🐶 About the Dog Is the dog friendly with strangers, kids, or other animals? Any aggression, fear, or special triggers (mailman, thunderstorms, bicycles)? Couch potato vs. high-energy runner. This determines how much exercise you’ll need to give. What commands does the dog know? Do they pull on walks, jump on people, or chew furniture? Care Routine Times, portions, dietary restrictions, food allergies. Walks & Exercise– Frequency, length, and type of activity (walks, playtime, off-leash?). Medications / Health Needs – Daily meds, supplements, or any special handling. Bathroom Breaks – How often do they need to go out? Any accidents indoors? Keys, alarm codes, where the dog is allowed in the house, backyard fences. Furniture rules, crate use, sleeping arrangements. Vet contact, preferred hospital, owner’s emergency contact. --- ### 🚩 Red Flags & Boundaries * **Time Commitment** – Make sure your schedule fits the dog’s needs. (Some dogs can’t be left alone for long.) * **Compatibility** – If the dog is anxious, reactive, or very large/strong, be honest about whether you can safely handle them. * **Extra Responsibilities** – Are you also watering plants, bringing in mail, or handling multiple pets? --- ### ✅ Good Practices Before Saying Yes 1. **Meet the Dog First** – A trial walk or visit helps you see if you’re comfortable. 2. **Write Things Down** – Ask the owner to provide all care instructions in writing. 3. **Clarify Payment / Exchange** – If this is a paid sit, align on rates, overnight fees, or extras. If it’s a favor, discuss expectations clearly.

Since I work remotely and have flexible hours I can take your dog for plenty of walks and be present to play with them. That’s a fun one! Here’s a mix of outdoor, indoor, and creative activities you can do with a dog depending on energy level, personality, and weather: Trail Hike or Nature Walk – Dogs love exploring new scents and terrains. Beach or Lake Day – Many dogs enjoy splashing, swimming, or just running in the sand. Fetch with a Twist – frisbees, balls that bounce unpredictably, or a ball launcher. Dog-Friendly Café or Brewery Visit – Great socialization and people-watching. Scavenger Hunt Walk – Hide treats along your route or bring toys for your dog to “find.” Camping Trip – Dogs usually love sleeping outdoors and hiking during the day. Hide & Seek – Hide yourself or toys/treats and let your dog find them. Puzzle Toys / Treat Games – Mental stimulation can tire them out as much as physical play. Homemade Obstacle Course– Use chairs, blankets, broomsticks for jumps, tunnels with boxes. Tug-of-War – Great for bonding and energy release. Doggy Playdate – Invite a friend with a pup for a play session. Doggy Spa Day – Bath, brushing, and massage (dogs love the pampering if done gently). Bike Ride / Rollerblading with Leash Attachment – For high-energy dogs who can run safely.