Business Details
12 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Jacksonville's Premier Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
Founded in 2014 by Doug Keeling, Bad to the Bone Pet Care has established itself as a trusted leader in Jacksonville's pet care industry. Our team of 30+ fully bonded, insured, and federally background-checked professionals is dedicated to providing personalized in-home pet care while uplifting local communities. With Fear Free Certification and training in animal behavior, pet first aid, and photography, we offer dog walking, customizable pet sitting, and local/long-distance pet transportation across five Florida counties.Recognized as Pet Sitters International's 2023 Pet Sitter of the Year, we've donated over 50,000 poo bags to local parks and founded the Northeast Florida Pet Professionals Association to elevate industry standards. Our values of respect, teamwork, and innovation drive our commitment to delivering exceptional care that extends beyond conventional approaches.
Services
Dog Walking
Pet Sitting
Pet Transportation
Pet Photography
Emergency Services
Details
- Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
- Fully licensed, bonded, and insured through Business Insurers of the Carolinas
- Fear Free Certified professionals trained in animal behavior and pet first aid
- Federal background-checked team members
- 2023 Pet Sitter of the Year by Pet Sitters International
- Founded local pet professionals association to raise industry standards
Associations and certifications
- Fear Free Certified
- Business Insurers of the Carolinas
- National Association of Professional Pet Sitters
- Pet Sitters International
What people say
Treated like family
Excellent communication
Pet comfort priority
Trustworthy team
Reliable service
Services
Dog Walking
Customizable solo walks and group play sessions tailored to your pet's energy level and social preferences. Our certified professionals provide safe, stimulating exercise while maintaining strict safety protocols. Each walk includes real-time updates and photo documentation for owner peace of mind.
Pet Sitting
Overnight and drop-in pet sitting services maintaining pets' normal routines in their familiar home environment. Services include feeding, medication administration, playtime, and comprehensive home security checks. Available for multiple pets and special needs animals.
Pet Transportation
Local and long-distance pet transportation with climate-controlled vehicles and trained handlers. Services include vet visits, airport transfers, and cross-country relocations. All drivers complete specialized training in pet safety and emergency response procedures.
Pet Photography
Professional photography sessions capturing your pet's unique personality. Services include themed shoots, lifestyle portraits, and holiday cards with professional editing and digital delivery options. Available as add-on to regular service visits.
Emergency Services
24/7 emergency pet care support for unexpected situations. Trained responders available for last-minute requests, medical emergencies, and critical care situations. Includes immediate communication with pet owners and detailed care documentation.
People
Doug Keeling
Owner & Founder
Business Administration graduate from UNF with Fear Free Certification. Founded Bad to the Bone in 2014 after 10+ years in pet care industry. Recognized as 2023 Pet Sitter of the Year by PSI. Holds bachelor's degree in Business Administration from UNF.
Brenna B.
Operations Manager
Berklee College of Music-accepted professional with virtual assistant business. Manages daily operations while maintaining client care standards. Specializes in administrative systems for pet care companies nationwide.
Amber S.W.
Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
Certified pet care professional with bartending background. Full-time mother of three pets and community volunteer. Recognized for Best of Central Florida 2023 award contribution. Provides service in Plant City area.
Alanna S.
Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
Former US Army helicopter mechanic with pharmacy technician credentials. Specializes in senior pet care and mobile grooming assistance. Military veteran bringing structured care approach to pet services in South Tampa region.
Katharine P.
Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
University of Alabama graduate with First Responder certification. Provides care across Oakleaf area while maintaining focus on pet behavior understanding. Combines emergency response training with animal handling expertise.
Questions
What areas do you service?
We serve Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beaches, Orange Park, Middleburg, Northern Lakeland, Plant City, Eastern Tampa, and surrounding areas across five Florida counties.
Are your staff certified?
All team members are Fear Free Certified, complete federal background checks, and receive training in pet first aid, animal behavior, and safety protocols.
Do you offer 24/7 emergency services?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency pet care with immediate response for urgent situations and last-minute requests.
How do you ensure pet safety?
We use GPS tracking, real-time updates, and comprehensive safety training. All staff maintain certifications in pet first aid and emergency response procedures.
Can I meet the caregiver before service?
Yes, we offer complimentary meet-and-greet sessions to ensure pet comfort and establish personalized care plans.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards, checks, and cash payments with flexible billing options for recurring services.