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David S.

Frankfort, IL

5 reviews
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Trusting, Trained Pet Behaviorist

Pet care experience

Our pets are more than family to us; they are our children.... essentially, an extension of us. Most animals, especially dogs and cats have always brought me joy and happiness- so working as a Pet Professional fulfills both a purpose and passion. My interest in working professionally with animals began in Graduate School studying "classical" behaviorism and operant conditioning principles across mammals and humans in relative to pathological/behavior issues. Essentially, how do we train "adaptive" behavior through the process of reinforcement and anti-punishment solutions has been a descent amount of my life’s work. So, the journey of "professionally" working with pets began here: using applied behaviorism to encourage the learning acquisition of commands and less maladaptive responses in aggressive dogs. As I do minimum dog training these days, I like to think of myself as a close friend to your pet. In many ways, I am like a therapist for your pet- I have a keen trait to assess your pet’s disposition while fostering wellness through compassionate caregiving. In cases of pets with special needs (including Senior-aged dogs/cats), my holistic studies have procured therapeutic techniques that can improve the quality of your pets life, such as: soft tissue treatment, joint and muscular tensegrity techniques, CST for dogs, and adjunctive physical support in specialized cases. This passion ignited my earlier career as a Dog Trainer and my choices of continued education to later occupations of study to have a true “wholistic” approach for my clients. I have the innate desire to provide comfort to all animal companions who suffer from autoimmune disease to anxiety, arthritis to blindness are just to name a few. Owners’ naturally with good reason worry when their pets face physical and emotional adversity when they are away. Im confident to handle any situation that arises or matters of concern regarding your pet companion. It is my goal to bring loving-kindness and nourishing- attention to your pet relatively speaking as though your in the room with them. Aside from this, I have been asked to provide bereavement services for owners as an Animal Chaplain & Grief Counselor. You can rest assured that you get MORE than just a dog-sitter or dog-walker..... you truly have one of the most qualified, interdisciplinary professionals in the pet industry. In all my services, I find my personality, my clinical and pastoral skills enables me to bond quickly with most pets. I understand animal behavior so I can fully provide an assessment of how your pet companion is really doing - good, sad, depressed, etc. These skills allow me to engage with your pet's safety in mind. In addition, patience and compassion are qualities that assures your pet's physical and emotional needs are supported while any other special requests that you may propose is always welcome. In my care to your pets, I am reliable and flexible with my availability according to my Booking Calendar. It is my ‘personal’ Code of Practice to always keep you posted regularly on the status of your pet while under my supervision. Our contract together is never a one-way dog path of my reports/updates; which should address all your concerns. Yet, please know I’m prompt to respond to any instant concerns you may have- you are always welcome to reach out while I’m caregiving for your dog/cat. My engaged presence of interactions/activities will keep your pet stress-free; my dog/cat bag of toys and treats are always available when needed! (I always will take in account dietary restrictions and activity preferences that you feel is best. *By my own preferences, I will always have grain-free, natural options available* You may bring any food, treats, or toys that are most preferred by your dog/cat. Just let me know! You can find other Qualifications/information about myself below for your review: - Education: I hold Bachelors (Psychology & Pre-Vet Medical Prof. Studies); and Masters (Applied Behavior Analysis & Theology). -Professional Post-Grad. Certificates: Crisis Intervention Counseling; Grief Therapy; and Dog Trainer/Therapy Assistance Programs. - Relevant Board License/Professional Certifications: Holistic Practitioner (Humans/Dogs/Cats/Equine); Behavioral Interventionist; Certified Massage Therapist, Dog&Cat Tissue Manipulation “Trained”- Animal Companion Chaplain; and Life Coach and Conflict Resolution Mediator.

Reviews

Monica T.
Jun 17, 2020

My pooch loves David. Their relationship has grown from the very first meeting. I occasionally need to take a business trip as part of my work... for which I’ll be needing his services again very soon as he is the only sitter that shares the same philosophy about our pets. I like that David is attentive and often very intuitive to Blondie’s (my 8 y/o Goldendoodle) request for food, potty, treats, playtime and rest time. She had bonded instantly. I don’t often request many appointments, but when I do need David he is always there for Blondie with a drop of a hat! Great service you can count on, and I can sense she is well taken care of to the point I question who the real master/owner is!!!!!!! (I have to Giggle) Bottom line, David is wonderful with my Blondie! I hope this helps the determination of prospective Dog Parents searching for a true professional. <3

Lisa T.
Jun 16, 2020

I currently serve as a Sr. Director for a non-for-profit that serves many needs of the community, including Seniors with disabilities. Upon referral of a Staff within our organization suggested that David would be a great help to us and assist with our Pet Bereavement program which requires emotional and spiritual support for our senior residents. Additionally, he has a unique role that he also officiates Pet Memorials for our Senior Residents in Assisted Living. So many patients and staff appreciate the Memorial ceremonies that he graciously arranges for us. I believe you will find comfort in hiring David for any pet-related service. Many residents missed his certified therapy dog, Romeo, when he was alive, who would make patient wellness visits as the Animal Chaplain with David as the skilled, wonderful handler. I have no doubt that David's professionalism goes above and beyond what is expected. David- thank you for your loving care and kindness to our community and their community of pets. Sincerely, Lisa T.

Lori S.
Jun 16, 2020

I am blessed and relieved to have known David and his amazing relationship with our three dogs. They can be a bit rambunctious, but they are very loving dogs. David has patience that is desperately needed, at least for our fur babies. You will adore David! I can assure you that you have nothing to worry about. TRULY, you can have the "peace of mind" needed while your on vacation. Vacations are never the same without David being there for us and our three dogs, who love him terribly! You will not be disappointed! Give him a try with a Meet and Greet! Thank you.... Lori

Helene V.
Jun 15, 2020

David completely embodies the pure love for animals and there always seems to develop a mutual admiration between them! Whether it is a dog, cat, rabbit, wolf, bird etc. they will end up falling in love with each other! I have witnessed this with David and animals repeatedly first hand!

About David S.

Communication

100% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour

Skills

18 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 1 cat
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 2-4 hours

Information David S. would like to know about your pet

Prior to accepting an agreement of Rover-based services, I believe it’s essential to know both each other to some degree and moreover, as much information of your pet(s). Considering, but not limited to: -If your pet is not feeding properly, what are you specific instructions? -Will your pet need medication during my care with them? -What are your pets favorite treats and activities -Does your pet have any allergies? -Is your pet diabetic? -Emergency contact and specified instructions? In the meantime, feel free to contact me regarding any of my services and arranging a possible “service arrangements” as Rover(R) serving as the platform for making arrangements for my Professional “Animal Companion” Caregiving Services.

A typical day

Pet Enrichment is a the heart of all the work of a Pet Professional. It’s essential to know your pet will enjoy their stay with me- I want to know what they enjoy the most... so I’m always open for suggestions. However, with this topic.... there are many trial paths where I live that are safe, and easily assessable for a walk and potty breaks. Within, the Southwest Burbs, there are also several paths with “live” nature escape sounds that all dogs enjoy and the smells that come with walking dogs on trails, preserves, and local pathways. With treat-in-hand and *ready*, a proper reward with praise is always necessary. Depending on your pets preferences, playing fetch, running in a Grand Prairie (w/ leash), treat/hunt games (Kong-brand), and lots of conversations along the way. (I am cognizant that some of this may be better for a younger pet, but more casual strolls for Senior pets.) Few times, I have had dogs enjoy the outside faucet and cold-ready dog treats after long walks! Once, I had a request to take the dog fishing and swimming at an area recommended by the owner. That hasn’t stopped other dog clients to going to my pool when I had access to one. For my cat/kitten clients: Other activities are tunnel mazes, red light laser for chasing, catnip toys, CAT-TV (aka: Discovery/Animal Planet shows) and several cat trees for more needed leisurely time. There are numerous of toys for them to play that I can offer... finding their joy of obsessions is a pure bliss for me. Overall Boarding/Daycare “Premium” Standards of Care: I know how difficult it is to be separated from a pet, even when it is a quick trip to the store. Rest assured, your companion is in the best of care at my boarding and daycare center in my home. Therapeutic care/massage/treatment is always free if you choose so. I provide the following accommodations when your pet stays at my home boarding center include: * Clean bowls and fresh bedding daily * Brushing and grooming spray * Routine feeding and medication administration * Individualized, supervised care at all times (log and photo profile kept during their care) * Spacious runs and guest room are cleaned daily * Unlimited tender and compassionate care * A separate, quiet boarding suite area for cats

Services

Boarding
in the sitter's home
AWAY
House Sitting
in your home
AWAY
Drop-In Visits
visits in your home
AWAY
Doggy Day Care
in the sitter's home
AWAY
Dog Walking
in your neighborhood
AWAY

David can host

Cats
0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs

David can watch in your home

Cats
0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs

About David S.

Communication

100% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour

Skills

18 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 1 cat
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 2-4 hours

Information David S. would like to know about your pet

Prior to accepting an agreement of Rover-based services, I believe it’s essential to know both each other to some degree and moreover, as much information of your pet(s). Considering, but not limited to: -If your pet is not feeding properly, what are you specific instructions? -Will your pet need medication during my care with them? -What are your pets favorite treats and activities -Does your pet have any allergies? -Is your pet diabetic? -Emergency contact and specified instructions? In the meantime, feel free to contact me regarding any of my services and arranging a possible “service arrangements” as Rover(R) serving as the platform for making arrangements for my Professional “Animal Companion” Caregiving Services.

A typical day

Pet Enrichment is a the heart of all the work of a Pet Professional. It’s essential to know your pet will enjoy their stay with me- I want to know what they enjoy the most... so I’m always open for suggestions. However, with this topic.... there are many trial paths where I live that are safe, and easily assessable for a walk and potty breaks. Within, the Southwest Burbs, there are also several paths with “live” nature escape sounds that all dogs enjoy and the smells that come with walking dogs on trails, preserves, and local pathways. With treat-in-hand and *ready*, a proper reward with praise is always necessary. Depending on your pets preferences, playing fetch, running in a Grand Prairie (w/ leash), treat/hunt games (Kong-brand), and lots of conversations along the way. (I am cognizant that some of this may be better for a younger pet, but more casual strolls for Senior pets.) Few times, I have had dogs enjoy the outside faucet and cold-ready dog treats after long walks! Once, I had a request to take the dog fishing and swimming at an area recommended by the owner. That hasn’t stopped other dog clients to going to my pool when I had access to one. For my cat/kitten clients: Other activities are tunnel mazes, red light laser for chasing, catnip toys, CAT-TV (aka: Discovery/Animal Planet shows) and several cat trees for more needed leisurely time. There are numerous of toys for them to play that I can offer... finding their joy of obsessions is a pure bliss for me. Overall Boarding/Daycare “Premium” Standards of Care: I know how difficult it is to be separated from a pet, even when it is a quick trip to the store. Rest assured, your companion is in the best of care at my boarding and daycare center in my home. Therapeutic care/massage/treatment is always free if you choose so. I provide the following accommodations when your pet stays at my home boarding center include: * Clean bowls and fresh bedding daily * Brushing and grooming spray * Routine feeding and medication administration * Individualized, supervised care at all times (log and photo profile kept during their care) * Spacious runs and guest room are cleaned daily * Unlimited tender and compassionate care * A separate, quiet boarding suite area for cats

Location

Frankfort, IL

David S.'s Neighborhood

Pets

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David S.

Frankfort, IL

5 reviews