When Daycare Isn’t the Right Fit: Introducing Paws Play Walk

Jessica Grant-Jossy
7 days ago
3 min read

When Daycare Isn’t the Right Fit: Introducing Paws Play Walk

I own a dog daycare, so you might think I believe daycare is the best solution for every dog.

The truth is, I don’t.

After more than 10 years working professionally with dogs, I know firsthand that not every dog thrives in a daycare environment. Some dogs love the social aspect and do great playing with a group. Others… not so much.

Some dogs are more introverted and don’t enjoy being around a large group of unfamiliar dogs all day. Some are older and would rather spend their day relaxing than wrestling with puppies. And some dogs simply feel more comfortable in their own home and neighborhood.

Sometimes it’s also just a matter of practicality. Daycare can be a bigger commitment than what a family really needs. Maybe their dog just needs a walk to break up the day while their people are at work.

Over the years, I’ve had many people ask the same question:

“Do you offer dog walking?”

Until now, the answer has usually been no.

But I also know what the other options often look like.

Sure, you can open an app like Wag! or Rover and hire someone to walk your dog. The convenience is great. But the reality is that anyone can create a profile on those platforms and pass a basic background check.

And unfortunately, that doesn’t always guarantee reliability.

I’ve heard plenty of stories from dog owners who were left scrambling because a walker canceled last minute, didn’t show up when they said they would, or simply wasn’t the person they claimed to be online.

Your dog—and your home—deserve more than that.

That’s why we decided to create Paws Play Walk.

This service offers professional dog walking and drop-in visits for dogs who may not attend daycare, who prefer a quieter routine, or who just need a midday break while their people are at work.

Meet Your Walkers

Hi, I’m Jessica, the owner of Paws Play.

I started working with dogs over a decade ago, and during that time I’ve cared for hundreds of dogs of all personalities, sizes, and temperaments. What started as a love for dogs grew into a business built around providing thoughtful, reliable care for the dogs and families who trust us with them.

Along the way, I’ve learned that great pet care isn’t just about loving dogs. It’s about understanding them—how they communicate, what they need, and how to keep them safe and comfortable.

Working alongside me is McKenna, who many of our Paws Play families already know.

McKenna works directly with me at Paws Play and has hands-on experience handling dogs in real-life situations—everything from high-energy players to shy dogs who need a little extra patience and confidence-building. In addition to working alongside me, she has also handled dogs independently while doing walks on her own and through her work with the Humane Society, giving her experience working with a wide range of temperaments and needs.

She also holds professional certifications that support her knowledge of safe handling, dog behavior, and care, bringing both practical experience and formal training to the work she does with dogs.

Before anyone represents Paws Play out in the community, they work directly with me first at the Paws Play House. They learn how we handle dogs, how we approach safety, and the standards we expect from our team.

Because after thirteen years in this industry, I know something for sure:

The people caring for your dog matter just as much as the service itself.

Why We Created Paws Play Walk

Paws Play Walk exists for the dogs who: