Pet Pics & Client Testimonials
Brandy & Misty are great! Provided an update with both animals on each visit and even visited twice before to make sure our dog felt more comfortable while we were away. Would definitely recommend! ~Emily R
Emily R.
Brandy & Misty are everything we could ask for and more! From the moment we met, they were professional, timely and friendly! They walked us through everything and made us feel very prepared and comfortable! Daily updates and open communication made our travels stress free knowing that our fur baby was being well loved and cared for. When we came home, it was as if no one had been there all week! They even took the time to water my plants and care for our pool in our absence! Selfishly, I don’t want to share this review because we want to keep them a secret! ? if I could give 10 stars I would!
Megan S.
Packmates has been such a blessing! I am incredibly thankful that they were able to focus on the needs for our dogs. They even taught me a few pointers which I’m sure I will find helpful in the future. Thanks Ladies, for everything ❤️
Kelly J.
Brandy is an incredible house/puppy sitter. Our dog loved her and the attention she provided was beyond belief. It was our first time using a house sitter with our dog during a vacations and she put us at ease from the start. She provided us with daily updates and pup pics and our house was spotless when we got home. It made our entire trip stress-free! We will definitely be booking Brandy and Misty for our next trip!
Di P.
Packmates are gems!! They made our trip stress free and took excellent care of all of our furbabies! They sent wonderful updates and photos and our animals love her! Would definitely recommend them to treat your animals with extra love and care.
Heather L.
I truly appreciate you both! They kept me informed about my girl's and sent numerous pictures and messages, daily. This really helped me with my anxiety of leaving them behind. Thank you for also taking care of our home, checking the mail and ensuring that the house was immaculate after our rough return to the States . (I was delayed an entire day, and Packmates made sure our dogs were taken care of during the whole ordeal). You have my business for future endeavors. ❤ p.s. The girl's LOVED the bones!
Kathie H.
We highly recommend Brandy & Misty ... indeed, we cannot recommend then highly enough! Like most, if not all, pet owners we were apprehensive about not only leaving our pets (3 cats) care to a complete 'stranger', but also have a stranger in our home while we were away. As it turned out, our concerns and trepidation were unfounded ... Brandy was personable, professional and trustworthy ... and not only took excellent care of our pets, but also generously gave us irises from her garden and planted them in our flowerbed. She also watered our houseplants without our asking!!! We will definitely use Packmates services again ... and encourage others to do so as well.
Peter & Elizabeth
Brandy and Misty take wonderful care of my energetic beagle whether I’m away for an extended trip or just out for the day. They stick to his usual routine and shower him with love and attention. Their regular updates, photos, and occasional videos give me total peace of mind. Best of all, he stays in my safe home environment without the risk of exposure to contagious diseases that can come with a boarding facility. I trust Packmates completely and confidently recommend them to anyone seeking attentive, professional pet care.
Randy F.
Great communication. So meticulous in making sure they know everything to care for your animals. 10/10 recommend. I felt my animals were being truly cared for.
Melanie L.
Highly highly recommend! Packmates provided in home overnight care for our 1 1/2 year old black lab while we were on vacation. They came and met our boy weeks prior and made sure to learn all about his routine, likes, dislikes, etc. Daily updates and pictures were received, which made for a worry-free experience. There was great communication from start to finish. Knowing our boy was comfortable in his house, and being loved on the whole time made all the difference. We will definitely be utilizing Packmates in the future!
Shaina Y.
I HIGHLY recommend Packmates Pet Services! Packmates allowed us to have a worry-free vacation, knowing our fur kids were well taken care of! With having a very poor experience boarding a dog in the past, that was out of the question. We wanted something low stress that would maintain our 2 dogs and cats daily routines while we were away, Packmates 100% achieved that with the offered overnight/in home pet sitting. Prior to her staying, she stopped by twice so the dogs could become familiar with her and to go over everyone's routines, likes, dislikes, quirks, etc.. She gave us full confidence that all of our pets would be loved and cared for while we were gone! The (very much appreciated) daily updates and pictures let us know that our fur babies were not missing us nearly as much as we missed them! Exceptional communication, professionalism, and clear love for animals is why I will always exclusively work with Packmates Pet Services for pet sitting needs and recommended them to everyone!!
Alexis F.
I cannot say enough about Packmates and my experience with them taking care of our pets at our home. They are professional, responsive, trustworthy, caring and an absolute joy to work with. Highly recommend!
Mark & Cindy F.
Have you ever meet someone new and instantly feel at ease with them? That’s how our dogs and I immediately responded to Brandy. Our little precious Yorkies absolutely adored her from the start. We have three Yorkies and they are the center of our lives. After we got the youngest, who is epileptic, we were too worried about her to leave her with a sitter. It really limited our ability to travel. When Brandy and Packmates came along, we felt safe to join extended family on a summer trip out of state for 9 days. Our trust was rewarded. We received regular updates and pics while we were away- could tell the dogs were very content. Our complicated medicine regimen was effortlessly administered. And, when we got home, I could tell that they hadn’t even missed us! My partner and I highly recommend Packmates - you can put your trust in them.
Elizabeth W.
Pet Care Tips & Resources
Always consult a licensed veterinarian for medical concerns regarding your pet.*
First Aid Kit 
- Emergency contact information – Keep phone numbers for your veterinarian, the nearest emergency clinic, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center 1-888-426-4435 readily available.
Sterile gauze pads and rolls – Essential for covering wounds, controlling bleeding, and protecting injuries until veterinary care is available.
Self-adhesive bandage wrap (vet wrap) – Keeps bandages secure without sticking to fur or skin.
Antiseptic wipes or pet-safe wound cleanser – Helps clean minor cuts, scrapes, and bites before bandaging.
Styptic powder – Quickly stops bleeding from broken nails or small cuts, especially during grooming accidents.(Amazon)
Activated charcoal – Can help absorb certain toxins if a pet ingests something harmful, but should only be given under veterinary guidance. (Tractor Supply, Amazon)
Digital thermometer – Allows you to check your pet’s temperature if illness, infection, or heat stress is suspected.
Tweezers or a tick removal tool – Useful for removing ticks, splinters, or debris from your pet’s skin or paws.
Blunt-tip scissors – Helps cut bandages or remove fur around a wound safely.
Disposable gloves – Protects both you and your pet from contamination when treating injuries.
- A towel or blanket – Helpful for safely wrapping and restraining an injured or frightened cat, or, belly lifting a dog that has a leg injury.
Unsafe Foods for Dogs and Cats 
*This is a list of popular foods, but not ALL of the foods to avoid*
Chocolate and cocoa products – Chocolate contains Theobromine, which can cause vomiting, seizures, heart problems, and potentially death in pets.
Grapes and raisins – Even small amounts can lead to sudden kidney problems, including Acute Kidney Failure in dogs.
Onions, garlic, and chives – These foods can damage red blood cells and may lead to Hemolytic Anemia.
Alcohol and caffeinated drinks – Substances like beer, wine, coffee, and energy drinks can cause severe nervous system and heart problems in pets.
Xylitol (artificial sweetener) – Found in some sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods; it can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.
Cooked bones and fatty table scraps – These can splinter, causing choking or digestive injuries such as Pancreatitis.
Raw bread dough with yeast – Dough can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol as it ferments, leading to serious complications.
Marijuana/Cannabis Products (edibles, flower) – THC is toxic to dogs and cats and can cause extreme symptoms such as inability to stand, urinary incontinence, lethargy, drooling, dilated pupils, glazed eyes, tremors, seizures, exaggerated startle response, sensitivity to light and sound, and even coma.
Services We Offer
Safe Foods for Dogs and Cats (In Moderation) ✅🐶🐱
Plain cooked chicken or turkey – Lean, unseasoned meat can be a healthy protein source and is often gentle on sensitive stomachs. *Note, Chicken is the #1 allergen for Dogs, some can eat it, some can’t.
Cooked eggs – Provide protein and nutrients when fully cooked and served without oil, salt, or seasoning.
Plain pumpkin (not pie filling) – Supports healthy digestion and may help with mild constipation or diarrhea.
Carrots – Crunchy, low-calorie snacks that many pets enjoy and that provide vitamins and fiber.
Blueberries – Small portions offer antioxidants and make a healthy occasional treat.
Plain rice or oatmeal – Simple grains that can help soothe upset stomachs when served plain.
Seedless apples (no core or seeds) – A refreshing treat that provides fiber and vitamins when given in small pieces.
⚠️ Important: Even safe foods should be given in moderation and without added salt, sugar, butter, or seasoning. When introducing any new food, start with small amounts and monitor your pet for digestive upset.
Cold Weather Safety 
- Limit time outdoors in extreme cold – Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can increase the risk of conditions like Hypothermia and Frostbite. Bring pets inside frequently to warm up.
Provide a warm, dry shelter – If pets spend time outside, make sure they have a well-insulated shelter with bedding that keeps them protected from wind, snow, and moisture.
Protect paws from ice and chemicals – Snow, ice, and road salt can irritate or injure paw pads. Wipe your pet’s feet after walks to remove salt, antifreeze residue, or ice buildup.
Keep pets away from antifreeze – Antifreeze often contains Ethylene glycol, which has a sweet taste but is extremely toxic to pets even in small amounts.
Use pet sweaters or coats for short-haired pets – Small breeds, senior pets, and animals with thin coats may need extra insulation during walks.
Provide plenty of food and fresh water – Pets burn more calories trying to stay warm, so they may need slightly more food during cold months. Ensure water doesn’t freeze outdoors.
Check vehicles before starting them – Cats sometimes crawl under car hoods or near warm engines to escape the cold. Tap the hood or honk the horn before starting your car to prevent injury.
Hypothermia in Animals ❄️
Know what hypothermia is – Hypothermia occurs when a pet’s body temperature drops below normal due to prolonged exposure to cold weather, wind, or wet conditions.
Recognize the warning signs – Common symptoms include shivering, weakness, lethargy, slow breathing, pale gums, and confusion. Severe cases may lead to collapse or unconsciousness.
Bring pets indoors quickly – If you suspect hypothermia, move your pet to a warm, dry indoor environment immediately and wrap them in blankets or towels.
Warm your pet gradually – Use blankets, body heat, or warm (not hot) water bottles wrapped in towels. Avoid direct heat sources such as heating pads or hair dryers.
Dry wet fur promptly – Wet fur dramatically increases heat loss, so gently dry your pet with towels if they’ve been in snow, rain, or icy water.
Contact a veterinarian if symptoms appear – Hypothermia can quickly become life-threatening and may require professional medical treatment.
Prevent cold exposure – Limit outdoor time in freezing temperatures and provide insulated shelters, warm bedding, and protective clothing for short-haired or small pets.
Summer Heat Safety 
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Never leave pets in a parked car – Even on mild days, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly and lead to life-threatening conditions like Heatstroke.
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Provide constant access to fresh, cool water – Hydration is essential during hot weather. Place water bowls in shaded areas and refill them frequently.
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Exercise during cooler parts of the day – Walk or play with your pet in the early morning or evening to avoid peak heat and reduce the risk of overheating.
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Protect paws from hot pavement – Asphalt and concrete can become extremely hot and cause burns. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
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Offer shade and cool resting areas – Pets spending time outdoors should always have shade, airflow, and a cool place to rest, such as a shaded patio or well-ventilated shelter.
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Watch for signs of overheating – Symptoms such as excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, or confusion may indicate heat illness and require immediate veterinary attention.
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Groom appropriately but avoid shaving double coats – Regular brushing helps remove excess fur and improve airflow, but many breeds rely on their coat for natural temperature regulation.
Signs of Heatstroke in Pets
Excessive panting or difficulty breathing – Rapid, heavy panting is often the first sign of overheating and may indicate developing Heatstroke.
Heavy drooling – Thick or excessive saliva can occur as the body struggles to cool itself.
Weakness or lethargy – Pets may appear unusually tired, unsteady, or unwilling to move.
Vomiting or diarrhea – Digestive upset can occur during severe overheating and may sometimes include blood.
Bright red or very pale gums – Changes in gum color may signal poor circulation or heat-related distress.
Confusion, disorientation, or collapse – Advanced heatstroke can affect the brain, causing stumbling, seizures, or fainting.
High body temperature – A pet’s temperature above about 104°F (40°C) can indicate dangerous overheating and requires immediate veterinary attention.
What to do: Move your pet to a cool, shaded area, offer small amounts of water, and begin gentle cooling with cool (not ice-cold) water while seeking veterinary care as soon as possible.
How to Help your Dog Model Good Behaviors 🐶🐾
Establish a consistent routine – Dogs thrive on predictability. Feeding, walks, playtime, and bedtime at the same times each day help reduce anxiety and unwanted behaviors.
Use positive reinforcement – Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or toys. Positive training methods help dogs learn faster and strengthen trust between you and your pet.
Provide enough exercise – Many behavior problems stem from boredom or excess energy. Daily walks, play sessions, and activities like Fetch can help keep your dog physically and mentally satisfied.
Offer mental stimulation – Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent games help prevent boredom and destructive habits such as chewing or digging.
Set clear boundaries and rules – Decide what behaviors are allowed and be consistent. Mixed signals can confuse dogs and slow the training process.
Socialize your dog early – Positive exposure to new people, animals, sounds, and environments helps reduce fear and aggression later in life.
Address problems early – Barking, jumping, or chewing are easier to correct when addressed quickly before they become long-term habits.