I am a former Veterinary Assistant with experience in a "regular" small animal veterinary clinic (dogs and cats) and in an Avian specialty clinic. I am fully capable of giving your companion medication, specialty diets, etc. should s/he require as such, and am well-versed in caring for both youngsters and aging pets. Same goes for crating, and other habits and necessities that you specify. I live within walking distance of the James River; Shaler and I-and any boarding dogs who enjoy swimming-visit frequently. There are also several green spaces and parks within a few blocks for ball-throwing and general romping. During inclement weather, playtime is conducted indoors, and of course cuddle time is allotted as much as you permit. :) Dogs are not permitted on the sofa and other primary furniture in the house, but are given free reign on all of our beds unless you specify otherwise. If your papa doesn't normally sleep in bed with you, feel free to bring your dog's bedding with you or utilize the orthopedic dog beds I have here. Most importantly, I work exclusively from home, so your companion will have me as their 24/7 caretaker while you are away. You will also have access to me as well via text, phone, and email. All dogs are required to have proof of up-to-date vaccinations, including Bordetella. Psittacines are required to have up-to-date vaccinations as well. All dogs are also required to be neutered and spayed. Rates are $27 per night for boarding, and $17 for each additional pet. Extended stay rate (7+ nights) is $26 per night plus $15 for each additional pet. Holiday rates are $35 per night, and $20 for each additional pet. Since puppies and special needs companions require more attention, rates are a little higher. Please note that due to our home's insurance policy, I am not permitted to house any Pit Bull or Pit Bull mixes. Although I disagree with said "bully breed" policies, I must legally abide by them regardless. My husband and I do not yet have any human children, so there is no concern about dog-child interactions, especially if your dog is not accustomed to having their ears tugged on or tail pulled. :) Please note: no more than 2 dogs will be boarded/sat simultaneously. More about me: When possible (when no clients are being boarded), I foster for two local organizations: Lab Rescue of LRCP and Fetch-a-Cure PenPals. My husband and I adopted our seven-year-old lab, Shaler, from Lab Rescue of LRCP, who developed mastocytoma a few months right after. Fetch-a-Cure paid for one of his chemotherapy treatments, and we are happy to report that he is now 6 years cancer-free! I facilitate a local Lyme disease support group and am on the Board of The National Capital Lyme Disease Association. If you- or anyone you know- has an acute or chronic tick-borne illness, please let them know that there is a resource here. Our organization's website is natcaplyme dot org (then click on "Chapters" to see all of our regional groups and my contact info), and our Facebook page is Richmond Lyme Alliance & Support. Please remember to check yourself and your pets thoroughly for ticks after spending time outdoors, and use a spray containing permethrin as the active ingredient on your clothing (no skin contact) when walking your pups. It is the only thing that kills ticks on contact (DEET does not). Spread the word, thanks!