Caryn S.
Caryn S.
Contact for Drop-In Visits
from $30 per visit
Highlights
Pet care experience
🐾 Patience, Play, Peace of Mind
Hi! I’m Caryn (CAR-in), a former zookeeper, professional animal trainer, and lifelong dog lover. With over a decade of professional experience working with animals, from marine mammals and birds to large carnivores, I now focus my passion and expertise on providing compassionate, confidence-building care for dogs of all ages and temperaments. I’ve worked with the Seattle Aquarium, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, and Seattle Humane Society, and I bring a strong foundation in behavior observation, positive reinforcement training, and safe medication handling to every pup I meet. At home, I share life with two dogs who fill my days with joy, gentle chaos, and the kind of perspective only a dog can offer: Tucker, our 65 lb. soulful and cuddly Boxador who happens to be dog-reactive, and Cooper, our 40 lb. playful Hound/Boxer/Boston mix who proudly strutted his stuff in the 2023 Puppy Bowl. Living with a reactive dog has deepened my understanding of behavior, communication, and how powerful patience and empathy can be. I also had the honor of growing alongside Max, our beloved senior miniature schnauzer, who lived to 18 and reminded me daily of the grace and tenderness senior dogs deserve. I offer tailored, loving care for your pet, whether they're curious puppies discovering the world or seasoned seniors needing extra comfort and support. Outside of pet care, I’m an artist and nature lover who enjoys trail running, exploring, and creating artwork inspired by nature. I bring that same sensitivity and presence into every visit, tuning in to the little quirks and big personalities that make each dog unique. From enrichment games to cozy snuggles or jogs around the block, I’m here to provide experienced, heartfelt care tailored just for your dog.
Cat care experience
Caryn also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Pets
Safety, trust & environment
Safety, trust, and comfort are at the heart of every visit. In your home, I take the time to understand each pet’s unique routines, preferences, and emotional needs, from where they feel safe resting to how they like to be approached. Whether I’m providing enrichment, administering medication, or simply offering a calming presence, I always prioritize gentle communication, consent-based interactions, and low-stress handling. My background in behavior observation and positive reinforcement helps me read subtle cues and respond thoughtfully, especially with nervous, reactive, or senior pets. Everything I do, from locking up carefully to maintaining clean, familiar routines, I care for your pet and home as if they were my own. I also know how reassuring updates can be, so I’m always happy to share a note or photo about your pet’s day, if that brings you peace of mind.
Ratings and reviews
We are repeat customers with Caryn! She is so patient with our highly anxious and hyper German shepherd and also loving to our large golden doodle. When we head out of town I feel calm knowing she will take great care of care of our girls.
Best dog walker on Rover!
Excellent care of my two big dogs. Professional dog whisperer. My dogs loved her.
I would highly recommend Caryn to take care of your pet while you are away. I have closely worked with Caryn in a professional animal environment for many years, and she is one of the best individuals I have ever worked with. She has many years of experience providing husbandry care and enrichment to a variety of animals in a professional setting, and with her own pets. Her attention to detail, animal observation, husbandry care, and training skills are outstanding. In addition, she provides amazing customer service and communicates well with everyone she encounters. I have no doubt that Caryn will go above and beyond to make sure your pet will have a safe, enriching, and loving environment while they are in her care!
Caryn has led a lifetime of taking care of animals. Within her career, she has always worked with animals in one way or another, generally via non-profit organizations. She has also had her own pets, ranging from cats and dogs to fish, guinea pigs, and hamsters. Not only that, she has always been willing to go above and beyond to take care of the pets of those closest to her. Whenever I have needed care for my pets, Caryn is the first person I ask. I know that I can trust her to look after my pets as I would, updating me with photos and stories along the way. When I had a sudden family emergency and had no idea when I would be back home, Caryn cared for my cats, dog, and tortoise without hesitation. I never had to worry what was happening back home, because I knew Caryn was giving my pets everything they needed. She has a deep understanding of animal behavior and is incredibly detail oriented, easily recognizing when a critter is even slightly "off." She understands what to look out for to prevent incidents in unpredictable situations and always stays calm in any circumstance. And, she also gives amazing snuggles to any pets that want them! You'll be lucky to have Caryn look after your animals! There's no one better!
You don’t have to watch Caryn work with animals very long to discover how much she loves them and how skilled she is in caring for them. I marvel at how well she connects with animals in both professional and private settings. I highly recommend Caryn as a pet caregiver.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
Pet care is a natural part of my daily rhythm. I work part-time from home, which gives me the flexibility to provide consistent, focused care throughout the day. I'm available every day between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM for walks, runs, play sessions, check-ins, and quiet companionship - whatever suits your pet’s needs and energy level. Whether your pet thrives on enrichment and exercise or just needs a steady, reassuring presence, I’ve got you covered.