Business Details
28 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Comprehensive Pet Care in Fairfax
Founded in 1998 by Amy Mercadante, Affectionate Pet Care has grown from a home-based pet sitting service into a premier 12,000-square-foot facility offering comprehensive pet care solutions. Our team of 80+ experienced professionals is dedicated to providing personalized, affectionate care for pets of all types. We maintain rigorous safety standards with CPR-certified staff and continuous training in pet first aid, behavior, and nutrition. As active members of Pet Sitters International and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, we combine industry expertise with a passion for animal welfare.Our state-of-the-art facility features specialized playrooms and outdoor spaces designed to accommodate diverse pet needs, reflecting our commitment to innovation in cage-free pet care. We support local rescue organizations through donations and foster programs, embodying our philosophy that pets deserve the same love and care as family members.
Services
Cage-Free Boarding
Dog Daycare
Pet Grooming
Dog Training
In-Home Pet Sitting
Pet Transport
Dog Walking
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of experience with 80+ trained pet care professionals
- CPR-certified staff with continuous training in pet first aid
- Customized care plans for individual pet needs
- 12,000-square-foot facility with specialized play environments
- Active partners with local pet rescue organizations
Associations and certifications
- Pet Sitters International
- Association of Pet Dog Trainers
What people say
Outstanding job
Goes above and beyond
Detailed notes
Professional care
Happy pets
Services
Cage-Free Boarding
Our cage-free boarding provides a spacious, social environment for pets with 16,000 square feet of outdoor play areas and specialized indoor playrooms. Trained staff monitor playgroups 24/7 with safety protocols and emergency preparedness. Pets receive personalized care plans tailored to their temperament and social preferences.
Dog Daycare
Daily dog daycare includes structured play sessions in age- and size-appropriate areas with certified professionals monitoring behavior. Enrichment activities and rest periods ensure balanced stimulation. All staff maintain current CPR and first aid certifications for safety.
Pet Grooming
Professional grooming services include breed-specific haircuts, bathing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning using premium products. Our certified groomers handle all breeds with attention to comfort and safety, offering specialized care for anxious or special needs pets.
Dog Training
Custom training programs address basic obedience, behavioral issues, and enrichment activities. Certified trainers use positive reinforcement methods, with options for private sessions or group classes held in dedicated training spaces within our facility.
Pet Transport
Reliable pet transportation services for boarding clients and scheduled appointments. Climate-controlled vehicles with secure containment systems ensure safe travel. Drivers receive training in pet handling and emergency response procedures.
People
Amy Mercadante
Owner/Operator
Founder with 25+ years in pet care, certified Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, and active rescue supporter. Developed facility with 12,000 sq ft indoor space and 16,000 sq ft outdoor areas. Holds certifications in pet first aid and CPR.
Stephanie
Head Groomer
Professional groomer since 1996 with expertise in detailed haircuts and rescue animal care. Certified in pet first aid and actively supports pit bull rescue organizations through volunteer work.
Jennifer Carrick
Certified Dog Trainer
Certified Canine Fitness Trainer with University of Tennessee credentials. Specializes in senior dog fitness and enrichment programs. Develops customized training plans combining physical and mental stimulation for boarding pets.
Greg
Afternoon Shift Manager
15+ years managing playgroups with expertise in dog behavior. Trains new staff in safety protocols and playgroup management. Maintains certification in pet first aid and CPR for emergency preparedness.
Stacey
Grooming Manager
Professional groomer since 2004 with experience handling all dog breeds. Certified in pet first aid and specializes in grooming anxious animals. Manages grooming team training and quality control standards.
Questions
What services does Affectionate Pet Care offer?
We provide cage-free boarding, dog daycare, grooming, training, in-home pet sitting, dog walking, and pet transport services in Northern Virginia.
Are staff members trained in pet safety?
All 80+ staff members receive training in pet first aid, CPR, and behavior management with ongoing education in animal care best practices.
What are your operating hours?
Daycare and boarding available Monday-Saturday 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Pet drop-off must complete by 4:00 PM.
Do you accommodate special needs pets?
Yes, we create customized care plans for pets with medical conditions, anxiety, or specific requirements while maintaining safety protocols.
Is the facility licensed and insured?
We maintain licensing, bonding, and insurance while being active members of Pet Sitters International and Association of Pet Dog Trainers.
