1. **State the problem:** Find the domain and range of the exponential function described. 2. **Recall the general form and properties:** An exponential function typically has the form $$y = a^{x} + k$$ where $a > 0$ and $a \neq 1$, and $k$ is a vertical shift. 3. **Domain:** The domain of any exponential function is all real numbers because you can input any real number $x$ into the function. 4. **Range:** The range depends on the vertical shift $k$. The graph approaches the horizontal asymptote $y = k$ but never crosses it. 5. **Given:** The horizontal asymptote is $y = -4$, so $k = -4$. 6. **Range conclusion:** Since the graph approaches $-4$ from above and rises steeply, the range is $$\{y \mid y > -4\}$$. **Final answers:** - Domain: $$(-\infty, \infty)$$ - Range: $$\{y \mid y > -4\}$$