DOG DAYCARE AND BOARDING
About me
My love of dogs extends back as far as I can remember, when I would scare my mum by saying hello to every dog I passed, big or small. Until I got a dog of my own, I would visit family and neighbours just so I could take their dogs for walks. With the promise that, when we moved to Canada, I could get my ever longed for dog, I made a deal with my mum that she could cut off all my beautiful long hair.​
I've been involved with a Yorkie meetup group for many years and often hear the worry or concerns the members have about boarding/kennelling their dogs, and how hard it's been finding someone they trust.
I've taken these concerns to heart being the mum of two wee dogs, as I know what I would want for them. So I find myself thinking, they always say you should do in life what makes you happy. After years in the corporate finance world of payroll and accounting, I felt it was time to go where my heart lay, dogs.
I have an at home dog daycare which caters to the small and medium sized breeds, given that our own dogs range from 6-18 pounds.
Providing a safe and loving cage-free environment for your dogs, as they will be treated like one of the family. Fully understanding that each dog is different, I know that some may just require that little extra cuddle or a lovely doggy massage and who doesn't love a bum scratch.
The facility has a temperature controlled environment with an air filtration system, over 5000 sq ft of fenced in outdoor space where your dogs will have personalized care and attention and where they can interact and have fun with other dogs.
Fresh filtered water is available at all times in stainless steel bowls which are regularly sanitized. I use the Berkey Water Filtration System
All dogs will undergo a behavioural assessment to ensure they are a fit for our day care and we do require proof of vaccinations or titers.
I am insured, certified in Pet First Aid as well as Pet Care and Daycare Speciality and Practical, constantly updating my skills with dog behaviour courses by Dr. Ian Dunbar.
I also volunteer as a foster parent for Adopt-a-dog-save-a-life.
They are a wonderful organization with some incredily dedicated animal lovers on board.
Make my own treats
I always like to know what my dogs are eating and I now make my own dehydrated treats using only locally sourced grass fed/organic meats and organs. My guests love them too.
Agnes Wintersinger reviewed Lead the Way GTA Dog Services – 5 star
My dog, Hulk, has a liver shunt and issues with bladder stones. Hulk needs medication twice a day along with careful monitoring in case he starts displaying symptoms that a bladder stone is causing him problems. Sandra ensures that he gets his medication properly and is diligent in keeping an eye out for any symptoms. She is very quick and responsive, which is very reassuring. On top of that, my little Hulk loves Sandra. I never have to worry about leaving him there, he's just as happy there as he is at home, (and sometimes doesn't even want to leave)! Highly recommended!
Brittany Lockwood reviewed Lead the Way GTA Dog Services – 5 star
Sandra is fantastic with dogs! She genuinely cares about their wellbeing and it shows in the attention, love and kindness she shows her dogs and the dogs she looks after. I dont trust too many people with my dogs, but I wouldn't hesitate to leave my dogs with Sandra because I know they will be well cared for. Rain or shine, you can find Sandra out walking her pack of dogs and giving them the time they need to enjoy the outdoors, socialize with other dogs and get some exercise. She is very responsible with her pack and makes sure they are well taken care of and gives the dogs the respect and love they deserve. Sandra is very knowledgable about home remedies for dogs and dog food. She keeps up to date with the ongoing research/findings out there and talks to local businesses keep her knowledge current. I highly recommend Sandra for your dog walking/sitting needs, you couldn't ask for a better person to care for your fur-baby. ​
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Donalee Clarke reviewed Lead the Way GTA Dog Services – 5 star
Dear Sandra McLean, You gave Wayne and I the BEST gift ever by looking after our furbabies while we were away the last nine days. The peace of mind that we had in our hearts was nothing we have ever felt before with previous dog sitters we have used. You take caring for dogs to the next level because you base your entire care on how you would want your dogs looked after and in turn, us doggie parents can travel when we need to and know that our furbabies are in the hands of a caring, loving, compassionate, dog loving person ~ YOU!!!! We know your Lead the Way GTA Dog Services is going to flourish big time because of your commitment to excellent, loving care of all furbabies. Thank you again dear friend from the bottom of our hearts. Love Donalee, Wayne, Toto and Princess xoxo
Rebecca Anderson reviewed Lead the Way GTA Dog Services – 5 star
Sandra is amazing! Her natural warmth and love of dogs, combined with her passion and incredible knowledge (let's not forget her great sense of humour), makes Lead the Way an easy choice to drop off your bundles of joy.
We feel completely comfortable that they will be loved and exceptionally well cared for.
Sandra provides a 'home away from home' for our 2 precious Havanese girls. At 18 months and 16 years of age, our dogs have very different needs and they both LOVE Sandra. She provides a safe, healthy, and relaxed environment for our pets.
They have a ton of fun with their friends, exercise in a great play area, and have comfy rests in cozy beds. Our girls come home happy dogs and are always happy to go back.
Sandra provides us with options of flexible daycare, occasional sleepovers so we can enjoy a worry-free night or weekend, and also longer stays that allow us to go away with peace of mind on vacations.
We cannot speak highly enough of Sandra and strongly recommend Lead the Way.