I am writing this with my current guest leaning on my foot dozing. That way he won’t miss any move I may make toward the kitchen or toward the door for another walk.
Most dog owners do not realize how upsetting it is to their best friend to be away from them and his familiar surroundings. I find it may take a day or two before they relax and start to enjoy the attention that I give them. I win them over with lots of leisurely walks, with ample time to enjoy a treat for dogs, the smells of a new neighborhood.
Smaller dogs get lots of lap time, scratches and belly rubs and can join me in bed if they wish. They are free to roam the house and find a comfortable place to snooze.
I do not leave the house for longer than an hour when your dog is here and I carefully monitor how he is eating and his general health.
Updates and photos are sent on request so that you will know your best pal is having a good time, and so you can relax.
All guests must have their vaccinations current so that there is no chance of contacting kennel cough or other diseases. Also please ensure they have been bathed and are flea and tick free.
Please include everything they need for “camp”, leash, their toys, food and bedding, unless they are used to sleeping on a bed.
There is no substitute for boarding your dog with an experienced caring host who does not secretly pack dogs in just to make extra income! I do not have more than three dogs here at one time unless they are family.
About me; I am a retired businessman who lives alone and I have been dog hosting for several years. I was drawn to this business when some of my neighbors asked me to care for their dogs and I realized how much I enjoyed the companionship of having a dog in the house again.
My experience; here is my first job watching my grand-father's dog:
I live in a small, dog friendly, gated community on city water, near Northlake and Military Trail in Palm Beach Gardens. Located conveniently close to I-95 and the Florida Turnpike.
I use patience to make dogs behave, I do not use electrical devices!
Fees; I charge $30.00 per calendar day, early drop offs and pickups are available. Additional charges may apply for puppies, special needs pets, un-neutered males over one year old, very large breeds and/or high energy pets. I offer discounts for multiple pets from the same household. I do not take bully breeds.
Use a professional for your pet’s sake; Part time pet hosts come and go and when they provide poor service, get complaints and do not get repeat business then their business dwindles. You will not know how your dog was treated after you leave, but a good indicator is how he behaves towards the host when you return. I am always pleased when they come back for a last scratch before leaving!
Affiliations; As a member of Four Legged Pet Care, I am insured, licensed and a member of The Better Business Bureau, ASPCA, Pet Sitters Associates, and The Pet Chamber of Commerce.
I suggest a meeting with you and your dog for an introduction first, so he can meet me, sniff around and hopefully give you his approval.
Thank you and I look forward to meeting you and making your special dog a new friend.
For fellow dog lovers, a few heart warming stories: