Multi-Species Care: From Dogs to Horses and Everything Between

Most pet sitters handle dogs and cats. Some add small mammals or birds. Very few can confidently care for the full range of animals from working dogs to horses, livestock, fowl, and everything in between. At The Sharp K9, our expertise spans species. Whether you have a single service dog or a small farm with multiple types of animals, we provide knowledgeable, attentive care.

Working Dog Expertise

Working dogs including service dogs, protection dogs, herding dogs, and other professionally trained animals have unique needs. These are not pets who lounge around all day. They need mental stimulation, task practice to maintain skills, structured exercise appropriate to their work, and handlers who understand their training and do not inadvertently undo it. Our team includes professional dog trainers who understand working dog needs and maintain the standards you have established.

Equine Care and Horse Sitting

Horses require specific knowledge that not all pet sitters possess. Daily care includes feeding appropriate amounts of hay and grain on schedule, fresh water access with tank cleaning, stall cleaning or pasture checks, visual health inspections, turnout and exercise as appropriate, and hoof picking and basic grooming. We also recognize signs of colic, lameness, or other equine emergencies and know when to call your veterinarian. Whether you have a single backyard horse or multiple horses with varied needs, we provide experienced equine care.

Livestock and Fowl Management

Chickens, ducks, goats, sheep, pigs, and other livestock each have specific care requirements. Poultry need coop security from predators, fresh food and water daily, egg collection, and monitoring for illness. Goats and sheep require proper feeding, hoof health checks, and attention to signs of parasites or disease. Pigs need appropriate diet, plenty of water, and enrichment. We understand livestock behavior and needs, providing care that keeps your animals healthy and secure.

Exotic and Specialty Animals

Reptiles, amphibians, fish, birds, and small mammals all have unique environmental and dietary needs. Temperature and humidity control for reptiles, specialized diets for exotic birds, aquarium maintenance for fish, appropriate handling for small mammals all require species-specific knowledge. We take time to learn your exotic pets specific requirements and maintain their environment and care routines exactly as you have established them.

The Complexity of Multi-Species Households

Managing a household with multiple types of animals requires coordination and time management. Morning feeding might involve horses, then chickens, then dogs, each with specific routines. Some animals need separation during feeding. Exercise and turnout must be scheduled carefully. Cleaning and maintenance for various enclosures and living spaces takes hours. We handle this complexity efficiently, ensuring every animal receives appropriate care without anyone being rushed or neglected.

Farm and Property Care

Animal care on larger properties includes additional responsibilities beyond the animals themselves. We provide property security checks, mail and package collection, basic plant watering, equipment monitoring like automatic waterers or feeders, and communication about any property issues that arise. Your property and animals are secure under our care.

Emergency Preparedness Across Species

Different animals have different emergency warning signs. A colicky horse needs immediate veterinary attention. A limping chicken might be fine or might need intervention. A lethargic reptile could indicate temperature issues. We know the difference between wait and see versus call the vet now for each species in our care. We maintain your veterinary contact information for each type of animal and do not hesitate to seek help when needed.

Why Species Expertise Matters

Caring for animals you do not understand is dangerous for both sitter and animal. A sitter who does not know horse behavior could be injured. A sitter unfamiliar with poultry might not secure the coop properly leading to predator losses. A sitter without reptile knowledge might not recognize a medical emergency. Our multi-species expertise means your animals receive truly informed care, not someone learning on the job with your beloved animals.

Got more than just dogs and cats? Contact The Sharp K9 for multi-species care from experienced professionals. We handle working dogs, horses, livestock, fowl, and specialty animals with equal expertise.