Dog Pack Walking Services in Saratoga Springs, NY
Are you looking for a unique and engaging way to exercise your dogs? Look no further than Sunshine Pack Walking! Our pack walking services offer a comprehensive approach to dog wellness, combining physical exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization. Our trusted and experienced pack leader will work with your dogs individually to build trust, teach good leash manners, and ensure they can safely and enjoyably participate in pack walks. With our services, your dogs will not only get the exercise they need, but also the mental and social enrichment they crave. At Sunshine Pack Walking, we’re more than just dog walkers – your pet’s well-being matters to us and it is our mission to leave your dog fulfilled and balanced from each walk. Join us on the journey to happier, healthier dogs, one paw at a time.
Meet The Pack Leader
Karissa Desofi was born a natural animal lover. After graduating from SUNY Plattsburgh in 2010 and adopting her first rescue dog, Nalah, she realized her passion for improving the lives of dogs. Driven by this newfound purpose, she immersed herself in volunteer work at the Saratoga County Animal Shelter and pursued formal education at the New York Academy of Pet Styling in Clifton Park, earning her certification as a professional Dog Groomer. While acquiring hands-on dog grooming experience, she co-founded her first business in 2012 called, Priceless Companions, in Saratoga Springs, NY. Over the span of 11 years, she extended her services to include; pet sitting, dog walking, and caring for a myriad of creatures in the Animal Kingdom.
All while co-owning and operating her first business, she also helped her community by dedicating time in 2014 and 2015 to assisting and organizing a 5k fundraiser, Dash For The Dog Park, for The Friends of the State Park. This organization supported the efforts to construct a dog park fence at Saratoga Spa State Park. As her knowledge and expertise continued to grow, she found her true niche in pack walking—a specialized service she now offers under the banner of Sunshine Pack Walking, named in honor of her current rescue dog, Raya, aka “Raya Sunshine” whose infectious spirit embodies the essence of a ‘Sunshine State of Mind.’ With deep roots in Saratoga Springs, she takes immense pride in serving her community and nurturing the well-being of her clients’ beloved companions.
The Philosophy Behind Pack Walking
Embark on a journey with your furry friend into the heart of pack walking – an experience as natural as the bond between dog and human. At Sunshine Pack Walking, led by Karissa, we open the door to a world where dogs walk, socialize, and thrive in a tranquil, structured environment. For Karissa, pack leadership is more than a title – it’s a commitment forged on the pillars of trust, patience, and unwavering dedication. Through tailored training regimens, she empowers dogs to embrace self-control, conquer reactivity, and soar with newfound confidence. With each step, she fosters a deep connection, laying the groundwork for a harmonious pack dynamic.
But the impact doesn’t end with the walk. The lessons learned reverberate into the home, enriching the bond between dog and family. With routine exercise, structured routines, and boundless love, every dog discovers the path to fulfillment and balance. Yet, Karissa’s dedication extends beyond the walk. She stands as a beacon of support, offering guidance and consultations to pet parents navigating the complexities of dog behavior and training. Here, clients aren’t just clients – they’re family, united by a shared love for their four-legged companions.
Join us at Sunshine Pack Walking, where every wag of the tail is a testament to the transformative power of connection and compassion. Let’s embark on this journey together, one paw print at a time!
Our Services
Karissa conducts pack walks Monday through Friday, with pick-ups typically starting around 8:30 am and walks completed between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.
Dogs are transported in her Chrysler Pacifica, equipped with crates for those preferring their own space during travel. Each day, Karissa oversees two pack walks at varying locations across town, based on your residence. The duration of each walk ranges from 40 to 60 minutes, subject to weather conditions.
Requirements:
- Weekly enrollment for pack participation
- Up-to-date vaccination records or proof of titer testing
- Spaying or neutering is mandatory
* Please note, Karissa has a limited service area. Please inquire to confirm if you’re within her radius.
**Unfortunately, Sunshine Pack Walking cannot accommodate short term services or client’s visiting from out of town.**
Join The Pack!
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Happy Pups Make Happy Parents!
My family is so grateful to Karissa and Sunshine Pack Walking! Our two dogs were members of her first pack in her previous business and we were beyond excited to get walking again with Sunshine. Hudson is a very excitable boxer with tons of energy. He is always thrilled to see Karissa and arrives home from his walks relaxed and tired. Karissa is not only professional, responsible and dependable but also genuine, caring and down to earth. We feel so fortunate to be a part of her pack!
Sharon Aibel
We feel so fortunate to have found Sunshine Pack Walking. Karissa has such command over the pack, but is also incredibly warm at the same time. Our golden retriever loves his pack walks and always comes back happy and tired. She is highly skilled at dealing with the dogs which I really value because my dog isn’t always the best behaved. Karissa is flexible, willing to add services with little notice, and we trust her to have complete access to our house. Can’t recommend enough!
Andrew Barrick
Sunshine Pack Walking has been a member of our pack family for nearly a decade. Karissa entered into our lives when we had our very first first puppy. She is reliable, trustworthy, and a fantastic resource. She loves our dog like she is her own.
Erica C
We have been with Karissa for 10 years and it has been perfect for us and our dog. The routine exercise for our dog has been great. Karissa is reliable, responsible and treats our dog like one of her own. She is accommodating and easy to work with. I highly recommend the service she provides as it is great for your pet and having someone you can trust is fantastic.
Bradley Pastore
Karissa is beyond amazing! Her love for her clients and skill at integrating dogs into the pack is a phenomenal talent. My dog is a little timid/unsure of people and dogs at first so I was admittedly a little nervous at starting with the pack. The interview and integration process eased my pup into it and she now absolutely LOVES her walks and time with Karissa. We can see a difference in her nightly demeanor when she misses a pack walk. Being part of the pack, we have also boarded with Karissa – the care and updates are second to none!