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Creating a dream job while spending time with some furry friends

Meet the dog walker behind "Pawsitive Dog Adventures." #k5evening

SEATTLE — Every loving dog owner wants to give their pet what it craves and needs. Walks and companionship are crucial for their health benefits but many pet caregivers don’t have the time to do it daily. This is where professional dog walker services come into play and the perfect situation is finding one who cares for your furry friend uniquely.

Pawsitive Dog Adventures is a company in Seattle with many satisfied customers, especially in the Ballard neighborhood. Owner Autumn Hale is a dog walker with a special connection.

“I can't remember a day that I haven't had a dog in my life,” said Hale. “Every dog has a different personality. I do my best to provide for them.”

Every day, she picks up a large group of her furry clients and takes them for a social walk or playtime at the park. But it is more than just the typical exercise or recreation for a pet; Hale makes sure she provides the attention every dog needs to make the experience more enjoyable. Dogs have different personalities with different emotions, and some of them even have past traumas.  

“German shepherd Sky absolutely loves Autumn,” said customers Kanika and Sean. “We feel very fortunate that we have someone like Autumn who can look after Sky when we are traveling.”

It is not a simple task to keep a big group of lovely four-legged friends entertained for hours – the dog walker has to be very patient.

“She works with each dog to help create a good environment for the whole pack,” said customer Ben Phillips. “She goes out of her way to share if there's a dog in the pack who needs extra well wishes. It's clear she really cares about each of them and goes the extra mile.”

Hale also makes sure she updates her clients on where they are and how their pets are doing with a photo shoot.

“I take pictures to update their families so they can see that their dog is having fun,” said Hale. “I do have a unique job.”

Hale started this business as a single mom in 2011. Part of her decision was to spend more time with her kids. Her oldest son had health issues and having a flexible schedule was a key factor.

“Most of my friends told me that I would never make it,” she said. “My son was sick all the time growing up; I started walking dogs so that he could be with me.”

What started as compassion and care for dogs became a business – a business that brings joy.

“Autumn is fantastic; she has cared for our two golden retrievers, who are now seniors, for over 5 years,” said customer Augusta Butlin. “Their wellbeing is her top priority and she shows love and care for them as if they were her own.”

Pawsitive Dog Adventures offers services such as Social Walks, Off-leash Adventures, Pet Sitting, Overnight Care, Boarding, and more.

“Dogs are therapeutic, they're gentle, they have kind souls," Hale said. “These guys are just my friends.”

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