neighbors help with my own dogs. When I’m pet sitting, I arrange my schedule to be home almost all the time. Advance bookings help me plan around your dog’s needs, but for last-minute bookings, I make arrangements before confirming. I don’t like leaving my own dogs alone for long stretches, and I feel the same about guest dogs. They deserve company and attention while they’re in my care. We usually visit the dog park twice a day, take three to five neighborhood walks, and enjoy plenty of downtime at home while we’re cooking, doing schoolwork, or just relaxing. We also like going to dog-friendly beaches and exploring hidden local spots. I adjust those outings to each dog’s energy level and comfort around other dogs.