Dog Sitting in Nanaimo

About: Having grown up on a farm, I’ve accumulated ample experience with animals. Our household was always bustling with three dogs and four cats, creating a lively and furry atmosphere. Since moving out, I’ve found myself missing the companionship of these delightful creatures. My love for pets extends to my own home, where I thoroughly enjoy their presence. I’ve cared for both family pets and those of non-relatives, ensuring they receive the attention and care they deserve. Regular walks are a part of my routine, and I’m committed to showering your pet with love and affection. 🐾 I am currently a 4th year Global Studies student at Vancouver Island University, making me available on afternoons and weekends to cater to your fuzzy companions’ needs. :) For pet activities, I have a great park with lots of trails right next to my home. Please feel free to ask me more questions if you have any specific concerns.

“I contacted Dorothy months ahead about a drop-in type visit while my husband and I were to be visiting Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, from California for a family wedding. I scheduled with Dorothy to come to our travel trailer in the Living Forest Campground and RV Park for the Meet n Greet to not only meet us, but how to get in our trailer, all about the dogs and their needs. Dorthy listened to all that was needed and then contacted me by text during the scheduled evening when we were gone to let us know she’d been there and handled everything. There were three dogs to walk in two trailers and Dorothy fed each one and took them for walks to get their business done; what a lifesaver she was so that we could be gone for an extended time and all was handled. I recommend Dorothy without hesitation and will use her again if we ever come back to Nanaimo.”

Ellen T.

“Sarah was an amazing sitter for my fur babies. They were well cared for and given care and attention and Sarah was great at communicating and sending photos for each visit. Thank you for taking such good care of Luna and Butttercup!”

Niki R.

About: I’ve had pets my entire life. My daughter has brought home more rescues than I can count ❤️. I have pet sat for friends & family over the years and of course loved & cared for our own pets! I look forward to caring for your fur family member when you have to be away! I currently work full time Monday to Friday. My availability has changed to evenings and weekends. Available starting Fridays at 3:30 pm. Occasionally I will have an extra day (stat) off to make a long weekend getaway happen 😊 Walks and of course lots of love & affection! We do have two cats that are fairly chill and will most likely keep to themselves.

About: I’ve had pets my entire life, giving me a lifetime of hands-on experience caring for animals of all ages and personalities. To me, pets are family, and I believe they deserve the same love, patience, and respect as any other family member. I’ve cared for everything from energetic puppies and curious kittens to gentle senior cats and dogs, and I understand how each stage of life comes with unique needs. I also have experience with reactive dogs and truly understand how stressful it can feel to trust someone else with a pup who needs extra care, patience, and awareness. My goal is always to create a calm, safe, and supportive environment where your pet feels secure and understood. With dogs, I have extensive experience in training, including agility, and I’m happy to reinforce any ongoing training routines you’re working on. While most of my experience has been caring for my own pets and those of close friends and family, I’m excited to expand my services and help more pet parents feel confident, supported, and worry-free while they’re away. I work from home, which means your pet will receive plenty of attention, regular potty breaks, and companionship throughout the day. After work we’ll get a good walk in. They’ll have access to a large, fully fenced yard for safe potty breaks and outdoor time, along with a minimum of one walk daily. Off-leash adventures can also be offered for the right fit. I share my home with two cats and children, so any dog staying with us must be comfortable, gentle, and non-reactive in these environments. For everyone’s comfort and safety, trial meet-and-greets are required for all new boarding clients.

About: I grew up with dogs and cats as a child. As soon as I moved out to Canada, I got my own dog. My kids grew up with all kinds of animals in the house, the animals helped make my house a home. I’ve looked after friends and family pets most of my life and occasionally got paid for it. I took semi retirement early to enjoy life more and work less. I don’t consider caring for a pet a job. I work less the 30 hrs a week so lots of time to care for your pets in your home Lots of exercise, stick to the routine already set up by the owner. Lots of patience as the animal gets to know me and plenty of cuddles along the way. I have experience with seizures and epilepsy

“Melissa was amazing as always, the kitties are so well looked after and even our super shy boy comes out for her! The updates are lovely and I never have to worry about anything :)”

Marissa S.

“What an amazing experience! I was super nervous to leave Sitka for such a long trip. My worries were instantly dismissed when I met barb . Sitka can be a grouchy lil lady and barb handled it with such grace! I loved all the photos that got sent each day!”

Cheyenne C.

About: I have had dogs in my life from the age of 10 and have always made my dogs part of my family. I have a large 175 pound St. Bernard and a heart to match. He is a gentle giant and loves other dogs. I enjoy the company of dogs in my home and my home is their home. I walk regularly and take my dogs with me where ever I go. I always have water in my van for them and never leave them in a hot vehicle. I have a big secure porch and a closed in area for outside exercise. My dogs sleep inside and are most welcome to share my bed room with me at night, although I do respect the restrictions of owners if crates are required. I have grandchildren who visit regularly and they too, being pet owners themselves, love the comfort and companionship of animals and are very loving and kind to pets. My home is big and secure with sliding doors and screens to the outside deck with a secure area in the back to get exercise however, as mentioned, I walk my dogs at least twice a day taking them to off leash areas for plenty of outdoor activities. Pets fit into my daily life perfectly as I already have a dog and a cat. They are fed in the morning and may relax for the a.m. and then travel with me in the car for errands and walks and runs after that. My whole back van is set up for my animals giving them lots of room to stretch out. My pets are well fed and watered. They can lounge in the front of the house, in the back yard, on the deck or on three couches provided for their comfort. Other than that they are with me on a full time basis travelling with me in an air conditioned van until we reach our destinations.

About: I have had the pleasure of being apart of 3 different puppies lives, helping out with my housemates huskies, bernadoodles, and labs and have taken an active role while they grew up. Whenever their owners were away, I was always there to step in and watch over them. As a firefighter for the city of Nanaimo, my schedule is quite flexible. My days off rotate weekly and I can be available to walk or look after your pups almost any given day of the week. I'm naturally patient and observant. Every dog is an individual, and I take the time to learn their unique personality, energy levels, and any quirks they might have. Whether your dog is a high-energy adventurer who needs to burn off steam or a more reserved companion who prefers a leisurely stroll, I adapt my approach to suit them. This also means I'm constantly aware of their body language and surroundings, ensuring their safety and comfort at all times. I understand the importance of sticking to a routine, and you'll always be informed about our walks, from pick-up to drop-off, and how your dog enjoyed their time. I treat every dog as if they were my own, prioritizing their well-being above all else. I incorporate playtime, mental stimulation, and plenty of positive reinforcement into our outings. From navigating busy streets safely to exploring local trails, I ensure your dog gets the exercise and engagement they need to be happy and healthy.

About: I've been taking care of animals for over 10 years now. Neighbours, friends and family have relied on me to walk, feed and all around care for their pets. I'm a certified vet assistant so I am very comfortable giving them medications as well and continuing on any training they might have ongoing. I am currently working at an animal hospital from 8 to 6 from Tuesday to Friday. So they would have to be okay to stay alone for 10 hours if possible if not I can try to let them out after 5 hours. I like to stay at the clients home so that your pet can stay as comfortable as they want. While keeping to their daily routine as much as possible.

“Best pet sitter ever!”

Jeanne & Anna M.

About: I've grown up with animals my entire life, from horses to hamsters and I could never live in a house without something furry and cuddly to love. When I was in high school I opted to find my own placement for work experience rather than the schools list as I really wanted to work in a reptile house. It was fantastic and I made great friends with a King snake who I named Karl. I work mainly nights on a pub so have my days free to walk as many pooches as I can. I have my own four legged friend who is in desperate need of another furry buddy so if yours is as playful as she is they will have the best time. We are also available for boarding for one, child friendly pooch at a time as we have a very confident toddler who loves doggy cuddles! I work from home so the pups will have constant access to the back yard. I tend to do a quick walk around the block in the morning to start the day and a really good walk in the afternoon, usually down to the dam or up to Mount Benson. I care for your pets as if they were my own. Both my partner and myself grew up surrounded by animals and consider ourselves a family of 5. The dogs take just as much of a priority as we do. When we go walking, it’s as a 5; camping, as a 5. You get the picture.

About: I have owned dogs my whole life, cats since I was 10 years old, as well as worked as a vet assistant for 3 years and managed a humane society for 2, in that time I have learned a lot about care for furry friends and how to keep them happy and healthy. I love going on walks and being active, and I’m excited to share that energy with a dog who needs some company. My apartment doesn’t let me have a dog right now, so I’m looking forward to spending time with pups who need love, attention, and fun walks. I am open to pet sitting and drop in visits as well but cannot do boarding unfortunately at the moment. I am currently working a rotating evening schedule, but my shifts do not start until 3pm so I am available on all days before 3 or any time on my days off. I have a cat at home that I do my best to ensure he has the best care that he deserves. I am grateful for the education I received while working as a vet assistant on how to provide the best care for my animals that I would of course have that same mentality towards the care of other animals in my care. I ensure my cat is exercised regularly and stimulated mentally throughout the day to keep him in a good mood and keep his eating area and litter box as clean as possible.

“Alma was easy to communicate with, professional, and respectful of our home. Our kitty absolutely loved her!”

Maia F.

“Kayla did a drop in visit for us and she was awesome from start to finish. She's very communicative and clearly adores animals. I'll definitely use her services again! Thank you Kayla ?”

Jennifer H.

About: I’ve had animals my entire life — from cats and dogs to a variety of farm animals — and caring for them has always been second nature to me. I truly believe dogs are part of the family and deserve to be treated with the same love, respect, and attention as any family member. I’m very active and make sure the dogs in my care get plenty of exercise and enrichment. We go on walks at least twice a day, with longer off-leash adventures on the weekends (when appropriate and safe). Because I work from home, I’m able to provide frequent potty breaks, outdoor time, and lots of attention throughout the day. I’m also happy to drop in for potty breaks if you’re within a reasonable driving distance. Growing up on a farm gave me hands-on experience with all kinds of animals, including keeping chickens on and off over the years. I’m comfortable, confident, and attentive with animals of all sizes and temperaments. I share my home with two very friendly, well-socialized dogs. One is a large senior Lab who spends most of his day happily snoozing, and the other is a young Dachshund who would love a playmate but is just as content relaxing if that’s more your dog’s style. Both dogs are neutered, healthy and kept up to date on vaccinations. Because of this, I do require that visiting dogs are comfortable around other dogs. I have fostered puppies over the years and am comfortable with puppy care as well as administering medication for any health issues. Your pup will be welcomed into our home like one of our own — with love, structure, exercise, and plenty of cozy downtime. 🐾 My days are structured but flexible since I work from home. I’m able to let dogs out in our secure fenced yard for potty breaks as needed throughout the day and always make time for at least one dedicated walk during the workday. After work, we head out for a longer walk to burn off energy and enjoy some fresh air. Between walks, there’s plenty of supervision, companionship, and relaxation time so your pup feels comfortable, cared for, and part of the family all day long. 🐾 Your dog will be welcomed into a calm, loving home with lots of attention and supervision throughout the day. I do have two friendly, well-socialized dogs at home — a laid-back senior Lab and a young Dachshund — so visiting pups must be comfortable around other dogs. We tailor walks to each dog’s comfort level and training, offering on-leash or off-leash outings when appropriate and safe. At night, my dogs typically sleep with me, and there’s plenty of room for extra snuggles if your pup enjoys that too. If you prefer your dog to be crated or follow a specific nighttime routine, I’m happy to stick to your instructions to keep their routine consistent. 🐾

About: I am a nurse by day and dog walker & home sitter by night! Dogs have been a joyous part of my life for over a decade. I love to walk & hike and would love to have more canines to do so with! I have a small chihuahua named Stitch who loves to meet new friends! I also have worked with the Spay Neuter Task force as a volunteer & have experience with dogs with behavior issues. Safety is my number one concern with my dog & yours. I am trustworthy, mature & organized. I would love to take your dog on adventures on this beautiful island! Please message me with any questions I am more than happy to meet for an initial hello! I work a rotation and often have 3 days off in a row & leave on my breaks to let dogs out and for feeding time. Safety is #1. My track record is 100% and I am obsessive about safety with everything from keeping a dog proof home to safety on walks, with other dogs as well as in the vehicle.

About: Excited animal lover with years if experience handling and caring for dogs from mastiffs to chihuahuas! I have lots of experience with training and obedience with puppies or other high energy/drive breeds like cattle dogs. Or send me with a bag of treats and we can work on polite walking, basic obedience or basic trick training. Moved to Nanaimo from the very outdoorsy Squamish in September and missing having animals in my day to day life! will be available anytime before 2:00 on weekdays and can work the occasional weekend if needed:) I love getting outside and getting moving but I’m also happy to connect through play or training. Happy to go on hikes, gentle walks or just throw a ball in a field for a while:).

“Pat was fantastic checking in on our cat while we were away. Great communication and I could tell she really cared for him. We plan to use her services again for sure!”

Isaac E.