Meet Mason, founder of CI Dog Walk!
Hi, I’m Mason! I have worked with dogs in this fantastic Santa Barbara dog community in some way or another for the majority of my adult life. Originally from New Hampshire, I moved to Santa Barbara about 15 years ago, and since then have worked with dog daycares, dog groomers, dog photographers, and I currently volunteer at the Shadow’s Fund sanctuary.
One thing that sets me apart is my extensive experience with dogs who don’t necessarily feel comfortable in many different situations. A good part of that experience comes from our own rescue dog Brady. 100 pounds and epileptic, he became unsociable with all other dogs except for his sister, and he was on buckets of medications. To say he was high-maintenance is a big understatement. But this experience taught me so very much, and made me particularly alert to dogs’ anxiety and social cues. A day in the life with Brady meant timed medications, leashed walks while carefully avoiding any new dog interactions, a special diet, sometimes sleepless nights keeping him calm. Yes, we were those people who took days off of work at a time to sit home on the floor with our sick dog. Because there was no one else who could care for him!
I tell this story only to illustrate how normal it is for me to be 100% attentive to a dog’s needs in the most unique of circumstances, and that if you’re in that place, maybe I can help.
If your dogs can’t be around other dogs, they still deserve exercise and fun! If they have special needs, I truly know what that means. Even if your dog is simply over-enthusiastic and has trouble making friends, I can work with them!
Of course I’m happy to work with dogs who simply need to burn off some energy or need some company when you’re unable to be with them. Even the sweetest and easiest of dogs can benefit from a friend who understands other dogs’ social cues and can handle unforeseen situations. Whatever your needs are, you’ve got a reliable helper right here.