Growing up with a Rottweiler; Sasha and German Shepherd; Bandit, both integral members of the family at the time, my connection with four-legged friends was deeply ingrained. The tradition of Shake and Paw outings post soccer game Sunday—just to window shop and play with them—was a cherished part of my upbringing, fostering a genuine love and appreciation for the companionship of dogs.

Back in Springfield, I shared my newfound passion with my family—my mother, Irma, and sister, Melanie—who rallied behind my vision. Starting with a month-long wait for the first booking, my dedication paid off. In just a year, I bid farewell to other jobs, dedicating myself entirely to the joyous company of dogs. However, several months into my pet-sitting journey, I faced a heartbreaking loss when my childhood German Shepherd, Bandit, a beloved companion who had been part of the family for years, passed away from stomach cancer at the age of 10. Contemplating whether to continue the pet-sitting gig, I discovered that, instead of deterring me, having other dogs around helped me appreciate the job even more. This experience reignited a spark within me, and deepened my passion for pet care.

The communities of Springfield, Summit, Westfield, and Short Hills embraced me and my vision. Alongside my mother and family's assistance, our pet sitting business flourished. Three years after its inception, a couple certifications, and 200+ meet and greets later, we transformed our home into a haven for dogs, complete with gates, crates, toys, and secure outdoor fencing. For three consecutive years, we proudly held the title of the #1 sitter in Union County on Rover.com before transitioning to our own brand in 2021; House of Dogs.

However, success brought challenges. Overwhelming demand led to a full house and the unfortunate need to turn away pet parents. In late 2023, I embarked on a mission to expand the mission of House of Dogs, transitioning from a single-house model to establish New Jersey's most thoroughly vetted and dependable network of pet sitters. Nowadays, Irma and Melanie manage the flagship house, ensuring the legacy of House of Dogs continues to thrive.

Amidst the joyful chaos of dog boarding, a heartwarming chapter unfolded when one of our beloved regulars, a 25-pound Sheltie with short, stubby legs, captured not only our attention but also a permanent place in our family. This delightful soul, Siri, a cherished guest, seamlessly transitioned from a temporary visitor to a permanent resident. Now, alongside the various tails that grace our space, she adds an extra layer of warmth and joy to our family dynamic. This unexpected journey of adoption reaffirms our commitment to not only providing outstanding care but also fostering connections that go beyond the conventional. Siri's story is a testament to the love and trust that define House of Dogs, where every wag and every bark contributes to the rich tapestry of our shared experiences. We are honored to invite you to be a part of our ever-growing family!