The longest dog sitting gig I had lasted 16 years. This was for my own canines-- Lola and Maus. Both were happy and healthy all of their lives and they enriched mine beyond measure.This experience afforded me the opportunity to potty train puppies, to leash and obedience train two dogs and to understand how dogs interact with each other in changing and different environments. Towards the end of their lives, I had to adapt to understanding the needs of a geriatric dog such as changes in diet and habits like "selective hearing" and adjusting my expectations of what we could do together. Ten mile hikes became 5 and then two and then a few spins around the block. There was helping my dog in and out of the car and attention to meds and subtle clues to pain or discomfort as she aged and developed arthritis at the end of her life. Since then, in the last few years, I have 'borrowed' my best friend's dog, Skater, who is a chihuahua/pug mix. Skates is full of talents and charm! He excels at snuggling and and can do a handstand while peeing! Skater is 7 years old with no health issues and very few behavioral issues. He needs to be closely supervised in the park, however, as often larger dogs can mistake him for a slightly bloated squirrel. Small dogs have their own set of needs. I keep a closer eye on small dogs because they have natural vulnerabilities. It's not easy being the little guy! ***ANDER HAS AN OFF_LEASH DOG PARK 3 BLOCKS FROM HIS HOUSE!*** This past year I've hosted and cared for all kinds of dogs-- young and old, dogs with dietary restrictions, meds, young alpha males (!) packs as large as seven, many different personalities and shapes and sizes! And many breeds-- German Shepards, Labs, Bulldogs, Pit Bulls, Doberman,Poodles, Chihuahuas, Xolos, Labradoodle, French Bulldog, Portuguese Water Dog, Terriers,Huskies, Hounds, Cattle Dogs ,and beautiful mutts and mixes of many kinds! I don't have any size or breed preferences or bias. With some dogs, depending on their age, size, behaviors, and/or breed , I may want to meet them first. You are always welcome to request a Meet & Greet to size me up as well! **MY PLACE IS 3 MINUTES FROM PDX AIRPORT!** Super easy drop off & Pick up I've been working with dogs-- watching and caring for friends and neighbor's dogs for many years. I became a Rover Dog Whisperer ;) this past summer and I love it! My canine friends are the best. They have so many good life lessons to teach! Like," Hey! The best time to have fun and be in the moment is always NOW!" ***ANDER OFTEN TAKES GROUPS OF DOGS TO 1000 ACRES NATURAL AREA*** Dogs are soothing, loving, intuitive and nonjudgmental companions. I love working with them and do my best to understand them and I really feel I gain just as much and often more from our time together. They sense my natural affinity for them and I'm quick to gain their trust. I can work with your dog on basic training issues and give them opportunities to do well and gain confidence. They will be exercised and attended to and afforded time for snuggles and naps as well. We definitely have fun at my place! There's ball throwing and trips to the park, long walks and quiet times and snacks. I like to take dogs to the Sandy River Delta for nature outings when time and opportunity allows. I find working with groups of dogs to be especially rewarding. Dogs are pack animals who feel supported and at home in a group. I've seen their happiness grow exponentially when the pack is living and playing and eating together. It is a joy. When I am caring for your dog, I will follow your instructions to the letter. I respect your preferences for your dogs diet and care. I'm invested in your satisfaction and try to be a trusted friend to my clients. I will send photos to you at your request -- as many or as few as you like! I usually ask some questions at first and I appreciate all that you can tell me about your dog's needs and behaviors-- even if some are not their most charming :) This just helps me care for them, keep them safe and under control. It makes my life MUCH easier as well! Your good communication is appreciated! Being a Rover exec has really given me a lot of happiness and a chance to be of service to my neighbors and fellow dog-lovers. I hope that you will contact me and give me the opportunity to look after your best friend. *** A note about FEES*** Rover charges by the night. If you have a dog that you send to me in the early part of the day and then pick up on another night, I usually will charge an additional half-day fee. For instance, Mr. Bill drops off CoCo the Wonder Pug at 7am on a Friday and picks her up at 7pm on Sunday. Rover will charge Bill $60 for two nights, I will add $15 because it is also three full days. Mr. Bill's fee would be $75 total. Make sense? Fees are also occasionally negotiable for long stays or other circumstances. Tips are appreciated but not expected. All fees go through the Rover platform and Rover receives 20%.This also goes towards insurance and support services from Rover. Good for you and for me! Thank you for choosing to trust me with your dog!! And thanks for reading!!