(Photo by Christopher and Samantha Cowie)
Pets fill our lives with more joy than our tails can wag. Even if we feel like zero at work, our dogs treat us like heroes when we walk in the door. Cats have a reputation for being aloof, but your kitten’s sweet purrs and nightly nuzzles into your lap prove otherwise.
But sometimes life takes us somewhere else. In that case, you cannot bring your pet with you. Maybe you’ve gotten a new job that requires long hours and no time to go home for a lunchtime walk or cuddle. Or maybe you’ll cross the river and head through the woods to Grandma’s house. However, she is allergic to all things furry.
We live in a time when pet care is in high demand, but we’re looking for more than just a professional who can pass the smell test. You’re looking for someone who can do the difficult job of (mostly) filling your shoes. When it comes to pet care on the North Fork, these experts speak well.
North Fork Pet Sitter, 631-377-0317
Arthur and Judy McCreary’s pet-sitting journey began in 2011 as a favor when they toured the lab of a friend named Cody. Ten years later, a friend gave them another call when a puppy named Nell needed a place to stay for three weeks. My parents, who have owned dogs for many years, said yes without hesitation. The McCreary family was inspired when they saw Nell playing in the pack. What would happen if you opened the door to your dog on a regular basis? Since 2022, they’ve been doing just that. In addition, the two make home visits up to three times a day for dogs, cats, and even small animals in cages such as rabbits and guinea pigs.
Dog Town NY, 40385 County Road 48, Southold, 631-765-8844
This versatile spot in Southold actually lets your dog go to town. Grooming, daycare, and training services are among the services that make the tail wag. If your finicky puppy does not consider a manicure to be a “pamper”, an experienced professional will gently treat it. Team members can also provide home care. We also say “yes” to letting you and your dog accompany you and your dog to special events, such as wedding photography and ceremonies.
Photo by Jeffrey Hornstein Manhattan
Luxury Feet and Pads, 516-448-3663
Posh Paws and Pads takes service to the next level, both literally and figuratively. Let’s start with the latter. Deanna Andes is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS) and is required to attend classes annually on topics such as behavior, first aid, parasites, safety, and first aid. It provides peace of mind for pet parents who were concerned about the lack of industry regulation for pet sitters. Literally, members of Posh Paws and Pads provide in-flight nanny services for newly purchased or adopted pets who need to board a plane before reaching their final destination, home. Wedding night and pet sitting services are also available. Posh Paws and Pads service is available from Batting Hollow to Mattituck.
Photo by Brittany Wisch Schneider
Brittany’s Pet Services, 934-242-7619
Brittany Wish Schneider, the mother of puppies Stanley and Maggie, started pet sitting in 2007. Stanley also attended the wedding. Knowing how important it was to have her furry family member on her big day (and memorable photos), Schneider began offering to have her dog accompany her to ceremonies and photo shoots. She says it’s been one of the most popular services over the past two years. She also offers dog walking, full- and half-day daycare, drop-in visits, transportation (including pappuccinos to Starbucks), overnight care, home boarding (located in Mattituck), and more. Discerning pet parents can feel confident entrusting their furry offspring to Schneider. Schneider is CPR certified, licensed and insured.
All Dogged Up, 25 W Neck Road, 631-749-0702
All Dogged Up in Shelter Island Heights specializes in giving dogs some TLC. The groomer is similar to a dog spa, offering a gentle hand to pets who are nervous about brushing, bathing, and trimming. When it comes to boarding, this is not your grandma’s dog kennel. In fact, it’s not a doghouse at all. Pets have their own bed, are never kenneled, and have access to a 1-acre fenced fun zone. Walking around and socializing is part of the fun, so dogs must undergo a free temperament assessment before a human can book a stay.
Hydrant Hotel, 845 Raynor Ave., Riverhead, 631-740-9359
This spot is a one-stop shop for a host of dog services, including boarding, daycare, grooming, and even training, created by Joseph Secreti, who has more than 30 years of experience educating dogs (and their humans). The facility has indoor and outdoor spaces for playgroups, so even dogs who don’t stand up to personality tests can have some fun one-on-one time. When it comes to boarding, the upgraded experience with real beds and TVs spoils the dog (accommodations may be comparable to those booked on your own). Male dogs must be spayed and female dogs must be neutered to participate in playgroups.
