Personalized care for your dog or cat - Blue River

“I can’t say enough great things about Candi and the care she took with our two dogs. I’ve never felt so comfortable with “boarding” my dogs while I was gone for a long trip. I knew they were being treated like part of her family. She sent videos and pictures to keep me updated. My big dog ended up having some stomach issues and Candi didn’t skip a beat. We called my vet and she picked up some meds and got her back on track. Her four dogs were great with mine - they had such a blast. Not sure who enjoyed the vacation more, me or the dogs. She also has a beautiful acreage for them to run around and get fresh air. Wish I would have found her earlier! Thank you Candi!”

Candace F.

About: I have a background in both education and dog training, so I focus heavily on structure, communication, and understanding each dog’s individual needs. I have experience working with dogs of all ages, energy levels, and personalities, including puppies, high-energy breeds, and dogs that benefit from extra patience or routine. I’m CPR certified, experienced with enrichment-based care, and comfortable reinforcing basic training skills such as leash manners, recall, sit/down, place, and calm behavior during visits and walks. I also have experience with hunting and working breeds, so I understand the importance of both physical exercise and mental stimulation. What sets me apart most is that I genuinely enjoy building trust and relationships with the dogs I care for. I prioritize safety, consistency, and making sure each dog feels comfortable, engaged, and well cared for while you’re away. I also provide reliable communication and updates so owners can feel confident their pets are in good hands. I intentionally keep openings in my schedule for walks, drop-in visits, boarding, and individualized care. I currently have availability most mornings, a few evenings, and select weekends which allows me to provide consistent attention and flexible scheduling for clients. Because I prioritize quality care and reliability, I carefully manage my schedule to make sure each pet receives plenty of time, attention, exercise, and communication while in my care. believe every dog is different, so I focus heavily on each pet’s individual needs, personality, comfort level, and routine. Some dogs need lots of exercise and enrichment, while others need a calmer environment, patience, or extra reassurance while their owners are away. When caring for pets in a client’s home or my own, I take time to learn their feeding schedule, potty routine, energy level, favorite activities, training expectations, and anything that helps them feel comfortable and secure. I adjust my care style based on the individual dog rather than taking a “one size fits all” approach. My goal is always to make pets feel safe, understood, and cared for while maintaining as much consistency and routine as possible.

About: I’ve always had cats growing up. My cat (a 3 year old tabby) hates a dirty litter box, so I scoop it every night. About a year ago, he was experiencing urethral plugs. After visiting the vet and researching different foods, I switched his food which eliminated the plugs thankfully. So I have experience caring for cats with illnesses and noticing the warning signs. My friends and family have also trusted me to look after their cats, so I would visit them before and after work daily to make sure they had food and water, and their litter box was clean. Some cats like the company (like mine) and others like to keep to themselves, so I understand every cat has their own personality and needs.

“Appreciated that Perry was willing to take on some custom requests. Thanks!”

Ann G.

“Lauren jumped on board last minute to take care of my sweet girl—she was so attentive and communicative, and even gave me some local tips. Would rover with her again!”

Bridget I.

About: I have taken care of cats for years. Rather they have been outside cats or a family friends cats. I am currently working at the Iowa county humane society. I always note if something is wrong or if I notice something new. I will send the owners updates on how their animals are doing.

“Sage was in good hands with Candida! When we picked him up he seemed to be tired, but in good spirits from a lovely day playing with the other pups in Candida's care. I loved all the photos Candida sent and she has such a lovely home. Would 100% book again! Thank you so much!!”

Tanya G.

“Close to House on the Rock. Wish we didn't have had to cancel”

Diann R.

About: I have a background in both education and dog training, so I focus heavily on structure, communication, and understanding each dog’s individual needs. I have experience working with dogs of all ages, energy levels, and personalities, including puppies, high-energy breeds, and dogs that benefit from extra patience or routine. I’m CPR certified, experienced with enrichment-based care, and comfortable reinforcing basic training skills such as leash manners, recall, sit/down, place, and calm behavior during visits and walks. I also have experience with hunting and working breeds, so I understand the importance of both physical exercise and mental stimulation. What sets me apart most is that I genuinely enjoy building trust and relationships with the dogs I care for. I prioritize safety, consistency, and making sure each dog feels comfortable, engaged, and well cared for while you’re away. I also provide reliable communication and updates so owners can feel confident their pets are in good hands. I intentionally keep openings in my schedule for walks, drop-in visits, boarding, and individualized care. I currently have availability most mornings, a few evenings, and select weekends which allows me to provide consistent attention and flexible scheduling for clients. Because I prioritize quality care and reliability, I carefully manage my schedule to make sure each pet receives plenty of time, attention, exercise, and communication while in my care. believe every dog is different, so I focus heavily on each pet’s individual needs, personality, comfort level, and routine. Some dogs need lots of exercise and enrichment, while others need a calmer environment, patience, or extra reassurance while their owners are away. When caring for pets in a client’s home or my own, I take time to learn their feeding schedule, potty routine, energy level, favorite activities, training expectations, and anything that helps them feel comfortable and secure. I adjust my care style based on the individual dog rather than taking a “one size fits all” approach. My goal is always to make pets feel safe, understood, and cared for while maintaining as much consistency and routine as possible.

“Clayton did a great job with Ozzy! Ozzy can be a real handful on his walks, but Clayton did a great job. I really appreciated the pictures from the walks and the report card. I would recommend Clayton to anyone who wanted any of the services you provide for dogs. I will definitely be using Clayton services in the future.”

Gail T.

About: I’ve been a proud dog owner for over 15 years, and caring for dogs has always been a big part of my life. Over the years, I’ve gained hands on experience with dogs of all sizes, ages, and temperaments, from energetic puppies to senior pups. In addition to caring for my own pets, I’ve volunteered at local animal shelters, where I helped walk, feed, and socialize dogs from all backgrounds. I'm comfortable with a variety of breeds and activity levels, and I always tailor my approach to each dog’s individual needs, whether it’s a long walk for an active dog, playtime and enrichment for a curious pup, or calm companionship for an older one. My goal is to make every dog feel happy, safe, and loved. I don't have much experience with cats but am eager to learn and help any cat parent that needs it. I currently work from home and have a flexible schedule that allows me to check on or walk pets during the day or anytime during the week. Your pet’s safety and comfort are always my top priorities. Whether I’m walking your dog, visiting for a drop in, or staying in your home, I make sure each pet feels relaxed, secure, and loved. During walks, I always use secure leashes, avoid unsafe areas, and keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior and surroundings. For drop in visits, I follow your routine for feeding, playtime, and potty breaks to keep things consistent and stress free. When staying in your home, I treat your space with respect and keep everything clean and tidy while maintaining your pet’s usual schedule.

About: I have been taking care of animals ever since I was little, between dogs, cats, reptiles, and even farm animals such as dairy cows, pigs, goats, chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs. I have open availability so I can take pets anytime and any day. I can do both cats and dogs as I have experience in both and experience in different energy levels I have a fence for my pets, we play with toys, and we go on walks (depending on the weather). My dog will sleep where she is most comfortable and she always goes to the bathroom on time.

“I can’t say enough great things about Candi and the care she took with our two dogs. I’ve never felt so comfortable with “boarding” my dogs while I was gone for a long trip. I knew they were being treated like part of her family. She sent videos and pictures to keep me updated. My big dog ended up having some stomach issues and Candi didn’t skip a beat. We called my vet and she picked up some meds and got her back on track. Her four dogs were great with mine - they had such a blast. Not sure who enjoyed the vacation more, me or the dogs. She also has a beautiful acreage for them to run around and get fresh air. Wish I would have found her earlier! Thank you Candi!”

Candace F.

About: I have a background in both education and dog training, so I focus heavily on structure, communication, and understanding each dog’s individual needs. I have experience working with dogs of all ages, energy levels, and personalities, including puppies, high-energy breeds, and dogs that benefit from extra patience or routine. I’m CPR certified, experienced with enrichment-based care, and comfortable reinforcing basic training skills such as leash manners, recall, sit/down, place, and calm behavior during visits and walks. I also have experience with hunting and working breeds, so I understand the importance of both physical exercise and mental stimulation. What sets me apart most is that I genuinely enjoy building trust and relationships with the dogs I care for. I prioritize safety, consistency, and making sure each dog feels comfortable, engaged, and well cared for while you’re away. I also provide reliable communication and updates so owners can feel confident their pets are in good hands. I intentionally keep openings in my schedule for walks, drop-in visits, boarding, and individualized care. I currently have availability most mornings, a few evenings, and select weekends which allows me to provide consistent attention and flexible scheduling for clients. Because I prioritize quality care and reliability, I carefully manage my schedule to make sure each pet receives plenty of time, attention, exercise, and communication while in my care. believe every dog is different, so I focus heavily on each pet’s individual needs, personality, comfort level, and routine. Some dogs need lots of exercise and enrichment, while others need a calmer environment, patience, or extra reassurance while their owners are away. When caring for pets in a client’s home or my own, I take time to learn their feeding schedule, potty routine, energy level, favorite activities, training expectations, and anything that helps them feel comfortable and secure. I adjust my care style based on the individual dog rather than taking a “one size fits all” approach. My goal is always to make pets feel safe, understood, and cared for while maintaining as much consistency and routine as possible.