I think the key to being a great dog caretaker is to simply enjoy the company of our furry best friends and honor them for who and what they are. It makes me sad when I see adults trying to control their dogs in a way that seems to punish them for not being human. All we can do is make sure they are safe, well fed, and loved unconditionally. I’ve always been an animal lover, wanting to find good homes for the unfortunate ones, and am currently a fur mom to an amazing rescue dog. I found Shavanna at the North Shore Animal Shelter and it was love at first sight. Ten years later, I can’t even begin to imagine my life without her. I know it may seem like we’re the ones finding dogs homes, but I think it’s the other way around! We find our sense of what home is through our relationships with the dogs in our lives. They teach us so much about loyalty, responsibility, sacrifice, and the ultimate kind of love. I’ve always been a caring person, but having dogs in my life made me that much more empathetic and nurturing. My daytime hours are totally open since I work part-time at night, my availability is open and flexible. I’ve been a dog sitter for over a year in New Jersey and have volunteered at several shelters growing up. I have experience training dogs as well as animal CPR, so you can rest assured your beloved pet will be in safe, capable hands. I think dogs get along so well with me because I’m connected to my inner child. I really like to have fun and try not to take myself or life too seriously. I mean what’s the point? The best time of day is when I can totally connect with animals by freeing myself of all the emotions that keep us bound to negativity and stress, and have some hearty laughs. My dog Shavanna mirrors me (or maybe I mirror her) in that we’re both super friendly and we wear our hearts on our sleeves and paws. We’re of the mindset that more is definitely merrier from hugs to treats to friends. I aim to stay fit and active, so I spend a lot of time outside in nature. There’s nothing better than breathing in some fresh air with dogs as eager companions. I have an earnest love of adventure and I relish any new opportunity to connect with as many dogs as humanly possible. Please know that I will adore your pup as if s/he were my own, and your pet’s security and happiness will be my highest priority.