Dog Walking Lake Merritt

About: I grew up with all kinds of family pets and including adopting my own puppy at 17. Since moving to Oakland I’ve been lucky to live with several cats and dogs of roommates of all dispositions (both the roommates and their pets) and now my fiancée and I have a perfect baby angel cat son. I’m comfortable with puppies over 3 months old and mostly potty trained, I don’t mind mouthy or jumpy pups and am happy to discourage behaviors according to their training. I’ve had experience with palliative care for two beloved senior dogs that required a little extra help and care and am happy to show your old buddy patience and TLC. Happy to do easy walks around the block or take longer adventures in Oakland’s redwoods! For cats and dogs I am comfortable administering most medications. I’m currently on a long break from full time work and have open week day availability for walks and visits, and can be available weekends with extended notice Ask someone who always wants pictures of my cat, I am happy to send you as many photos of your pet as you would like! I have a keen attention to detail and an above average ability to follow instructions, and I’m happy to do things your way. I have a backseat dog hammock for my car that make sure dogs of all sizes are able to get comfortable.

“Elise did a great job walking my Great Dane mix. She was very energetic and positive, and my dog seemed very comfortable with her. Highly recommend!”

Jennifer B.

About: I love dogs. Plain and simple. Nothing makes me happier or puts a bigger smile on my face than seeing a dog strut down the sidewalk, living its best life, or just stretched out somewhere soaking up the sun. I’ve had the honor of being a dog dad to three pups over the years, and I miss having one around. I’m currently dog-childless, and after recently retiring from a job I had for 32 years, I’ve got a little more time on my hands and, honestly, I’m craving some much-needed dog time. I’m not quite in a position to bring another dog into our family right now, so I figured this might be the next best thing. I’d love to spend some of that time giving your dog some love, getting them out for a good walk, letting them get some exercise, and just hanging out with them. I genuinely enjoy being around dogs. They make me happy, and I think they can tell when somebody really likes them. So I’d love nothing more than to meet your pup, get to know their personality, and make a new four-legged friend. I’ll give them plenty of attention, take good care of them, and probably talk to them like they’re a person. Because, well… they are. At least in my book. I’m retired, so I have a pretty open and flexible schedule these days. I’m available Monday through Thursday from 8am–6pm, and honestly, I can’t think of a better way to spend some of that time than getting outside and hanging out with a dog. I like getting some steps in, getting some fresh air, and having a dog along makes all of that a lot more fun. So pet care fits pretty naturally into my week. I’m happy to work around your dog’s routine and give them some attention, exercise, and companionship while you’re busy. Since I’m offering dog walks, most of my time with your pup will be out getting some fresh air, stepping out on the town, and having a good time. I’ll come to your home, get your pup ready to go, and we’ll head out for a good walk. I’ll follow whatever instructions you leave for me, but mostly I’ll just pay attention to your dog and let them be themselves. Some dogs want to cover some ground, some want to stop and sniff every five feet, and some just want a little extra attention along the way. I’m good with all of it. And when I say I’ll treat your dog like my own, I mean it. My dogs were family, and they were treated like royalty with plenty of love, attention, belly rubs, and affection. Basically, I want your dog to have a great time, feel safe and loved, and be thinking, “When is this guy coming back?”

About: I have a flexible schedule and am booking dog walks and drop-ins! I can accommodate for whether your dog likes more activity or needs a quiet and calm environment. I have experience dealing with dogs and other animals with anxiety and other medical or physical needs. I work from home at my own pace so I can accommodate different needs! Ideally, pet guests can be left at home alone for about an hour for errands and other events that come up. Please provide a crate if your dog cannot be left alone for over an hour. My home is responsible and dog safe with gates to prevent access to the kitchen. My yard is not fenced but I always keep dogs leashed.

“Sophie has been amazing with my girl Rosie as she adjusts to city life. She has made a huge impact on keeping her calm and helping keep her active by giving her good exercise and working with to stay calm and focused while encountering squirrels, other dogs and loud noises on their walks. I have noticed such a change due to Sophie's interventions. Sophie is prompt, communicative and kind. A one of a kind! Rosie adores her!”

Danielle H.

About: Was in a student in the veterinary program, helped cats and dogs, I used to walk my family’s dogs and also dog and cat sat my family and friends pets. I’m only working part time once a week so my availability is open for walking pets any time of the day or week either mornings, afternoons, or evenings. I have cats and my friends dog that both live in my home with me and my friend, they’re both really friendly and behaved, when my friend isn’t home I’ll watch her dog and care for her.

“Jay is great with my little guy and he just loves the special attention he receives. Jay has been walking Chipper for a few months and he looks forward to his daily walks! Knowing that he is well cared for and spoiled while I am at work is such a relief.”

Erin M.

About: Starting eight years ago with our energetic all-black German Shepherd, I have spent the last eight years reliably watching dogs for family, friends, and neighbors. I am currently only working part time. I usually work various shifts betweeb 6 to 3. The days I work change as well. I still have a lot of free time in between. Just check in with me to see if my availability matches the time you are requesting. Im looking forward to taking care of your furry child. 😊 Living in an apartment with nearby dog parks, I offer attentive, active in-home care, utilizing my extensive free time and eight years of experience to provide long daily walks and personalized attention.

“Adam did great with our boxer mix! It was our first time being gone long enough to need a dog walker and it was great to be able to trust Adam with that!”

Allison P.

“Christine is detail-oriented and incredibly caring in her approach! She was communicative throughout, asked good questions as needed, and took extra care to ensure my dog Ellie trusted her and had a good time. An excellent helping hand!”

Holli W.

“Esteban is awesome! He takes good care of Sunny, my terrier puppy. And sends me lots of detailed updates and wonderful photos. Sunny seems very relaxed and happy after walks/hangs with Esteban. Thank you so very much for all that you do!”

Ahna S.

“Friendly, flexible, and wonderful with our husky. Thanks Barbara!”

Andrew W.

About: I’ve been caring for and training dogs for years, and I love helping them feel safe, happy, and understood. One of my earliest challenges was with my parents’ high-energy dog — I successfully trained him not to bolt out the door when it opened 🚪🐕 (no small feat!). That experience taught me the power of patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. 🐶 My Rescue Story I was the sole caregiver for my own rescue dog, who came to me fearful of strangers and unsure around other dogs. Over time, I: • Helped her grow comfortable meeting new people & pups 🤝 • Taught her not to jump on visitors 🙅‍♀️ • Trained her to “check in” with me before leaving for walks 🚶‍♀️ • Built her confidence to stay calm when home alone 💤 💛 Why Dogs Love Me Beyond training, I’m experienced with daily walks, feeding, grooming, playtime, and creating a safe, loving environment. I’m skilled at reading dog body language 🐕‍🦺 so I can keep pups comfortable and stress-free. I’m available on weekends, as well as Mondays and Fridays. I’m also happy to stay over on Monday nights, as long as you don’t need me to stay past 8am the following morning. When I care for pets in your home, I follow your instructions closely to keep their routine consistent. I make sure they have fresh water, regular meals, and plenty of exercise and playtime. I pay close attention to their body language and comfort level, so I can adapt my approach to their needs. I also give lots of affection (if they enjoy it!) and keep their environment clean and safe. You’ll get updates with photos so you know they’re happy and cared for while you’re away.

“Kalen came for the first walk and meeting right on time, actually a bit early! He has something special with animals, both dogs came right up to him and started snuggling; if you knew my dogs you would understand what a big deal this is. He took both of them on the walk and when he came back both dogs looked happy and tired. The dogs stayed with him while he was saying goodbye and the cat now loves him. I would recommend Kalen!”

Tracy J.

“Cliff was great! Very responsive, and took care of our dog very well. He helped train him during the walks. Takes a lot of good photos. Would hire again!”

Matt D.

“Thank you for the last minute walk Cindy. We greatly appreciate it! Glad the pups were more responsive to you. So sorry we didn’t leave enough treats, glad you found the extras.”

Brooke L.

About: I want every dog i walk to have a happy wagging tail when we are together. I have experience walking large and small dogs alike. I have a very flexible schedule Monday thru Friday, mostly in the afternoons and early evenings. I work on weekends so I'm not available then. Since I only do dog walking, I am very careful about encountering other dogs, crossing streets at lights or crosswalks. I pay close attention to their needs as we walk to see if they need petting, treats or to sniff around the area.

“Lulia is amazing. She is responsive, considerate, and great at communicating. I would absolutely recommend her services.”

David K.

About: I have been caring for pets my entire life. I have always had at least two or three cats and dogs or two. I have raised puppies and cared for elderly pets. I have cared for diabetic cats and dogs with cancer. I understand the importance of following pet parents instructions when caring for other’s animals because each pet has very different needs. I am free right now all days but Tuesday which is when I attend classes at SFSU. I am free for dogs walks or dog sitting all days but Tuesday as long as I have a days notice. I live in an apartment with no yard right now down the street from lake Merrit. There is a dog park just 1 block down the street with a fence that I will walk dogs down to 4-8 times a day depending on the needs of the dog. We do have a large apartment and very pet friendly environment.

About: I love providing care that feels personal and full of joy. Animals have always been part of my life, and after years of experience, over 90 bookings and counting; I’ve learned that connection matters most. My goal is to engage and exhaust, because happy dogs are tired dogs. Every visit is about building trust and comfort. When families choose to rebook, it’s more than a service; it’s a relationship built on love, reliability, and understanding. My family works from home. I own a dog; dogs are integrated into every part of my daily and weekly routine. Dogs make me happy. I follow owner instructions. Limiting interactions with strangers decreases the possibility of accidents. Making the decision that guarantees safety is the only option I seek.