McKenna

Certified Trainer & Foster Care | 20+ Years Experience

5.0
14 reviews
Costa Mesa, CA
Replies in ~12 hrs
11 parents rebooked

Hi there, my name is McKenna, and dogs are my everything! In addition to always growing up with at least one dog in the home at all times, I started caring for other dogs from a young age! When I was a teenager I started fostering for a non-profit dog rescue— it was my responsibility to look after pups and help train them in obedience & household manners while they waited for forever homes. In 2012, I became a positive reinforcement trainer at a large pet store chain, and helped families train & build bonds with their loving companions. I began pet-sitting professionally around that same time, offering clients peace of mind when they needed someone to look after their pups 🐶! I currently have three of my own dogs, who are great with doggie-visitors. I am still involved in fostering, and usually have at least one in my care while they wait for their happily ever after. Dogs are my everything 💕 I’ve been caring for dogs for over 20 years - I started fostering for rescue around age 15, and professionally I have 15+ years of experience. I’ve worked with all ages and have special experience with medical needs, fearful dogs, reactive dogs, and aggression (although aggressive dogs won’t interact with my personal dogs or other clients’ dogs during stays). What makes my care style unique? Staying with me & my pack is like a daycare experience, but controlled, peaceful, and not overwhelming. My home offers a safe space for pups who may be more timid around other dogs so they can build up their confidence, while also offering playful dogs the opportunity to socialize with stable, well-mannered resident dogs. Dogs who stay in my care must be crate/ kennel trained, or have the ability to be calm & relaxed inside them. Pups get ample time outside of their kennels daily, but for safety, dogs are kenneled for mealtimes, bedtime, while I’m away from home, or to separate play groups.

Inside McKenna's Retreat

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70 photos

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Care Style

🐌Slow introductions with new dogs
🐕Safe social play when appropriate
📖Body language interpretation
🧠Canine behavior expertise
🤝Respects each dog’s boundaries
📅Consistent daily routines

Communication & Introductions

💬Detailed Daily Updates
📸Photo Updates
🎥Video Updates
🐾Trial Daycare Available

Key Skills

🏆20+ years experience
🚑Animal Rescue Worker
🎓Dog Trainer
😰Anxious/reactive dog experience
🐶Puppy care expert (under 1 year)
🦮Large breed specialist (50+ lbs)

Certifications

🎓Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Home Environment

🏡Single-Family Home
📐1,800+ sq ft
🚭Non-Smoking
🚪Dedicated dog room/space
🔒Fully fenced backyard
🌿Large backyard (1,000+ sq ft)