I am a longtime dog-owner, myself - I've always owned dogs, as a kid and as an adult. We lost our beloved (senior) cocker spaniel, Mia, this year, after caring for her for many months at home as her health declined. I think this experience has made me more sensitive to caring for older dogs, as well as those with special health concerns - it also makes caring for Rover dogs a special treat for me, since it gives me an opportunity to play with dogs in the neighborhood during this period of time that we're adjusting to life without Mia. I also can give YOUR pup my full love & attention. I'm a busy professional by day, working in Seattle, but am happy to house-sit, take in mail, water lawn/plants, etc.), during your vacation - or just come by in mornings & evenings to walk your dog & let him/her out, feed/water, etc. I just often can't do mid-day walks, due to work (exceptions can sometimes be made on days that I work from home ...I also have a very dog-friendly office, if your pup likes to commute and needs to be with people during the day!). I am stable & trustworthy & can provide personal references outside of this site, if you like. I've also used Rover as a dog-owner for quite some time, so I can provide references from Rover dog-sitters... :) Why I love dog sitting I've been a dog owner since I was a kid - as an adult, I've fostered dogs and also owned Mia, since we rescued her shortly after moving to Seattle. I'm comfortable around all breeds and sizes of dogs (and other pets, if you have them- I have experience caring for cats & reptiles as well!).