Victoria M.
Elkridge, MD
Rest easy while you're away.
Pet care experience
Hi, I'm Tori. I've been a dog sitter for over 11 years. Like many people I had a dog growing up, but my real experience comes from working in a boarding facility for 2 years while I was in college. My time there allowed me to gain experience with all different types of dog breeds and temperaments. On a daily basis I would walk, feed, conduct play times, administer medications, and just generally care for and ensure the well being of the animals in my care. I have experience with fear aggressive dogs, high needs dogs, dogs who refuse to eat, dogs with anxiety... You name it! Experience also includes happy dogs too :-) Because of my experience, friends began asking me to stay in their homes and take care of their dogs while they were out of town. Through word of mouth I built up a clientele of people entrusting me to stay in their homes and care for their best friends. I did this for several years until I was ready to get a dog of my own. Now my dog Hooligan and I are a team, welcoming dogs into our home and making sure they have the best time possible! I just recently relocated to Newport News from Baltimore, MD with Hooligan and my cat Riff Raff where we went from apartment living to a beautiful 2,000 square foot home with a fenced-in back yard. I also live with my boyfriend, who is an RN and CPR certified. On occasion his 12y/o daughter will stay with us, but she does not live in our home full-time. Dogs rule at our house. I have several beds and dozens of toys and treats thanks to our monthly barkbox delivery. Of course, you are welcome to bring along anything that will make your pups stay more comfortable. I also have several baby gates- as I feel more comfortable keeping newly introduced dogs separated when not at home. I work from home a few days a week so dogs in my care are under constant supervision. I dog sit because I love dogs. I love animals in general. If it paid the bills I would probably have stayed at the boarding facility forever, but my ultimate dream would be to start my own rescue. Perhaps one day, but in the meantime I'd love to meet your pup and have them stay with me for some fun away from home!
Reviews
All I can say is I'm so glad we found Victoria! We don't go away often and my dog sometimes gets anxious in other environments and Victoria was so attentive and caring to make our dog and us completely comfortable. We got detailed updates every day and lots of pictures. I could tell my dog was being taken care of as if I were taking care of him and I was able to completely trust that everything was fine. My dog has also not been around cats before and sometimes doesn't really like to play with dogs, but Victoria felt out the situation with her own pets and made sure all of them were well taken care of. I'm so happy to have found someone I trust for the inevitable times we have to be away from our dog. I can't say enough good things!
This was our best experience in pet care/sitting by far! We had to leave a young puppy while we were away & Victoria did a fantastic job! She provided updates frequently including pictures! Not to mention Molly received so much attention & playtime while we were gone. I can't thank her enough :-)
I am always nervous leaving Andy at a new place. Each time he has been at a kennel, he has come home sick. I thought I would try Rover.com because of this. Boy did I make the right decision! Victoria was wonderful! Andy made himself right at home immediately. Usually he doesn't eat when he is staying away from home. Not this time. He had a hearty appetite. No worries there. Victoria sent us updates and photos to let us know how Andy was doing. It was great. One day I had a problem getting an update. Victoria responded quickly and said she would resend but I ended up finding the post she sent after all. It was a great experience and I will be using her again with no hesitation whatsoever.
Victoria was wonderful with our little Sweetpea. I think Sweetpea enjoyed her stay so much she didn't want to come home.
About Victoria M.
Communication
Skills
Home
Information Victoria M. would like to know about your pet
General temperament, food allergies, any significant medical history, behavior around other dogs and cats, and past experiences with other dog sitters or boarding facilities. I can handle any situation- it's just nice to know what to expect. I have no breed preferences, but because I have a 70lb dog, small to medium dogs are preferable.
A typical day
Here's where we'll take our walks Although I have a fenced-in backyard, I believe it's important to make sure dogs (and I) are well exercised so we will go on daily walks around our neighborhood. Your dog's sleeping arrangement Wherever they want. I have several dog beds or you can bring your own and hooligan sleeps with me in my bed (I gave in.) Most of my dog visitors like sleeping in my bed too- but if you do not want to introduce the habit we can arrange for your pup to sleep anywhere is comfortable. Time I'll spend with your dog As much as possible. I do work a regular 9-5 job, but I work from home a few days a week. Saturdays and Sundays I try to plan a fun outing for my dog, or at least lots of cuddle time. When I am not home I also have a trusted dog walker who comes midday. Part of the fee includes what I pay the dog walker.
Services
Victoria can host
About Victoria M.
Communication
Skills
Home
Information Victoria M. would like to know about your pet
General temperament, food allergies, any significant medical history, behavior around other dogs and cats, and past experiences with other dog sitters or boarding facilities. I can handle any situation- it's just nice to know what to expect. I have no breed preferences, but because I have a 70lb dog, small to medium dogs are preferable.
A typical day
Here's where we'll take our walks Although I have a fenced-in backyard, I believe it's important to make sure dogs (and I) are well exercised so we will go on daily walks around our neighborhood. Your dog's sleeping arrangement Wherever they want. I have several dog beds or you can bring your own and hooligan sleeps with me in my bed (I gave in.) Most of my dog visitors like sleeping in my bed too- but if you do not want to introduce the habit we can arrange for your pup to sleep anywhere is comfortable. Time I'll spend with your dog As much as possible. I do work a regular 9-5 job, but I work from home a few days a week. Saturdays and Sundays I try to plan a fun outing for my dog, or at least lots of cuddle time. When I am not home I also have a trusted dog walker who comes midday. Part of the fee includes what I pay the dog walker.
Location
Elkridge, MD
Pets
Victoria M.
Elkridge, MD