Healthy dogs—I'm a firm believer in exercise for dogs of all sizes and breeds. I understand that weather has some challenges, but I improvise as needed.
Unhealthy dogs—If your dog has health conditions that render exercise unhealthy, please let me know so we can create alternative stimulation, including grooming and stroller walks.
Aggressive dogs—I don't pet sit for dogs that has bitten a person or other dogs in the past. I empathize with dogs that are rough around the edges, but I'm not a trained behaviorist. There are basket muzzles that aggressive dogs can wear to enable exercise: reduced boredom can help with aggression.
Day Walks—Our area provides stimulating daytime exercise, including urban parks on leash and leashed runs in the Koduls.
Night Walks—If your dog likes a lot of space and isn't a fan of other dogs, night walks are a good alternative, depending on your neighborhood and only after I get to know your dog and its needs and temperament.
Swimming—My dog is an avid river swimmer, but I tend to reserve Snooks and Highline for my clients' dogs for risk-free water play. If you have a hydrophilic dog, you're in luck!
Running—I'm a runner, and I'm happy to give your dog a brisk jog on leash if you desire and if your dog is conditioned and leash-trained for runs and as weather permits. If your dog overheats easily, runs might not be suitable. On warm days, I typically let my dog swim, then run, then swim again. Snooks is a good place for such a routine.
Hikes—I love hiking, but you must communicate to me your dog's conditioning (elevation and miles). Your dog will always be on leash. I try to avoid popular trails due to other dogs' behavior, but know there are risks where there are other dogs. I'm an avid hiker, so extended hikes/runs are possible, but depends on the dog. Border Collie and Australian Cattle Dog seem to be very tolerant of heat, though I still try to mix in a swim or carry extra water to "shower" the pups head and/or belly.
Play & Playdates—If your dog has a friend, happy to schedule playdates if the venue is suitable. Otherwise, backyard play such as fetch and frisbee are available to get your dog the exercise it needs. I'll gladly use stimulating cat toys to entertain your cat's instincts.
Stroller walks—If your dog has health condition whereby vet does not recommend exercise, consider buying a stroller for walks. Additionally, there are parks without dogs that offer sensory experiences, including Robb State Park grassy playground and Salt Wash Park woodland.
Dog parks—Generally, I don't use dog parks as there are so many fun alternatives, but I'm willing to consider that this might be appropriate for some dogs.
Car rides—As temperatures allow, and especially in winter, I can take dogs on errands (pet store), or scenic drives. Some dogs love car rides. Nothing like the window rolled down in BLM country to awaken the senses. If you have more than one dog, you'll need to buy an additional seat belt (Chow Down of Fruita sells them).
I offer the following services as appropriate for your pet and based on the time I have with clients' pets. I'll go the extra mile if your pet is particular in any way.
(Overnights Only) Feeding—Feeding is available during overnights only. My clients feed their pets as a routine before leaving the house for the day. If suitable for your pet's dietary needs, I recommend automated feeders.
Grooming—Many cats and some dogs enjoy being groomed, and doing so makes for a tidy home. If your dog has feathered leg furnishings or plumed tails surrounding the anal area that catch and trap waste, I will fit in a quick bathing. For pets that don't like bathing, a sponge bath, river swim, or kiddy pool are alternatives.
Cage/litter cleaning & poop patrol—Poop doesn't bother me! I prefer a non-chemical approach to litter boxes: there isn't anything vinegar and soapy water can solve. I was raised by a housekeeper, so no job is too dirty.
Medication—I can administer basic medication with detailed instructions provided.