Ben W.
Ben W.
Highlights
Pet care experience
RSPCA experienced by the beautiful Stray!
I have been around working dogs since I was a child. When I was younger I had the ambition of being a veterinary surgeon and so had to gain animal experience to apply for the course. This included farm work, doing multiple weeks at 2 vet's practices and over a year and a half dog walking for the RSPCA. Since moving to Harrogate many years ago, I have walked and looked after 30 + dogs in the area; including house-sitting and drop-in visits. My job requires me to have a current DBS check in place. I am confident with big dogs as well as small ones and would happily meet beforehand to hopefully put your mind at ease. I am free on weekends all day, although do visit family etc on these days but not on a regular basis.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
I had a great experience with Ben. He replied very quickly to my last minute request and I was pleased with the kindness and update he sent throughout the day. Archie was happy when I picked him up and we will definitely book again.
Good communication and both dogs took to them both after being nervous. They came home tired but happy looking forward to their next visit.
Hi Ben Thanks for looking after Hector again. He had a great time, as always, and is currently sleeping off all the exercise.
Harvey excitedly went in to spend 3 days with Ben & Jane. They are very lovely people who clearly love and understand dogs! Communication before and during the stay is prompt and reassuring…. complete with several photos. Will definitely rebook and recommend 😊
Thanks for looking after Hector again. As always he had a great time.
Harvey visited Ben for day care only. Prior to this we had a meet & greet and Ben was very communicate before and during Harvey’s stay. At drop off he happily went in to Ben’s house and I received an update after about 1 hour saying Harvey had settled nicely. I would definitely book with Ben again for day care or a longer stay.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I mostly work from home (usual office hours). I can walk the dog before and after work, combined with play and scent work during the day.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
Usually, if I were lucky enough to look after your dog, this would involve lots of outdoor exercise (providing the dog is able to). I live very close to the Stray in Harrogate, so if needed it would not be far to quickly bring him or her home briefly for a drink or rest. However, I do drive so would be comfortable walking / looking after wherever your home is. Rover now encourages you now to message more than one person, this is a new feature and it isn't necessary, as I do reply quickly. I take great pride in my reviews and the service I offer. I have so much dog-handling experience and lots of common sense!
A typical day
I believe dogs respond best to calm-assertive energy, exercise and mental stimulation. I enjoy taking dogs on long walks to Yorkshire Showgrounds or to the Stray. It depends on the dog and its age. I'm up early and out for the first toilet breaks and then throughout the day/eve. I use scent work too.