Alexandria F.
Reno, NV
Vet Assistant and Partner Duo
Pet care experience
Dear Client, We (Alexandria and Alex) are so excited to meet your friend! My (Alexandria) love for animals has always been there from training service dogs, to working at a veterinary clinic, and owning pets of my own. Currently my partner Alex and I have one 18 year old cats as well as a 55 gallon long, 20 gallon, and 15 gallon tall fish/shrimp tanks. We also have a large number of house plants, and are competent in care of that nature. Indirectly through my parents I (Alexandria) have two pet dogs, Noe, who is a Labrador and retired breeder for Canine Companions (CCI) as well as Labelle, is Noe's daughter, who is a current breeder for CCI. I trained Labelle from birth as a service dog and I now enjoy visiting her on trips home to my parents. Tess, our cat, loves to lay in the sun and hang out in my house plant garden/yoga corner. My love of animals started at a young age. As did my partner (Alex) who grew up with three dogs. Alex's dogs growing up were Lupe a German Shepard Collie mix, Sadie a German Shepard, and Rico a black lab mix. We (Alexandria and Alex) moved here from Chico, California for my (Alexandria) PhD in Archaeology at UNR as well as to indulge in the amazing big little city near the mountains that Reno is. Through this degree program I am researching red abalone on the Channel Islands and applying various methods of analysis such as Stable Isotope Analysis and Human Behavioral Ecology. I also hope to build a good relationship with the local tribe, the Chumash, so as to include them in my research as well. The end goal is to apply my paleoenvironmental reconstruction of shell middens on the Channel Islands to current environmental policies and local fishery laws. In the beginning of my (Alexandria) undergraduate degree and prior I dreamed of being a veterinarian and though this is not my career path anymore my love of animals still persists, hence why I choose to study animals in my PhD as an archaeologist. In my previous vet clinic jobs I was a Surgery and Floor Veterinary Assistant at Loomis Basin Surgery Center as well as a Veterinary Willow Rock Veterinary Hospital. In both these jobs I was required to fulfill many fast-paced and independent tasks while still maintaining a calm disposer for the animals. I excel at working as part of a team and have shown my capability at working independent of supervision. In my position at Loomis Basin I helped with patient care before and after surgeries. Here I also helped in preparing peoples pets for surgery by drawing blood, placing I.V. catheters, and giving medications along with many other tasks. Before this position I worked in emergency at Loomis Basin during nights. Following my many years of work at Loomis Basin I worked at a mom and pop clinic called Willow Rock pet hospital, a one vet small practice. At Willow Rock I got to do blood work, help analyze slides under microscopes, do dentals on both cats and dogs as well as work with many GP routine visits. I (Alexandria have also trained service dogs since 2006 for Guide Dogs for the Blind and later on Canine Companions for Independence. Through this I have learned how to properly handle and train dogs, specifically Labradors and golden retrievers. (Ask me about training your dog during your stay, if you want me to reinforce the skills you have already began to train them on during my stay). For clients with dogs: As we are paying for graduate school we do have time or money for a full-time dog, but love taking my cousin's dog (who lives in Sparks) on hikes in Tahoe as well as around the greater Reno area. Though we can't have a dog of our own, we hope to enjoy our time with your animal. If your dog is older, we specialize in older animals, having older pets ourself, and will make sure they feel relaxed and engaged throughout the stay. For clients with cats: Though it may seem we are partial to dogs, as I have trained over a dozen at this point in time and Alex grew up with them, we have a giant soft spot for cats. We love our grey tabby, who will be will loved at home during our stay with your animal. Our cat is older at the age of 18 and I have grown up with her (as well as her brother who passed last year) so I understand the bond that can form with these lovable, "chonky", sweet carnivores... We love them even when they bite us..... because who can help, but loving a cat that cuddles you, purrs, and "loafs" with you. For clients with fish: We have had many freshwater fish over the years (e.g., Bettas, Danios, Rainbow Gudgeons, Plecos, Loches, and both species of shrimp. If you have a complicated tank we know what to look out for and make sure the tank remains in equilibrium and no fish is getting too aggressive with another. We also understand the importance of NOT over feeding a fish. If you have a tank that needs to be watched, feel free to reach out and inquire about our collective house sitting expertise. For clients with amphibians and reptiles: We have never owned a pet in this category (though I would love to get a frog someday), but I (Alexandria) have house sat for animals such as a bearded dragon, a snake, and a turtle. If you have a highly specialized pet please reach out and we can go over your specific care regimen together. I understand the importance of these routines with such sensitive friends. Sincerely, Alexandria Firenzi and Alex Kulp
Reviews
Alexandria did an awesome job. We have three high energy Australian Shepherds . When we arrived home they were well excised and happy. She also took great care of our home! We will be using Alexandria again!
We are so very pleased with the service Alexandria provided us with. She spent 2 weeks with our 4 furry kids. She sent frequent updates about how things were going and also pictures. She was kind enough to water plants for us and took excellent care of the kiddos and the house. We would use her again in a heartbeat. We highly recommend her.
Alexandria was fantastic!! We have emotionally sensitive animals and both cats and the dog were indifferent that we were back (which means they never missed us!!). Our pets have a history of medical issues but because of Alexandria's history in the vet field, I was able to enjoy our vacation and know everyone was well taken care of. Our house was also well taken care of, you couldn't tell 3 animals had lived in it for a week. We will for sure be booking with her again!
Alex took wonderful care of our senior chocolate lab! He takes medication daily and she did a great job keeping up with his meds and asking any questions she had. She replied quickly to my texts and left our house very clean. We are looking forward to booking Alex in the future!
About Alexandria F.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Safety, trust & environment: We care for your pets as if they are my own. Beyond this we will make sure to send updates, pictures, and even videos if you request this. As a previous veterinary major and Veterinary Assistant Alexandria's love of animals is significant. She choose not to continue down this career path as a result of this care, as in this field often we are seeing your animals at their worst which makes it an emotionally difficult career path. This being said, my (Alexandria) love of animals and caring for them persists and I hope I can apply this same care and love when I watch, walk, and or play with your friend(s). For clients with Dogs: As we are paying for graduate school we do not have the money to have our own dog, so, if you are a dog owner, you can be assured that we will be enjoying our time with your animal playing fetch, taking them on walks, as well as caring for them. This includes grooming your pet, should you want your pet brushed or bathed. Beyond my (Alexandria's) love of dogs through the vet I grew up training service dogs so if you have a pet in training or even that requires training, let me know and I can apply these skills in my visit with your pet! For clients with Cats: As the owner of an 18 year old tabby we understand that cats can be complicated, but oh so lovable. Rest assured that when we are caring for your cat that not only do I (Alexandria) know how to handle them in a high stress situation, such as a veterinary clinic, but also in a home where they may want to cuddle at night or even play during the evenings. Alex and I (Alexandria) hope to provide your cat with a safe atmosphere in our stay and make sure they remain in good hands throughout the duration of our stay. For clients with Fish and other non-traditional pets: We know owning a pet such as a fish or even an Iguana can seem odd to our friends and family, but we ourselves have a great appreciation for invertebrates, fish, reptiles, and amphibians. Currently, in this category we own a Betta, Pleco, Neo. and Card. freshwater shrimp, Gudgeons, Loches, Rhasporas, and a variety of freshwater snails (e.g., mystery snail). My partner (Alex), our cat (Tess, and I (Alexandria) all love sitting by the fish tank and interacting with the fish who all have different personalities and are fun to play with. Our previous Betta we even had trained to jump through a hoop for food! Beyond this we know how to deal with complicated animals. So please be assured that we can care for your pet and if this is a creature we have not ourselves house sat previously we are willing to learn and apply your rules in the precise manner they deserve. For example, I understand how easy it is too over feed the fish or even pollute the tank with food. I also understand how important clean hands are (especially not having soap residue) when interacting with such creatures.
Information Alexandria F. would like to know about your pet
Are they potty and house trained? Are there any medical issues we should be aware of such as, but not limited to diabetes, seizures, or heart issues? Do they have any serious medical issues in the last year that required surgery? Are they aggressive towards humans or other animals? Are they prone to eating and getting into things? Do they require any medications? What spaces would they hide in your home if they are not feeling well (e.g., our cat lays in a bath tub when she is feel sick or unwell)?
A typical day
We will play games such as tug of war and keep away. Your dog and I (Alexandria) will also go for runs together or if it fits your dogs personality better a walk and game of fetch work as well. If your dog plays well with others we can also go to enclosed dog parks close to your house to play. If you have a cat we would love to play with them as well, whether this includes taking them for an outing on a leash (ONLY if they are leash trained), playing with some toys, or if your cat is like ours play fetch with scrunchies.. We even understand the importance in interacting with or "playing" with pets such as fish. These creatures all have personalities that require attention which we hope to supply in plentiful amounts, seeing as there will be two of us most of the time and at one of us (Alex) all of the time there to protect your home and your pets/friends. If you have a specific route you would like your animal walked on or a specific park you would like me (Alexandria) to drive them to, these are accommodations I have made in the past and would love to continue with in my stay with your animal. If you require other things around your household during our stay please ask us about these things. As the owner of many house plants (100+ and counting..) we understand that each plant has a different regimen. We even have some of our plants on moss poles and in leca (semi and full hydroponic) so we understand how to care for special cases such as these. This also applies to garden owners, if you have a garden you need cared for during our stay feel free to ask us to do so! This offer to care for your plants gardens and also extends to farm animals. In our pet sitting experience we have cared for chickens and understand the importance of putting them away at night as well as cooling them off on hot days. We have even cared for horses and goats on occasion.
Services
Alexandria can watch in your home
Availability
Current Schedule (as of 07/13/2023): Alexandria and Alex are cumulatively free 100% of the time to watch over your friend and if needed plants, house, and more! Alex (long dark hair) is taking online GIS courses and works from home. He will be your primary care provider staying over night with animals where requested. Alex will take care of your pets regular hourly needs (e.g., food, water, and potty breaks). Alexandria (Short blonde hair) will be the specialty sitter. Alexandria has over 4+ years of experience in the field of veterinary science, giving her the ability to help with medicine dosage when needed, or act quickly and appropriately if any emergency was to take place. Alexandria has also trained service dogs for 12+ years with Canine Companions for Independence and Guide Dogs for the Blind, making her the best sitter for reinforcing good habits when requested (no additional training fees when it is training reinforcement from an outside class). Alexandria has also been house sitting throughout her undergraduate and now graduate school. As graduate school can be stressful, caring for your animal(s) (e.g., taking them on long walks, playing with toys, etc.) is something Alexandria finds much joy in. We believe this adds an extra layer of care that the animals can feel, bringing them further comfort while their owners are out of town. **Disclaimer: 100% availability does not include walking or stop-in visits between the hours of 10pm and 6am.
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About Alexandria F.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Safety, trust & environment: We care for your pets as if they are my own. Beyond this we will make sure to send updates, pictures, and even videos if you request this. As a previous veterinary major and Veterinary Assistant Alexandria's love of animals is significant. She choose not to continue down this career path as a result of this care, as in this field often we are seeing your animals at their worst which makes it an emotionally difficult career path. This being said, my (Alexandria) love of animals and caring for them persists and I hope I can apply this same care and love when I watch, walk, and or play with your friend(s). For clients with Dogs: As we are paying for graduate school we do not have the money to have our own dog, so, if you are a dog owner, you can be assured that we will be enjoying our time with your animal playing fetch, taking them on walks, as well as caring for them. This includes grooming your pet, should you want your pet brushed or bathed. Beyond my (Alexandria's) love of dogs through the vet I grew up training service dogs so if you have a pet in training or even that requires training, let me know and I can apply these skills in my visit with your pet! For clients with Cats: As the owner of an 18 year old tabby we understand that cats can be complicated, but oh so lovable. Rest assured that when we are caring for your cat that not only do I (Alexandria) know how to handle them in a high stress situation, such as a veterinary clinic, but also in a home where they may want to cuddle at night or even play during the evenings. Alex and I (Alexandria) hope to provide your cat with a safe atmosphere in our stay and make sure they remain in good hands throughout the duration of our stay. For clients with Fish and other non-traditional pets: We know owning a pet such as a fish or even an Iguana can seem odd to our friends and family, but we ourselves have a great appreciation for invertebrates, fish, reptiles, and amphibians. Currently, in this category we own a Betta, Pleco, Neo. and Card. freshwater shrimp, Gudgeons, Loches, Rhasporas, and a variety of freshwater snails (e.g., mystery snail). My partner (Alex), our cat (Tess, and I (Alexandria) all love sitting by the fish tank and interacting with the fish who all have different personalities and are fun to play with. Our previous Betta we even had trained to jump through a hoop for food! Beyond this we know how to deal with complicated animals. So please be assured that we can care for your pet and if this is a creature we have not ourselves house sat previously we are willing to learn and apply your rules in the precise manner they deserve. For example, I understand how easy it is too over feed the fish or even pollute the tank with food. I also understand how important clean hands are (especially not having soap residue) when interacting with such creatures.
Information Alexandria F. would like to know about your pet
Are they potty and house trained? Are there any medical issues we should be aware of such as, but not limited to diabetes, seizures, or heart issues? Do they have any serious medical issues in the last year that required surgery? Are they aggressive towards humans or other animals? Are they prone to eating and getting into things? Do they require any medications? What spaces would they hide in your home if they are not feeling well (e.g., our cat lays in a bath tub when she is feel sick or unwell)?
A typical day
We will play games such as tug of war and keep away. Your dog and I (Alexandria) will also go for runs together or if it fits your dogs personality better a walk and game of fetch work as well. If your dog plays well with others we can also go to enclosed dog parks close to your house to play. If you have a cat we would love to play with them as well, whether this includes taking them for an outing on a leash (ONLY if they are leash trained), playing with some toys, or if your cat is like ours play fetch with scrunchies.. We even understand the importance in interacting with or "playing" with pets such as fish. These creatures all have personalities that require attention which we hope to supply in plentiful amounts, seeing as there will be two of us most of the time and at one of us (Alex) all of the time there to protect your home and your pets/friends. If you have a specific route you would like your animal walked on or a specific park you would like me (Alexandria) to drive them to, these are accommodations I have made in the past and would love to continue with in my stay with your animal. If you require other things around your household during our stay please ask us about these things. As the owner of many house plants (100+ and counting..) we understand that each plant has a different regimen. We even have some of our plants on moss poles and in leca (semi and full hydroponic) so we understand how to care for special cases such as these. This also applies to garden owners, if you have a garden you need cared for during our stay feel free to ask us to do so! This offer to care for your plants gardens and also extends to farm animals. In our pet sitting experience we have cared for chickens and understand the importance of putting them away at night as well as cooling them off on hot days. We have even cared for horses and goats on occasion.
Location
Reno, NV
Pets
Alexandria F.
Reno, NV