You can have peace of mind knowing your dog is having a long walk (or a short walk if your pet can’t do long ones) getting companionship, exercise, fresh air and sunshine, and a reward of healthy treats, while you are at work, in the hands of a certified professional dog walker. He can sniff all the scents around him with his powerful nose, learning who was there before him, enjoying being a dog, and have respite from the boredom of long hours at home. You’ll come home to your companion who is content and tired, and behaving better because his needs have been met during the day. When dogs are alone in the house all day, they are restless, lonely, sometimes insecure, and their energy becomes pent-up, so they can acquire destructive behaviors, such as barking, chewing, separation anxiety, inappropriate urination. Working dogs were bred to have a job, so modern lives for dogs are frustrating for them. Let me help by providing fun and safe walks for your dog(s).
Regular walks provide much-needed exercise, stimulation, socialization and basic obedience training for your dog(s). I am a graduate of the Dogbiz Dog Walking Academy. I understand how dogs communicate with each other, can read dogs’ body language and know how to prevent fights to keep them safe. Safety is my top priority. Becoming a certified professional dog walker and pet-sitter is not required in the industry; I took a big step beyond in order to keep my clients’ pets safe and happy when in my care. I am also a member of Pet Sitters International, am insured, and have a lifetime of experience caring for animals.
Why not give your dog the best life possible? Our pets don’t live as long as we do! There are too many stories about a relative, friend or hobby pet-sitter losing a dog in their care, or worse. It starts with an initial introduction, then a Meet & Greet, where I meet you and your pet(s) and get to know some things about your dog prior to walks.
You want to keep your family member safe - in the city there are all kinds of things to be aware of: reckless drivers, unleashed dogs, glass in the street, chicken bones, poop not picked up, children walking up to the dog without parent’s permission. Or even passing a dog in the street who may not like other dogs. Positive reinforcement methods help to manage dogs on walks- dogs who may react to other dogs, pull, scavenge, or other behaviors. Not by force or with choke and prong collars, which are known to damage their sensitive tracheas and thyroid! (See my blog post for more on this subject.)
Dog Walking: Fun & Exercise for YOUR DoG, Peace of Mind for You
Peace of mind is yours when at work knowing your dog is able to relieve himself (see my blog on this subject “How long a dog can wait”: very important), getting his excess energy directed in a fun way, getting basic training, and receiving lots of attention. You’ll come home to a relaxed dog who is content to curl up on the couch with you, instead of insisting on you taking him for a 2-hour hike around the neighborhood. A tired dog is a good dog.
Dogs are social animals so being alone for many hours is unnatural for them and against their instincts.. Exercise and fresh air helps keep their body in shape, too, even when they get older. I vary the routes to make it more interesting and stimulating for your dog. I provide daily updates, and photos if desired. Walks are much more beneficial in many ways for dogs than just being let out in the yard, or not let out at all, just made to go on wee-wee pads indoors!
Pet Sitting: Companionship for Your Pet, Peace of Mind for You
Do you feel guilty and stressed leaving your pet while you travel? I can help!
I am an experienced professional pet sitter who will keep your pets safe and happy. There are many instances where pet owners leave their beloved pet with a family member or neighbor, only for it to end in disaster. I am fully equipped to provide personalized, in-home care for your pet in your absence. Leave your worries behind — no more kennels, crates or dangerous situations. Your pet is more comfortable in his own home environment. I treat your pet with the love and respect I show my own pets. I have experience with shy dogs and cats, seniors and special needs pets. I can care for birds, fish, turtles, and other types of pets.