Dog Sitting Aberdeen

About: My experience in pet care is extensive. From helping raise and train my own family dogs as child, to working at different animal facilities, I have experience in many different/difficult situations I may face. While I lived in New York I worked at a high end Doggy Daycare and boarding facility that prided itself in creating a certified "fear free" environment for dogs. In a daycare setting I handled and monitored up to 25 dogs in a safe and ethical way. I learned how to read different dog body language cues and how to handle small to XL size dogs. I took a lot of pride in the environment I created for my playgroups so dogs could enjoy safe, fun interactions with each other. I also worked as a kennel technician at the same facility. I did potty breaks for up to 50 dogs, cleaned kennels to propers standards and provided enrichment and feeding for all of our guests. I have experience in how to handle aggressive or stand offish dogs in a safe and manageable way. I also learned a lot about animal health and helped provide care for special needs guests who may have disabilities due to age or that were on seizure watch. Any issues or concerns I had health wise were immediately brought to my supervisors so it could be brought to the owners attention. I worked at Resorts Boarding and Play in two different times for about a year and a half total. After my time at this facility I worked at the SPCA Serving Erie County as an animal caretaker. It was here I gained more exposure to different temperaments in dogs and cats and how to work with them while also cleaning their kennels so they had a clean safe space to enjoy. I enjoyed helping all these pets in desperate need and watching them come out of their shells and experience joy more and more. It was one of the most rewarding parts of that job! When I moved to North Carolina I spent a few months working at 7 Lakes Kennels as a kennel technician again. I cleaned kennels and helped pair dogs for daycare play. I handled medicine distribution to dogs who needed it, cleaned potty yards and of course, played with many dogs! I again had previous experience in handling some tougher dogs so I was comfortable in helping others with some guests who had behavioral challenges. I also did feedings for the guests under my care for the day and took everyone out for potty walks at allotted times. Although I have only professionally been in the pet care industry for about 3 years I consider most of my life as experience from also doing all pet care for my animals growing up, including pushing pills for my childhood cat who had issues with kidney function. I fed all my childhood pets morning and night. I handled supplements for my goldendoodle who had hip and joint issues later in life. I have tons of techniques to help dogs take medicine in an enticing manner. I also made sure my dogs received 20-30 minutes of intense exercise a day to meet their large dog requirements as goldendoodles. They preferred playing ball but also enjoyed added on walks. I am sincerely passionate about providing top-notch care to pets and have shown that to many previous employers who always enjoyed my attention to detail and efforts to work with the animals regardless of any behavior issues or health concerns they faced. I am stay at home as of now so I have plenty of free time on my hands. I prefer to be at home rather than out so the only time I gone really is to run errands or be at the gym. I enjoy an active lifestyle so I do walk my dogs a bit or allow them to run around outside and play with them. I have a set feeding schedule for them. Breakfast is 8 am and dinner is 5 pm. I have done both of my dogs basic obedience myself as I'm looking to advance in the dog training field. I hope to start schooling soon to get my certifications. I have used different techniques for both of my dogs as they have different temperaments. I strive to understand my dogs thoroughly and work with them rather than force them into overwhelming situations. We always start small and build from there once they show they understand a concept or become more comfortable in a new environment. Both of my dogs are crate trained. I love them very much but I finds crates are a very helpful tool to help teach self control and give them a space they can call their own. I am happy to follow any instructions you may have for me through a text message or written out on paper. If you have any concerns I am happy to communicate with you while you are away! At one boarding facility we would send out pictures every three days of a fun activity we did with the dogs to help ease owners minds. I am more than willing to do something like that for you everyday! I totally understand the worry of being away from your best friends! I do ask if your dog boards with me that they come with their crate/kennel. I find it a bit easier for a dog to decompress in a new environment if they have something that is familiar for them. Blankets that smell like you are a plus. I am more than willing to clean toys and bedding before you come to pick up your buddy again. If you want feeding done at certain times I'm happy to do that as I have a free schedule just taking care of my home. Walks, playtime and interacting with dogs are must to keep spirits up while you are away so I am happy to provide these services as well! Of course attention and love is given regardless to any pet I am watching! I am comfortable adminstering medication according to labels or any supplements/treats you provide your pets! I ALWAYS listen to and watch dogs for body language cues. I find that respecting dogs leads to a much better relationship between caretakers and friends. I have extensive training through "The Dog Gurus" my first employer provided all employees. This taught me different play styles for breeds, how to monitor health through potty habits and what to look for in concerning poop. I learned the warning signs of seizures and how to handle them as well as what to watch for if a dog may have a parasitic infection. I was also taught signs of stress and techniques to help prevent them through providing familiar scents, toys or approach. I am aware of and use certain skills in approaching nervous dogs-become smaller and less threatening by turning your back slightly and not holding direct eye contact. I always allow a dog to approach me by offering my hand from a distance and letting them decide if they want to interact or not. For dogs who were sensitive or reactive about touch around their neck while working I used a "double slip lead" technique so I wouldn't have to get into their personal space while putting a lead on them. It also made it safer to remove a lead by never having to physically touch the dog, rather gently pull one lead attached around the other and they would both safely slip off the dog. Understanding a dogs temperament and triggers is vital for me to work safely and effectively with any dog I encounter or interact with. Please always offer all information on your dog to me during a meet and greet session. I would rather have "too much" information on your dog than feel like I'm scrambling with questions later on while you are away. I enjoy working with all different types of dogs and love learning about their personalities and things they enjoy. I feel confident in my skill level and experience to provide safe, loving, enjoyable care for all your four legged family members.

“Mary is our new go to gal!! We just moved to the area and she accepted a short notice watch for our pups for the weekend. She handled their meds and love so well and kept us updated with pictures and notes; great and timely communication. She was also super flexible for us when our plans changed. Can’t say enough good things!”

Brittany M.

“Melanie did an amazing job caring for Killy and Laga. She arrived as scheduled and took great care of the dogs and house. I definitely recommend using her services!”

Elisabeth D.

About: I love animals especially dogs! I regularly volunteer at a dog shelter, have owned dogs my whole life, and believe every dog deserves to have the best day ever! I am available for walks, taking them to the park, playing fetch, or coming into your home for visits. I’m a registered nurse who loves to take care of dogs as well! I love walking my own dog and playing with other dogs to make sure they have a happy day I make sure the pets I’m caring for are safe, have water and food, activity, and a comfy place to sit, I am willing to follow your instructions

“Bethany looked after my puppies for the weekend and did a great job taking care of them!”

Blake W.

“Jessica watched our three cats on short notice over the holidays and took great care of them! She was very responsive, reliable, and went above and beyond. I also appreciated how well she communicated. I would definitely ask her to watch our kitties again!”

Sara T.

“Megan was willing to help us out SUPER last minute. So grateful! She was great with communication and any modifications I had she was happy to help. So glad our boys were able to be home versus boarding they are much less stressed and without her it wouldn’t have happened!”

Taylor P.

About: I have very flexible hours and love taking care of pets with walks and lots of cuddles. I own two dogs and a cat that have very lovely lifestyles. Pet sitting works into my schedule because I am retired, and have a part time job working from home. I am up very early every day and am willing to sit with pets for awhile and also walk them. I care for my own pets daily. I am sure that when I leave a home after a drop in that the area is clean and safe for the pet.

“Brittney took care of our two cats as though they were her own. We would definitely hire her again!”

Tristan I.

About: As a US Navy veteran and former firefighter/EMT, I bring a meticulous attention to detail that ensures your pet’s care instructions are followed precisely. You can rest assured that your beloved companion will be cared for on the agreed-upon date and time, and that they are in capable loving hands with me. I possess a profound affinity for animals and have extensive experience in providing care for a diverse range of animal breeds both feline and canine. I have dedicated over 30 years to nurturing animals of various sizes and complexities. My calming demeanor and compassionate approach enable me to treat your four-legged family members with the utmost care and affection. I am currently going back to college that is self paced and have pretty much an open schedule to care for your pets. I utilize my weekends to spend time with my family and prefer not to book pet care on weekends. I possess a professional mindset and work ethic. I will adhere to your care instructions as outlined and demonstrate respect for your property, pets, and time.

“Ann has watched our dog a couple times. Very kind and attentive. My dog tends to be a diva, hates boarding at the kennels, but we leave her with Ann and we come back to a happy dog. Great dog sitter!”

Steph H.

“Bailey once again took great care of Rex! I never worry that he gets the proper attention and care he needs! 11/10 would recommend Bailey for taking great care of your pets.”

Tim F.

About: I will go the extra mile to make sure your pup is well loved, hydrated, fed, and exercised. I am new to the area and am eager to explore with a furry friend that I cannot financially support currently, so I will love and care for it like my own. I just moved to Southern Pines, and am looking for any kind of word I can. My experience having dogs in my house all my life has made me responsible and capable of taking care of any kind of dog. We have a very safe apartment complex that we take long walks around many times a day to keep your pup happy and comfortable. If your dog is also a competent swimmer we have a nearby lake with public swimming spots to enjoy.

About: I’ve been around dogs my entire life, and have been watching them for others since I was in elementary school. Experience with drop in and boarding. I work full time, but work from home and have a flexible schedule! I am able to block my calendar if I know at least one day in advance. I try my best to make sure pets needs are met. I try to limit time in the crate and make sure they’re getting all the playtime they need.

About: I’ve taken care of dogs since I was little. I love working with them and loving them while their pet parents are away. I have about 6 years under my belt with housesitting a dog, about 2-3 dogs at a time. I am available full time from July 8-12th but after that I’m available on Thursdays, Saturday and Sunday full time. I work as a school teacher during the year, so I can help after school hours which is after 4:30pm. I am loving, patient, and respectful while watching your pets in my clients home. I love playing with them, can take them for walks, and cuddling with them. I am confident in schedules and crating the animals when needed and able to keep your animals safe and happy while you’re gone. I will love them and make sure they’re happy and healthy.

“Sitter was able to provide a last-minute booking which came in very clutch! Very appreciative of their flexibility. Will absolutely book with them again!”

Rachael E.

About: I’ve been pet sitting since I was a kid and I absolutely love animals of every kind. I am very active, I have lots of experience with dogs (including fostering 13 dogs and puppies through a local rescue) and I can provide basic training, as well as baths, and lots of love while you are away! My goal for every booking is for your pets to feel like they are the ones going on vacation at the same time their family is :) I also have two dogs as well who loves to play so they will keep each other company during your pup’s stay. I typically go for a walk in the morning and a walk at night with my dog so I can provide lots of exercise if desired! I am also always happy to just provide lots of snuggles if that is more your dog’s speed! I have a large fenced in backyard and I live in a neighborhood with lots of safe sidewalks for walks. I never leave dogs outside unsupervised and provide lots of mental and physical exercise!

“Kristen is absolutely the best pet sitter I’ve experienced. My cats live her and when she is at my home they follow her around like she’s part of the family!”

Ann G.

“We love Ciera and definitely refer her to everyone! We are repeat clients of hers. She’s passionate about caring for our two puppies and even stops by to say hello to them if she’s in the neighborhood caring for other animals.”

Jasmine K.

“Kim is awesome. She took good care of our older dog and went above and beyond caring for him and watching over our home. I’d highly recommend her to anyone. It’s a good feeling to know we have someone so dependable to count on when we leave town to take such good care of our dog.”

Justin Z.