5.0

Before We Start • Meet & Greet: I learn your dog’s routines, cues, triggers, and comfort items. We review leash manners, crate habits, feeding/med timing, allergies, meds, and vet info. • Customized Plan: I follow your rules—walk routes, training cues, off-limit furniture/foods, and enrichment style so care feels consistent and safe. Home & Yard Safety • Fenced-In Yard: My yard is fully fenced; I do a quick perimeter check before every play session and keep gates latched/locked. • Supervised Outside Time: No unsupervised yard time. I’m always outside with your dog, watching for digging, fence testing, or wildlife. • Secure Entry/Exit: Doors and gates are closed before leashes come off. I use a “wait” cue at thresholds to prevent door dashing. Leash & Walk Protocols • Double-Check Gear: I confirm fit on collars/harnesses and use a secure clip leash (no retractables for safety). For strong pullers, I’m comfortable with front-clip harnesses. • Controlled Routes: I choose calm routes, avoid tight dog-to-dog greetings, and keep a safe distance from potential triggers (bikes, scooters, reactive dogs). • Weather-Smart Walks: I adjust duration/pace for heat/cold, check paw pads, and provide water breaks. In high heat, we stick to shade/grass and earlier or later outings. Indoor Care & Calm • Constant Vigilance: I’m a naturally watchful caregiver (and a preschool teacher!), so I anticipate needs, redirect unsafe behaviors, and keep environments tidy and hazard-free. • Safe Setups: Trash is secured; food, plants, and chewable cords are out of reach. If you use a crate or playpen, I follow your routine to create a calm, predictable space. • Enrichment with Boundaries: Mental games, sniffaris, and puzzle feeders are supervised and chosen to match your dog’s size and chew strength. Health & Hygiene • Clean Bowls & Surfaces: Fresh water at all times; bowls and mats wiped daily. I wash hands between pets and after handling food. • Medication Handling: I give meds exactly as directed and log doses/times. I’ll reach out immediately if anything seems off. • Watchful Monitoring: I track appetite, energy, stools, and behavior changes and update you with what I observe. - just a few things I do