Ava F.
Erskine Park, IN
Hey there! Need some help?
Pet care experience
Hello! I am a lover of animals and have lots of experience with them. Currently I work for the Potawatomi Zoo full time as their animal dietician! I used to co-teach a companion animal science course at Iowa State so I have lots of knowledge of companion breeds, care, nutrition, training, behavior, reproduction, and more! I would love to help you with any basic training or behavior questions you may have for your cat or dog! I have experience with reptiles, small mammals, exotic animals, and some livestock as well. I might be perfect for you if you have animals that fall into these categories! Feel free to send me a message and we can chat more!
Reviews
Ava watched my Frenchie this past weekend and I absolutely loved her! She sent me text updates and photos, and went above and beyond in caring for my beloved pup! I will definitely use her again. Thank you, Ava! Clover misses you! -LK
Ava was wonderful! She understood Max's medical issues and took great care of him. He trusted her right away and didn't even look back when we left. We don't live in the South Bend area, but I would definitely drive there again to get her expert care.
Ava is absolutely amazing with all animals! She has watched my dog Bronco multiple times and he is always so excited to see her! I trust Ava with all of my pets and would 100% have her watch them anytime. She cares for them like her own and always makes sure to send updates and photos! She is awesome and I would definitely trust her with any animals.
Ava accepted a last-minute request for a long-weekend dogsitting gig, and did a great job taking care of my dog, Sully. My older dog can be wary with new people, but Ava was wonderful with him and he liked her right away. She was very responsive on text and sent me nice updates with photos.
About Ava F.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
First and foremost, when caring for an animal, it is important to understand its basic and unique needs. I want to always set an animal up for success in any situation. This can be behaviorally, mentally, or physically. I want to always be an advocate for your animal! In addition, an animal is always giving us feedback about what it needs and wants. Learning how to understand this feedback and act on it is key!
Home
Information Ava F. would like to know about your pet
Any bite history or reactivity issues are important for me to know but not a deal-breaker. In addition, any fears, medications, special preferences, etc., would be helpful to be aware of.
A typical day
I personally love walking dogs in more nature-filled areas. I can adjust the walk location based on what is most comfortable for your animal. We can also discuss basic training if you are a regular client! As for cats, I am definitely partial to them. I have two of my own and have grown up with them. I love a good kitty snuggle!
Services
Ava can host
Ava can watch in your home
Availability
I currently am working full time at the Potawatomi Zoo so afternoons and evenings work best for me. I am free most evenings and weekends.
About Ava F.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
First and foremost, when caring for an animal, it is important to understand its basic and unique needs. I want to always set an animal up for success in any situation. This can be behaviorally, mentally, or physically. I want to always be an advocate for your animal! In addition, an animal is always giving us feedback about what it needs and wants. Learning how to understand this feedback and act on it is key!
Home
Information Ava F. would like to know about your pet
Any bite history or reactivity issues are important for me to know but not a deal-breaker. In addition, any fears, medications, special preferences, etc., would be helpful to be aware of.
A typical day
I personally love walking dogs in more nature-filled areas. I can adjust the walk location based on what is most comfortable for your animal. We can also discuss basic training if you are a regular client! As for cats, I am definitely partial to them. I have two of my own and have grown up with them. I love a good kitty snuggle!
Location
South Bend, IN
Pets
Ava F.
Erskine Park, IN