Before caring for a dog, it's crucial to know several pieces of information to ensure their safety, comfort, and happiness: 1. Behavior and Temperament: Understanding a dog's behavior and temperament helps me tailor my care approach. Are they outgoing or shy? Do they get along with other animals? Are they comfortable with strangers or do they need time to warm up? 2. Dietary Needs: What is their feeding schedule and what type of food do they eat? Do they have any allergies or food sensitivities? Are there any specific feeding instructions I should follow? 3. Exercise Requirements: How much exercise does the dog need? Do they enjoy specific activities like fetch, swimming, or hiking? Are there any physical limitations I should be aware of? 4. Medical Needs: Does the dog have any health issues or take any medications? If so, what is the administration schedule and are there any side effects I should watch for? 5. Training and Commands: What commands does the dog know? Are there any specific training methods or rules I should follow? 6. Routine: Dogs thrive on routine, so knowing their typical daily schedule can help minimize stress. When do they usually eat, go for walks, play, and sleep? 7. Emergency Contact Information: It's important to have the contact information for the dog's vet, as well as an emergency contact if the owner can't be reached. The more I know about a dog, the better I can provide personalized care that meets their specific needs and ensures their comfort and happiness!

A typical day caring for dogs in my charge is filled with fun, exercise, and exploration. Living across the street from the Arapahoe National Forest, I have access to a multitude of mountain trails that serve as the perfect playground for dogs. We can explore these trails together, providing them with plenty of stimulation and exercise. The varied terrain and new smells make for an exciting adventure for any dog. If hiking trails aren't your dog's preference, or for our more relaxed or senior friends, I also take multiple walks throughout the streets of our quiet neighborhood each day. These walks allow for a more leisurely pace and plenty of opportunities for sniffing and exploring in a more urban setting. For dogs who love to swim, I enjoy trips to the lake where we can play fetch in the water. This is a great way for dogs to cool off on hot days and provides a different type of exercise and stimulation. In addition to these activities, I am more than happy to help with training and reinforcement. Whether your dog is learning basic commands or working on more advanced skills, I can provide consistent, positive reinforcement to help them learn.