Xiaohan M.
Aurora Highlands, VA
Bestie of Furry Friends
Pet care experience
Hello, fellow dog enthusiasts! I’m Candice, and my lifelong journey with dogs began at the tender age of 5. Having grown up surrounded by dogs in every facet of my life—from my household to my neighborhood, and extending to friends and family—I've developed an innate understanding and a profound love for these remarkable companions. They've been my teachers, my friends, and sources of unconditional love. Currently, my heart is split between two continents: it belongs to a spirited Border Collie Yenai (ask me what it means in Chinese) waiting to join me from China after the summer, and to Walle, a playful and loving miniature mixed doodle who's been lighting up my life for the past 10 months right here at home. Walle's energetic spirit and joyful demeanor are a constant source of happiness and inspiration.😊 My dedication to animal welfare extends beyond my personal life; I have volunteered with animal rescue organizations for over 5 years, honing my skills in nurturing not only baby puppies but dogs of all ages and with various needs. With a lifetime of dog care experience and a home that's always filled with paw prints and love, I am here to offer your beloved pet the care, respect, and adventure they deserve. As your dog's next best friend and caretaker, I promise to cherish and look after them with all the love I give to my own. Let's make sure your pup has the most joyful, loving experience while you're away!😊😎
Reviews
Xiaohan was amazing with Milo! Sent lots of videos and pictures ! Look forward to using her again!
Candice is great! She was very sweet to our kitty.
About Xiaohan M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Safety: I prioritize creating a safe space for pets by pet-proofing my home and closely supervising outdoor play to prevent accidents. Regular health checks and maintaining a clean environment are standard practices. When caring for pets in a client's home, I adhere to their safety guidelines and routines to ensure consistency and security. Trust: Building trust starts with a meet-and-greet to familiarize myself with the pets and their owners, understanding their routines, preferences, and any special care instructions. I maintain open, transparent communication with pet owners, providing regular updates and photos to assure them of their pet's well-being. Environment: In my home, pets enjoy a warm, welcoming space with designated areas for rest, play, and dining. I strive to replicate their home environment as closely as possible to minimize stress. When in a client's home, I respect their space and ensure pets feel comfortable and loved in their familiar surroundings. By focusing on these principles, I provide a caring, responsive service tailored to each pet's needs, ensuring they are safe, happy, and well-cared for under my watch.
Home
Information Xiaohan M. would like to know about your pet
Here are key points I find important to know ahead of time: Medical History and Health Issues: Knowing any existing health conditions, allergies, medications, and vaccination status helps me provide the best care and take immediate action in case of an emergency. Behavior and Temperament: Understanding a pet's behavior towards other animals, children, and strangers, as well as any triggers or fears, allows me to create a safe and comfortable environment for them. Dietary Requirements: Detailed information about the pet's diet, feeding schedule, and any food sensitivities or preferences ensures they receive proper nutrition under my care. Exercise Needs: Every pet has different energy levels and exercise requirements. Knowing this helps me plan appropriate physical activities to keep them healthy and happy. Routine: Pets thrive on routine. Learning about their usual schedule for walks, meals, playtime, and sleep helps me maintain their normal routine as closely as possible. Training and Commands: Being aware of the commands a pet knows and any ongoing training efforts allows me to reinforce their skills and maintain consistency in their training. Special Needs: Any specific care requirements, including grooming needs, special equipment (e.g., harnesses, ramps), or behavioral management strategies, are essential to know to provide personalized care. Emergency Contact Information: Having the contact details of the pet owner, a preferred veterinarian, and an emergency contact is crucial for handling any unexpected situations promptly and effectively.
A typical day
A typical day under my care is filled with engaging and fun activities tailored to each pet's personality and energy levels, ensuring they have a delightful time while their owners are away. Here’s a glimpse into our day: Morning: We kick off the day with a brisk walk or a jog to get those tails wagging, followed by a hearty breakfast. It’s a great way for pets to start their day with exercise and proper nutrition. Midday: Depending on the weather and the pet's energy level, we might head to the dog park downstairs for some off-leash playtime with other friendly dogs, engaging in fetch or tug-of-war. For pets that prefer a quieter environment, I offer puzzle toys or a gentle stroll in a serene area to stimulate their minds and senses. Afternoon: After lunch (optional) and some rest, it's time for training exercises or interactive games that not only entertain but also reinforce positive behaviors. Activities like hide-and-seek with treats or agility exercises in the backyard keep pets engaged and happy. Evening: As the day winds down, we enjoy a more relaxed walk, taking in the sunset. Dinner follows, and then some quiet time together, maybe cuddling on the couch, to help them settle down for the night. Throughout the day, I ensure there are plenty of opportunities for pets to rest and hydrate, especially after play sessions. My goal is to balance fun with relaxation, catering to the pet's individual needs for a fulfilling and enjoyable day.
Services
Xiaohan can host
Xiaohan can watch in your home
Availability
Every day starts and ends with caring for pets—morning walks, nutritious meals, and plenty of playtime and cuddles. Weekends are reserved for longer adventures and grooming sessions. I adapt to each pet's needs, ensuring they're happy and healthy. Pet care isn't just a task for me; it's a priority that brings joy and fulfillment to my everyday life 🥰❤️
About Xiaohan M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Safety: I prioritize creating a safe space for pets by pet-proofing my home and closely supervising outdoor play to prevent accidents. Regular health checks and maintaining a clean environment are standard practices. When caring for pets in a client's home, I adhere to their safety guidelines and routines to ensure consistency and security. Trust: Building trust starts with a meet-and-greet to familiarize myself with the pets and their owners, understanding their routines, preferences, and any special care instructions. I maintain open, transparent communication with pet owners, providing regular updates and photos to assure them of their pet's well-being. Environment: In my home, pets enjoy a warm, welcoming space with designated areas for rest, play, and dining. I strive to replicate their home environment as closely as possible to minimize stress. When in a client's home, I respect their space and ensure pets feel comfortable and loved in their familiar surroundings. By focusing on these principles, I provide a caring, responsive service tailored to each pet's needs, ensuring they are safe, happy, and well-cared for under my watch.
Home
Information Xiaohan M. would like to know about your pet
Here are key points I find important to know ahead of time: Medical History and Health Issues: Knowing any existing health conditions, allergies, medications, and vaccination status helps me provide the best care and take immediate action in case of an emergency. Behavior and Temperament: Understanding a pet's behavior towards other animals, children, and strangers, as well as any triggers or fears, allows me to create a safe and comfortable environment for them. Dietary Requirements: Detailed information about the pet's diet, feeding schedule, and any food sensitivities or preferences ensures they receive proper nutrition under my care. Exercise Needs: Every pet has different energy levels and exercise requirements. Knowing this helps me plan appropriate physical activities to keep them healthy and happy. Routine: Pets thrive on routine. Learning about their usual schedule for walks, meals, playtime, and sleep helps me maintain their normal routine as closely as possible. Training and Commands: Being aware of the commands a pet knows and any ongoing training efforts allows me to reinforce their skills and maintain consistency in their training. Special Needs: Any specific care requirements, including grooming needs, special equipment (e.g., harnesses, ramps), or behavioral management strategies, are essential to know to provide personalized care. Emergency Contact Information: Having the contact details of the pet owner, a preferred veterinarian, and an emergency contact is crucial for handling any unexpected situations promptly and effectively.
A typical day
A typical day under my care is filled with engaging and fun activities tailored to each pet's personality and energy levels, ensuring they have a delightful time while their owners are away. Here’s a glimpse into our day: Morning: We kick off the day with a brisk walk or a jog to get those tails wagging, followed by a hearty breakfast. It’s a great way for pets to start their day with exercise and proper nutrition. Midday: Depending on the weather and the pet's energy level, we might head to the dog park downstairs for some off-leash playtime with other friendly dogs, engaging in fetch or tug-of-war. For pets that prefer a quieter environment, I offer puzzle toys or a gentle stroll in a serene area to stimulate their minds and senses. Afternoon: After lunch (optional) and some rest, it's time for training exercises or interactive games that not only entertain but also reinforce positive behaviors. Activities like hide-and-seek with treats or agility exercises in the backyard keep pets engaged and happy. Evening: As the day winds down, we enjoy a more relaxed walk, taking in the sunset. Dinner follows, and then some quiet time together, maybe cuddling on the couch, to help them settle down for the night. Throughout the day, I ensure there are plenty of opportunities for pets to rest and hydrate, especially after play sessions. My goal is to balance fun with relaxation, catering to the pet's individual needs for a fulfilling and enjoyable day.
Location
Arlington, VA
Pets
Xiaohan M.
Aurora Highlands, VA