Carlisle woman's love for animals grows into pet care business

Jaime Yaukey

Business Name: Petals and Paws Pet Care

Years in business: 7 months

Location: Carlisle

Contact: petalsandpawspetcare.com

Q: Why did you want to start this kind of business?

A: I have always been an avid pet lover and knew I wanted to continue working with them throughout my lifetime. Specifically, I want to make a change with some of the stigmas placed on certain breeds and animals. I am determined to prove many of these stigmas to be false, so Petals and Paws Pet Care is just a start for me. I knew the best way to start my path would be to start by providing care to as many animals and families as possible in order to gain experience and witness the different ways animals can be raised within a family. I have always been very passionate on the belief that no pet is “bad” – every animal simply needs a bit of extra love and attention to thrive. Working alongside so many different animals has led me to attending Highland Canine Training LLC in January 2025 to learn how to train police K9’s, service dogs, aggressive dogs and more, and start my journey to give animals a second chance.

Q: How did you get your start?

A: Growing up, I have always owned pets—from tropical fish, to miniature donkeys, guinea pigs, cats, dogs, you name it. I have been an animal lover for as long as I can remember. Starting with family friends, I started helping with pet care when they went on trips. Eventually, I began providing via Rover, but grew such a large client base that I decided to start an official business. I attended Penn State and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in animal science, which was able to further develop my understanding of all different types of animals and learn how to provide the best care.

Q: What does your business sell or provide?

A: The main services I offer are house sitting, walking and check-ins. I am able to work with any animals, regardless of breed, age or size.

House sitting means I will stay at your home with your pet. I offer overnight sitting or daytime sitting. I offer half hour and hour walks and check-ins, but am willing to work with what you’re looking for. Check-ins typically entail potty breaks, playtime, feeding and whatever else you may want. I recognize that some pets require more attention than others, and am knowledgeable about caring for pets with medical needs. For instance, I have experience caring for a guinea pig with hyperthyroidism and have also provided specialized care for FIV+ cats. Additionally, I am well-versed in the care required for “high-maintenance” or “stubborn” breeds such as bulldogs or huskies. Whether your pet needs special medication, attention or simply a bit of extra love, I am here to provide the care they require. Additional services I offer are cartoonized pet portrait paintings, limited training, hiking excursions, feline and rodent nail trimming and homemade treats.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?

A: The biggest challenge would be the heat. It is very important to make sure pets don’t overheat and have optimal water available; there are some days where it is not ethical to take long walks with pups during the day due to the heat.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do or place in Cumberland County?

A: My favorite thing to do in Cumberland County—apart from meeting so many new pets and families—would be checking out wineries and cideries and painting at Create-A-Palooza.