Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Hoskinson.
Hi Amanda, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t something I planned; it unfolded during a very unexpected season of my life. I spent 17 years as an ABA therapist working with children with autism, a role that taught me patience, compassion, and how deeply meaningful individualized care can be. After many years in that field, I transitioned into special education thinking it might be a gentler pace — but life had other plans. I was injured while breaking up a fight in the classroom and suddenly found myself at home, recovering and unsure of my next chapter.
While I was laid up, I signed up on Rover just to keep myself busy and connected. What I didn’t expect was how much joy I felt caring for people’s pets, or how quickly I recognized a real need in St. Augustine for truly personalized, home-based pet care. Families wanted more than a kennel; they wanted a safe, loving, “home away from home” experience for their pets.
That was the spark. From there, Pawsitive Pet Care Services was born — a place built on my background in behavioral care, my love for animals, and my belief that individualized attention makes all the difference. What started as a simple side endeavor grew into a full-time passion and a thriving small business supported by the most incredible community of clients and pets.
Every step since has been a combination of heart, resilience, and embracing the opportunity that came from an unexpected setback. Today, I’m grateful every single day that a difficult chapter led me toward something so fulfilling.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all — but I think most entrepreneurs would say the same. Starting a new business always comes with its own set of challenges, and for me, stepping into an entirely new field meant learning everything from the ground up. I went from working in behavioral therapy and special education to navigating pet care as a full-time profession, so there was a learning curve in understanding industry standards, safety protocols, and best practices for running a service-based business out of my home.
Another hurdle was building the right clientele — people who valued personalized care, respected boundaries, and understood that a small, home-based environment requires structure. Creating that ideal client base took time, consistency, and a lot of communication.
And as with any service business, ensuring that everyone follows policies and procedures was, and continues to be, an ongoing effort. Things like pick-up and drop-off routines, safety rules, and scheduling guidelines are essential for keeping all pets safe and the business running smoothly. Teaching clients the “why” behind those rules has been key.
While the road hasn’t always been smooth, each challenge has helped me refine my systems, strengthen my boundaries, and build the business I’m proud to run today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I provide personalized, in-home doggy daycare and overnight care designed to feel like a cozy, safe “home away from home.” My background in behavioral therapy allows me to understand dogs on a deeper level, and I use that to create a structured, nurturing environment tailored to each dog’s needs.
I’m most proud of the incredible community of clients and pets who have grown with me. What sets me apart is simple: I don’t just watch dogs — I build relationships, offer individualized care, and create a space where every dog feels secure, understood, and loved.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I believe the quality that has contributed most to my success is my commitment to individualized, compassionate care. My background in behavioral therapy taught me patience, structure, and how to truly understand the needs of each dog. Paired with resilience and a strong work ethic, those qualities have allowed me to build a trusted, boutique-style pet care service that puts safety, consistency, and connection first
Pricing:
- Overnighting $80/day
- Doggy Daycare $45/day
Contact Info:
- Website: https://pawsitivepetcareservices.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BtyBcYVTr/
