I have decades of experience with all sizes, breeds and temperaments of dogs. The first love of my life was a large, protective, mixed breed named Lady who slept under my crib from the day I was born and didn't leave my side for the next 7 years. I treat your dog as one of my own, offering cuddles, walks, training, treats, and medication if necessary. I am home all day, have two small dogs and one large dog of my own and am available at all hours if you need to drop your dog off for a few hours, or for boarding while you're away! I am in the process of completing my certification to be a CPDT-KA dog trainer and have participated in many areas of force-free, positive reinforcement training at the intermediate and advanced level. Currently, I am working on my practical hours for the requirement so if you book boarding stays with us, I can offer your dog a number of free solo training sessions throughout the duration of their stay. ** Your dog may, at times, be filmed for the purpose of later evaluation and review. If you prefer that your dog not participate in any training drills, then please advise me ahead of your dog's stay. If you have any questions or requests regarding any aspect of R+ force-free training, do not hesitate to ask me. I will do my best to see what your dog and I are capable of. :) The level of learning will depend on your dog's background, habits, drive and experience with previous training as well as the amount of time we have together. This can involve teaching your dog basic commands (like sit, down, come, leave it) or useful life lessons such as mat training, or building focus. I am also technically adept at trick training (Let me know if you have a specific trick in mind that you would like your dog to learn!) Depending on your dog and the amount of time we have together, I will do my best to teach your dog the trick of your choice! I have lived with, loved and trained a variety of dogs including Border Collies, Lab mixes, Boston Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dobermans, Pit Bulls and Chihuahuas. NOTE: Any training or motivational behaviour techniques in my home center around force-free, positive reinforcement methods only. I do not ever use prong collars, e-collars, or employ any other aversive methods of training. If you use these training methods on a regular basis and expect your sitter/walker to do so, our household would not be a good fit for your pup. Depending on your dog's activity level, he or she will attend group walks with my pack at least 3 times per day, or if you prefer, your dog will have one 1 hour walk solo per day. (*Solo walks are at an additional cost). At times, we may go to the beach and/or other water source like creek or river and the dogs can go for a swim (only if your dog enjoys it). I am well educated in canine biology, behaviour and body language, as well as canine nutrition. If your dog is on a raw diet, I am comfortable feeding it, and have fed it to previous dogs of mine for years (it's not practical for my 3 at this time). I am also content to hang out with couch potatoes on the bed or couch and snuggle! My dogs are friendly and my large dog has been well socialized since puppyhood and is used to playing with all breeds, sizes and temperaments. So, if your dog needs a playmate, she is it! Even if they are a 10 lb chihuahua! You will feel comfortable leaving your babies in my care while you take a much needed break, night out or vacation! For boarding clients, you will receive picture updates and/or maybe a video! Occasionally, you will receive handwritten logs of our adventures. Dog daycare clients receive daily pictures as well. Feel free to ask me any questions about your pets care and I will attempt to put your mind at ease. Feel free to ask me for any further details, or if you have questions, dont hesitate to ask! Looking forward to meeting the newest member of our pack! WHEN YOU HAVE BOOKED: Your dog should come over with: -enough of its current food to last the duration of their stay and their feeding routine instructions -any medication with instructions -collar with tags, and/or harness, and a leash (I don't use retractable leashes as they are too dangerous when walking multiple dogs but I have several regular leashes here that I can use while your dog is with us) . - a blanket or bed or something from your home (an old t-shirt of yours that you have worn around for a day to remind him or her that you are coming back and to make them feel more comfortable during their stay.:) This will help me provide the best loving care for your animal(s) and ensure their happiness with us!