Stephanie H.
West Des Moines, IA
Services
Stephanie can care for
Availability
From Banking Regulator to Rover; I quit my career with the Federal Reserve System to focus on my health and well-being. I am currently applying for full-time work, am available generally 24/7, and try to update my calendar on a four-week rolling basis. Whether your dog loves active urban hikes or prefers a slower pace, I tailor the schedule to fit their needs. If you dog finds an enticing smell, I allow adequate sniff-time.
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About Stephanie H.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Boarding & Daycare: I have a 2 dog limit (excluding Yogi) based on size and prior care history. Your pet will enjoy exposure and socialization in a neutral and safe space. After every walk, your dog’s paws will be cleaned with either the Mud Buster or Earth Rated Textured Pet Wipes. For extra care, I have on-hand is a pet first aid kit, Vetericyn Antimicrobial Wound Care Spray, NutriVet Liquid Bandage, Skout's Honor Probiotic Paw Spray, and Musher's Secret as needed. Your pup will have their own feeding and water area, equipped with Kurgo collapsible bowls to accommodate different sizes. Bowls are washed nightly after dinner to maintain cleanliness. Walks are conducted with the Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Bungee Leash.
Information Stephanie H. would like to know about your pet
To provide the best care, I’d love to know: - Your dog’s preferences and quirks: Are there breeds, people, or situations (like bicycles, scooters, or skateboarders) that your pup dislikes? - Your update preferences: How often would you like to receive updates, photos, or videos? - Special routines: Is there anything you’d like me to maintain, like feeding schedules, specific commands, or bedtime rituals? Let me know how I can make your pet’s stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible—for both of you!
A typical day
Morning Wellness: - A tasty Kirkland Signature Dental Chew or Greenies Anytime Bite to kick off the day. - A refreshing Urban Hike with plenty of sniffs and sights. Midday Pampering: - A post-lunch walk followed by a special treat: Bark Bistro Buddy Budder on a lick mat for mental stimulation or Woof Pupcicle. Afternoon Siesta: - Relaxation in the Wellness Room featuring a soothing sound machine and plush bed for napping. Evening Rituals: - A Happy Hour Walk to burn off energy before dinner. - A calm evening stroll to wind down for bedtime. Each day balances exercise, enrichment, and relaxation to ensure your dog feels fulfilled and happy.
Location
West Des Moines, IA
Pets
Stephanie H. has Star Sitter status
The Star Sitter program highlights responsive sitters who deliver highly rated care and have a history of listing accurate availability and preferences, making it easier for pet parents to find the best care for their pets.
Your Pup's Urban Wellness Retreat
Pet care experience
Current Services Offered: Walks, Drop-ins My Pets: Mikko (February 2010 - June 2021): My first dog… my first bear. Mikko was a two-year-old owner-surrender to Panora Pets in Guthrie County, Iowa. I always wanted a Chow Chow (Mikko was a mix) since I was kid; I saw one at the corner of Beaver Avenue and Franklin Avenue on my way to Snookies and knew I wanted a dog that looked like a bear. Mikko unfortunately tore his ACL at Raccoon River Dog Park in 2015 and we never visited there again. Dogs that tear one ACL are more prone to tearing the other ACL as they have spent so much time favoring it during the recovery. On a snowy weekend in January 2017, Mikko tore his other ACL. This second time was less traumatic for me since I knew what to expect this time around. Unfortunately, Mikko was diagnosed with anal gland cancer in January 2021 and we parted ways in June 2021. Yogi (February 2018 - Current): My second dog… my second bear but my first puppy. If you are considering having children, I highly suggest starting with a puppy first. Yogi and I spent a lot of time working on his fear-based anxiety and leash aggression. I am so proud of the dog he is today and grateful for the folks at Ahimsa Dog Training in Seattle. In February 2019, we got Yogi on puppy Xanax to help reduce the anxiety to focus on building his comfort, confidence, and obedience. Yogi is now a generally mellow and sweet eight-year-old who makes an excellent training companion. I have worked with him extensively to overcome leash reactivity and herding tendencies, and I’m happy to continue any training you’re working on at home with your pup.
Cat care experience
Stephanie also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Reviews
Stephanie is amazing! She did a fantastic job with Kona and was super responsive whenever I had questions. She is on time, friendly, and makes sure Kona is safe and enjoying his walks. Would recommend
Stephanie was great! Communicative and prompt :)
Stephanie was super easy to communicate with and took great care of my pup!
Stephanie was the sweetest with our pup Bruno! She has great energy and Bruno immediately felt comfortable with her. She was also very attentive with him and sent great updates / pictures. Would absolutely book with Stephanie again!
About Stephanie H.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Boarding & Daycare: I have a 2 dog limit (excluding Yogi) based on size and prior care history. Your pet will enjoy exposure and socialization in a neutral and safe space. After every walk, your dog’s paws will be cleaned with either the Mud Buster or Earth Rated Textured Pet Wipes. For extra care, I have on-hand is a pet first aid kit, Vetericyn Antimicrobial Wound Care Spray, NutriVet Liquid Bandage, Skout's Honor Probiotic Paw Spray, and Musher's Secret as needed. Your pup will have their own feeding and water area, equipped with Kurgo collapsible bowls to accommodate different sizes. Bowls are washed nightly after dinner to maintain cleanliness. Walks are conducted with the Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Bungee Leash.
Information Stephanie H. would like to know about your pet
To provide the best care, I’d love to know: - Your dog’s preferences and quirks: Are there breeds, people, or situations (like bicycles, scooters, or skateboarders) that your pup dislikes? - Your update preferences: How often would you like to receive updates, photos, or videos? - Special routines: Is there anything you’d like me to maintain, like feeding schedules, specific commands, or bedtime rituals? Let me know how I can make your pet’s stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible—for both of you!
A typical day
Morning Wellness: - A tasty Kirkland Signature Dental Chew or Greenies Anytime Bite to kick off the day. - A refreshing Urban Hike with plenty of sniffs and sights. Midday Pampering: - A post-lunch walk followed by a special treat: Bark Bistro Buddy Budder on a lick mat for mental stimulation or Woof Pupcicle. Afternoon Siesta: - Relaxation in the Wellness Room featuring a soothing sound machine and plush bed for napping. Evening Rituals: - A Happy Hour Walk to burn off energy before dinner. - A calm evening stroll to wind down for bedtime. Each day balances exercise, enrichment, and relaxation to ensure your dog feels fulfilled and happy.
Stephanie H.
West Des Moines, IA