Ben & Mariel N.
Ben & Mariel N.
Contact for Boarding
CA$75 total per night
Highlights
Pet care experience
Home Full Time - Loving Care
Hi! We’re a family of animal lovers who truly understand how much pets mean to the people who love them. For the past 12 years we cared for our high-needs red heeler, who passed away in November 2025. Our home feels a little too quiet without a dog around, and while we’re taking advantage of this season of life to travel a bit more, we miss the companionship of animals deeply. Pet sitting through Rover feels like the perfect way to keep pets in our lives while helping other families feel confident their animals are loved and cared for when they’re away. We have extensive experience with dogs and cats of all temperaments and needs, including senior pets, administering medication, and supporting animals with separation anxiety. After 12 years with a very smart, energetic and sometimes complex heeler, we’re comfortable adapting to each pet’s personality and routine. Our two children (turning 5 and 8 this summer) are calm, gentle, and very respectful around animals. They’ve grown up with pets and understand the importance of giving animals space and kindness. I also work from home and am around most of the time, which allows us to accommodate pets with specific schedules, frequent potty breaks, medication timing, or those who simply need extra companionship. We know how important it is to leave your pet with someone you trust, and we treat every animal in our care like part of the family.
Cat care experience
Ben & Mariel also care for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Mariel has been absolutely amazing with my 8 year old Shepherd. She understands how to manage dogs that can be reactive and is always keeping me updated on her walk, energy level and includes fabulous photos. I can’t recommend Mariel enough! 😊
Ben & Mariel are the absolute best! From the moment we met them we knew our pup was in good hands/paws :) Our puppy had a wonderful time playing with Ben & Mariel's ever-so-gentle dog, Mowdy - he even shared his bed! Ben and Mariel kept in touch just the right amount while we were away - very quick to respond and always with an adorable pic attached. Thanks so much again for making our first time away such a breeze - Kaia looks forward to many happy returns! -Anita, Rudi & Kaia
I would recommend anyone to have Ben & Mariel watch over your dog. They are very caring and give plenty of excersise to your dog. They send pictures everyday showing activities and cute moments. you won't be disappointed at all.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
Pet care fits very naturally into our daily routine because I work from home and am around the house most of the time. This allows me to easily structure the day around a pet’s needs—whether that means regular walks, playtime, medication schedules, or simply providing company for pets who don’t like being alone for long periods. Our family is used to building our routine around animals. For the past 12 years we cared for our red heeler, so daily walks, feeding schedules, enrichment, and attentive care were always part of our day. Even now, our lifestyle is still very home-centered, with lots of time spent outdoors and in the neighborhood, which works well for dogs who enjoy walks and fresh air. Because I’m home throughout the day, I can accommodate pets who need more frequent potty breaks, structured routines, or extra companionship. Animals in our care are part of the flow of our day and receive lots of attention, supervision, and affection.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
I care for every pet according to their individual routine, personality, and needs. Before each booking, I will take the time to learn about your pet’s schedule, preferences, and any special care instructions so I can keep their routine as consistent and comfortable as possible. In our home, pets become part of the household. They receive lots of attention, supervised playtime, walks, and a calm environment. In the warmer months, we have a lovely large fenced backyard which I work from so that your pet may have even more fresh air during the work/school day. Because I work from home, I’m able to provide frequent potty breaks, companionship throughout the day, and careful monitoring—especially for pets who are young, senior, or prone to separation anxiety. We have experience with a wide range of needs, including administering medication, caring for senior pets, and supporting animals who need extra patience or reassurance. My goal is always for pets to feel safe, relaxed, and well cared for—and for owners to feel completely at ease while they’re away.
Pets
A typical day
We love keeping pets happy, active, and mentally stimulated. Depending on each dog’s energy level and personality, we enjoy getting outside for long neighborhood and nature walks, hikes, games of fetch or frisbee, and plenty of playtime. We also like to include enrichment activities that engage a dog’s brain—things like hide-and-seek with toys, scent games, puzzle toys, and simple training or trick practice. These kinds of activities are great for building confidence and helping dogs burn off energy in a positive way. For more relaxed or senior pets, we focus on gentle walks, companionship, and calm interaction so they feel comfortable and cared for. Every pet is different, so we always tailor activities to what they enjoy most—whether that’s an adventurous outing, a backyard game, or just quality time and cuddles.