Christel M.
Everett, WA
Stress-Free & Dedicated Pet Care
Pet care experience
Most of my initial experience comes from providing pet care for friends and family, working at animal rescue shelters and helping foster numerous dogs and puppies. I've spent most of my life camping, paddling and hiking with dogs. But over the last three years, my latest dog, Sasha, has truly pushed me to learn what it takes to meet the needs of an intelligent animal who requires so much multi-dimensional stimulation. The time I have spent introducing Sasha to an outdoor world of adventure is what sparked my desire to include other dogs. She is a mix of sensitive and high-energy working breeds so I thoroughly understand all the nuances of a high-maintenance animal and how stressful it can be trying to find someone to care for them like you do. It also helps that my two kids are kind and respectful animal lovers- they have interacted with all different kinds of dogs and also show a passion for the needs of each individual animal. We are a gentle family with a very adventurous side! If you let me treat your dog like I treat my own, I have no doubt they will love it here and come home happy and tired! I am also a stay-at-home mom so I usually have a range of availability and flexibility. I spend a lot of time training and taking my own dog out which makes personalized pet care the perfect fit for my schedule. I use crates when I need to (especially in the beginning for new clients until I know them better) but nothing makes me happier than being able to integrate your pet into my home for their stay. Safety is most important; it would be best if your dog is friendly with other animals, leash-trained and crate-trained. Because I have the advantage of being a stay-at-home mom, I like to be around for the animals as much as possible. But there are times when I do have to go out which makes crating the dogs the best way to ensure everyone stays safe while I'm gone.
Reviews
Christel M. cancelled a booking 2 days before it was scheduled to begin.
Christel provided exceptional care for our senior cat in our home, visiting daily for two weeks. Her dedication was outstanding, and she consistently sent us updates each day. I wholeheartedly recommend Christel without hesitation—she truly exceeded our expectations.
Christel looked after Luna for two weeks, and she was absolutely amazing. She provided daily updates, and I wholeheartedly recommend Christel without any hesitation.
Knowledgeable and professional, great environment for any dog, very personable and willing to work with you to figure out what’s best for your dog!
About Christel M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I live in a spacious and pet-friendly split level where the upstairs is bright and open, usually the busiest area of the house, and the downstairs is cooler and quiet with a lot less traffic. It's the perfect floorplan to separate animals based on their needs, although I haven't met many dogs who aren't happiest following us around upstairs and getting all that sweet family attention!
Home
Information Christel M. would like to know about your pet
Let me know beforehand if your dog has any behavioral obstacles we might need to work around like resource-guarding or leash reactivity. I have handled high-energy puppies, intact males and females, dogs that don't get along, elderly cats that need medication, etc.. I am open to working with any animal as long as there is a safe way to do it.
A typical day
On a typical day, I like to get up early and let my guests out first thing in the morning for about an hour of group play. There's nothing like a dog to wear another dog out! (Especially when it comes to my own dog, Sasha- she is my special weapon- an athletic ball of endless energy!) Then I will crate with breakfast while I get my kids to school. Afterwards, I like to spend most of the day alternating between long walks and backyard play or going somewhere fun like taking a hike or swimming at the river. The dogs also enjoy downtime inside the house after school when the kids are at home, hanging around while I cook dinner. (I'm kind of a sucker for allowing in-door play...) Then I usually try to squeeze in one more evening walk. I live in an older, established neighborhood that is a gem of greenbelts and forested areas. It makes for truly enjoyable walks!
Services
Christel can host
Christel can watch in your home
Availability
My house sits on a corner lot just shy of an acre. We have a fully-fenced backyard with a doggy pool I like to set up in the summer. I also have easy access right outside my neighborhood to many fun outdoors spaces. I have taken client's dogs to the Pilchuk river, the Skykomish, Willis Tucker dog park and more. I will always keep your dog on-leash (unless you and I are both comfortable with an off-leash situation) but I do like to use a long line (15-30ft) which doesn't seem to get in the way of any fun! As long as your dog has basic obedience and manners, I am willing to take them anywhere you are comfortable. No dog should be without outdoor enrichment.
About Christel M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I live in a spacious and pet-friendly split level where the upstairs is bright and open, usually the busiest area of the house, and the downstairs is cooler and quiet with a lot less traffic. It's the perfect floorplan to separate animals based on their needs, although I haven't met many dogs who aren't happiest following us around upstairs and getting all that sweet family attention!
Home
Information Christel M. would like to know about your pet
Let me know beforehand if your dog has any behavioral obstacles we might need to work around like resource-guarding or leash reactivity. I have handled high-energy puppies, intact males and females, dogs that don't get along, elderly cats that need medication, etc.. I am open to working with any animal as long as there is a safe way to do it.
A typical day
On a typical day, I like to get up early and let my guests out first thing in the morning for about an hour of group play. There's nothing like a dog to wear another dog out! (Especially when it comes to my own dog, Sasha- she is my special weapon- an athletic ball of endless energy!) Then I will crate with breakfast while I get my kids to school. Afterwards, I like to spend most of the day alternating between long walks and backyard play or going somewhere fun like taking a hike or swimming at the river. The dogs also enjoy downtime inside the house after school when the kids are at home, hanging around while I cook dinner. (I'm kind of a sucker for allowing in-door play...) Then I usually try to squeeze in one more evening walk. I live in an older, established neighborhood that is a gem of greenbelts and forested areas. It makes for truly enjoyable walks!
Location
Everett, WA
Pets
Christel M.
Everett, WA