We are a family-owned, premier doggy daycare, boarding, and grooming facility located in Potomac, MD. Tracy and Hernan are dedicated to creating a fun, safe, and enriching environment where dogs are truly considered family, not just pets. Their passion for pups of all breeds, ages, and sizes has helped their business grow into a household name in the community.
Tracy, a Maryland graduate in International Business and Public Policy, married her high school sweetheart, Hernan. Together, they built a life with two boys and two girls. Before starting Furbabies, Tracy developed a community of puppy playgroups, organized pack walks, and logged over 500 hours of dog walking in her first year. Balancing four children and the needs of her dogs was demanding, but their dream became reality when they moved from Bethesda to Potomac. Hernan left his career in skin cancer surgery to join Tracy in the business, understanding the high stakes involved in caring for animals much like caring for children.
Hernan’s surgical background brings invaluable expertise to Furbabies, infusing the business with precision, discipline, and strategic thinking. Just like in surgery, attention to detail is critical, from monitoring each pet’s health needs to managing playgroup dynamics safely. Emergency situations, whether health-related or behavioral, require calm, quick decision-making, the hallmark of Hernan’s surgical experience. The demanding nature of pet care needs resilience and discipline, qualities Hernan exemplifies, ensuring long-term success and stability. His analytical skills also help develop flexible care systems tailored to each dog’s temperament, energy, and medical needs. A deep respect for animal welfare and ethical standards guides their business, ensuring pet safety remains the top priority. Leadership and clear communication are essential, whether managing staff or reassuring pet owners through trusted relationships. Hernan’s comfort with risk and accountability fosters a trustworthy, confident environment.
Having combined their skills and experiences, Tracy and Hernan finally cracked the code to create a unique daycare using a Montessori-inspired approach for dogs. They focus on positive reinforcement, building social skills in small groups through quality time and subconscious learning. Dogs quickly learn pack leadership fundamentals, if they know their owners provide fun, freedom, and food, they naturally listen and behave well. It’s an approach rooted in kindness, education, and understanding, and it’s become a cornerstone of their success.
For Tracy and Hernan, serving families and their furry loved ones through significant life events is a privilege. They care for puppies as young as four months and celebrate milestones alongside their clients. Over the years, Furbabies has provided homes to military dogs whose owners are deployed abroad and fostered many rescue failures, a testament to their dedication. Of course, the hardest part is saying goodbye when a beloved dog crosses the rainbow bridge, a reminder of the deep bonds they cherish with every pup in their care.
Furbabies is also devoted to community service. They advocate for animal rights and rescue efforts, partnering with local organizations like FOACAS Rescue, founded by Mindy and John Farber, to foster and groom dogs in need. Their mission extends beyond daily care, truly making a positive difference in the lives of animals and families alike.