Denise M.
Beaverdam, VA
Denise M. has Star Sitter status
The Star Sitter program highlights responsive sitters who deliver highly rated care and have a history of listing accurate availability and preferences, making it easier for pet parents to find the best care for their pets.
Home away from Home
Pet care experience
I have taken care of dogs from a very young age and I have more than 30 years experience. I am also a GSD breeder and I actively import dogs from Germany, Serbia, and Ukraine. My dogs and I train and compete in events such as K-9 nose tracking (scentwork), agility/rally, obedience and conformation. My passion is helping all dogs whether it be a rescue from a horrible event or taking in a dog for a long-term stay due to prevailing work schedules and/or the owner's inability to care for their dog for a period of time. My work schedule is extremely flexible which allows me to accommodate just about any schedule. I have been working remote since the pandemic and my passion is to help others with their pet care needs and I am finally able to do so. We recently purchased new fencing, 6 foot high to be exact. I had some jumpers that could easily escape a 4 foot fence so my husband and I decided to safe-proof (aka jump proof) our back yard. The dogs have a 7000 square foot area to romp and play, outside there are (6) 2 gallon water buckets which are cleaned and refilled as necessary. On the outskirts of the fence we have chickens and goats. Inside my home, I no longer utilize the traditional crate but have decided to use 4x4 kennel boxes and each dog has their own space. I do allow the dogs to "choose" their space rather than placing them next to another that may not appreciate the company. Each dog has access to his/her food and water within their space as well as any toys, beds, blankets that belong to them. It is essentially their hotel room while they are here. Problem behavior dogs....I've cared for a few. It is not my favorite but it can be done and I am extremely cautious. I do not want to be bitten nor do I want to have to break up a dog fight. So, problem behavior dogs are outside alone and are escorted by leash to and from the door. All dogs are treated equal here. When I give treats, they all get treats. It is very loud here especially when we get a new visitor but once all of the newness wears off that is when I begin to introduce. Introductions are done on a case by case basis. Not all dogs will get introduced, not all dogs are interested in having friends. With that being said, I gauge your dog's behavior and I know my dogs behavior and I know who will be best be matched for outside playtime. So, please do not take offense if your dog isn't allowed to play with others while here - this has only happened one time - but I must mention it.
Reviews
Denise M. cancelled a booking 2 days before it was scheduled to begin.
Great care and update!! Thanks so much.
We've booked Denise three times in the past, even before we adopted the Great Dane. She's amazing and patient with our furry babies. Her knowledge and ability to cater to their needs are impressive. When my babies come home very stinky, it's a clear sign that they had a blast during their stay. I'd choose her as our pet sitter again in a heartbeat!
So patient with my sensitive pup and she fit us in last minute with no hassle at all! Great find!
About Denise M.
Communication
Skills
Home
Information Denise M. would like to know about your pet
It is very important that I know of any problem behaviors such as dog aggression and/or food aggression. Has your dog ever received professional training? Does your dog enjoy being outdoors more than indoors? Is your dog crate trained and/or have special needs such as a daily medication schedule?
A typical day
Our typical day begins around 5:30am. That's when I am alerted that someone needs to go outside. Breakfast is served by 6:15am and then we rest until 7:00a and then we go out for another potty break. 7:30a - 10a, I am doing barn chores and dogs are inside resting. At approximately 10:15a, all dogs go outside to play/potty. Not all dogs want to stay outside for long so those that wish to come back in do so and hang out with me in my office while I'm 'working' my day job. Potty breaks are on an as-needed basis. Simply, my day to day routine is letting them out, bringing them in, letting them out and bringing them in. Dinner is usually served at 4:30p.
Services
Denise can host
Denise can watch in your home
About Denise M.
Communication
Skills
Home
Information Denise M. would like to know about your pet
It is very important that I know of any problem behaviors such as dog aggression and/or food aggression. Has your dog ever received professional training? Does your dog enjoy being outdoors more than indoors? Is your dog crate trained and/or have special needs such as a daily medication schedule?
A typical day
Our typical day begins around 5:30am. That's when I am alerted that someone needs to go outside. Breakfast is served by 6:15am and then we rest until 7:00a and then we go out for another potty break. 7:30a - 10a, I am doing barn chores and dogs are inside resting. At approximately 10:15a, all dogs go outside to play/potty. Not all dogs want to stay outside for long so those that wish to come back in do so and hang out with me in my office while I'm 'working' my day job. Potty breaks are on an as-needed basis. Simply, my day to day routine is letting them out, bringing them in, letting them out and bringing them in. Dinner is usually served at 4:30p.
Location
Beaverdam, VA
Pets
Denise M.
Beaverdam, VA