Alan S.
Washington Heights, NY
Farm-raised Southern Gentleman
Pet care experience
When I was growing up in Virginia, I was surrounded by pets - dogs, cats, fish, horses, sheep - and it was expected that I do my share and take care of them. Raised by a Veterinarian and a Marine Biologist, I was instilled with a love for animals, participating in feeding, playing, grooming, and monitoring their body language and health. Additionally, I have access to a wealth of information and experience that informs my responsiveness and care for pets. Now I am an actor and musician with a flexible schedule and no less love for dogs! The key for me is to engage dogs in physical activity and play so that they live fully and don't feel stagnant. Walks should be fun and safe, going far enough to burn some energy but guided to avoid congestion and hassle. Regularity is also important to make your pet comfortable, so I aim to recreate routine habits that your dog is accustomed to.
Reviews
Alan is reliable and an excellent communicator. My pup loves going on walks with him!
Alan was a great host. I know my dog can be very feisty and active but he exhibited patience with him. I appreciate him and hope he will be able to keep Beckham again.
I boarded my dog with Alan for two weeks and throughout the entire time he complained about her behavior during walks. At first I was happy to share a few pointers and be transparent about her triggers. However as time went on, his complaints didn't waiver. He also questioned my dog's training history and reached out to DogVacay for help. I have a pit mix who is a rescue and requires attention and a firm leader. I'm not sure that Alan fit the bill. He continued to question the circumstances of my life, such as my recent move and recent living history as a means to justify my dog's behavior. I'm not saying he's an unkind person but I certainly didn't appreciate him prying into my business. I'm not sure how extensive his history with dogs actually is because he should've known that some dogs acclimate to new surroundings and people a lot quicker than others. This is a common trait in people as well! Everyone who's ever watched Daisy including her dog walker have never complained to me. Yes, there are some off days but they've been mature enough to correct the issue. Also, when organizing Daisy's pickup Alan commented that I should be no more than 15 minutes early or late than the agreed upon time. I understand everyone has their own schedules but I was in the middle of moving the same weekend so there's no way I could've predicted that I wouldn't arrive early. Alan was overall unprofessional and his attitude is unacceptable from someone doing their JOB.
Alan is extremely professional and was great with our energetic 65lb pup! He really understood her needs as a rescue during the meet and greet (probably because he is the son of a veterinarian!) and supported them as much as possible. The photo AND video updates were great because we could tell that our pup had a great time with him. We definitely look forward to using Alan in the future when it comes to puppy sitting and dog walking. :)
About Alan S.
Communication
Skills
Information Alan S. would like to know about your pet
Some good information to have: Is your dog known to bite or be aggressive? Do they get along with strangers' dogs? Any health problems that restrict activity or movement? Any behavior restrictions/training they must observe regularly?
A typical day
I love finding places for the dogs to move around in the cramped city! Finding some nature in the parks for games of fetch or just to explore are a welcome change of pace.
Services
Alan can watch in your home
About Alan S.
Communication
Skills
Information Alan S. would like to know about your pet
Some good information to have: Is your dog known to bite or be aggressive? Do they get along with strangers' dogs? Any health problems that restrict activity or movement? Any behavior restrictions/training they must observe regularly?
A typical day
I love finding places for the dogs to move around in the cramped city! Finding some nature in the parks for games of fetch or just to explore are a welcome change of pace.
Location
New York, NY
Alan S.
Washington Heights, NY