Di L.
Cleveland Heights, CA
Fear Free Veterinary Assistant
Pet care experience
I currently work full-time as a Veterinary Assistant in the East Bay. I have been pet sitting and dog walking for the past 19 years: during school, in breaks, and on the side since graduating. I worked for animal advocacy nonprofits for six years, campaigning on behalf of wildlife, farmed animals, and companion animals. I have worked as a full-time caregiver at a farm animal sanctuary, an inner-city shelter in Chicago, and a "cage-free" cat and rabbit shelter in the suburbs. My entire education was based on caring for and studying animals. I graduated from Bristol University in 2012 with a Bachelor's degree in Animal Behavior and Welfare, with Honors. I spent a year learning about clinical animal behavior - mainly behavioral issues in cats and dogs, meaning I have a good understanding of both canine and feline body language. This enables me to quickly assess and anticipate situations and best ensure your animal is kept safe. I am also Fear Free Certified, and will never push your pets into a situation they are uncomfortable in. Lastly, I have a leash-reactive dog myself and am very competent in the hyper-vigilance and careful management that goes with walking these guys.
Reviews
Di was great with our kitties and went above and beyond in making sure they (& our house) we’re cared for while we were gone. She is very responsive, friendly, communicative and easy to work with. Highly recommend her!!
Di is simply wonderful! She is so attentive to my dog's needs, adjusting activities during her visits to best fit Koa's interests, activity level, and whatever random things happen to be going on in my neighborhood that day. Koa is relaxed and at ease when I return home after Di has been to visit, and she gives the best visit summaries! As someone who has to continue work outside of the house during the pandemic, I am incredibly appreciative of Di's willingness to implement a plan to safely visit Koa on the days I needed help, sanitizing all mutual items, door knobs, etc. at each visit. It has been a tremendous relief, and I appreciate her concern for my dog, my home, and public health.
Di is the best! She was great with our older dog, who was having health issues and needed special care. Our dog took to Di right away, and her clear communication, empathy, and reliability really impressed us from the first meeting to the visits she made with our girl. Highly recommended!
Di took great care of our pup and home over a week. She kept in great communication as well. Will definitely rebook - hopefully before you!
About Di L.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I am hyper conscious of opening doors when coming/going from your home and ensuring no one is ready to dart. I'll make sure I get eyes on every animal, even if they are too shy to come hang out. Working in a vet hospital, I'm also savvy to common ailments, hazards, and so on. If anything looks off, I'm on it.
Information Di L. would like to know about your pet
Ahead of time I'd like to know of any major past or present medical issues, typical behavior/personality traits, and anything the owner would like for me to look out for. I like to have solid context about what is "normal", since that is different for everyone. For example, some dogs are grazers, some dogs are scarfers. It's important for me to know these things so I can pinpoint any changes that may be worrysome.
A typical day
I am well-versed in enrichment and for my drop-in clients I often prepare stuffed kongs, snuffle mats, lickimats, and soon. For walks I usually explore your neighborhood, and check in about any walks you like or areas to avoid (guard dogs, etc).
Services
Di can watch in your home
Availability
I work 4 x 10hr shifts per week at a veterinary clinic in Berkeley. On my 3 days off, I hang out with my dog and take care of your pets!
About Di L.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I am hyper conscious of opening doors when coming/going from your home and ensuring no one is ready to dart. I'll make sure I get eyes on every animal, even if they are too shy to come hang out. Working in a vet hospital, I'm also savvy to common ailments, hazards, and so on. If anything looks off, I'm on it.
Information Di L. would like to know about your pet
Ahead of time I'd like to know of any major past or present medical issues, typical behavior/personality traits, and anything the owner would like for me to look out for. I like to have solid context about what is "normal", since that is different for everyone. For example, some dogs are grazers, some dogs are scarfers. It's important for me to know these things so I can pinpoint any changes that may be worrysome.
A typical day
I am well-versed in enrichment and for my drop-in clients I often prepare stuffed kongs, snuffle mats, lickimats, and soon. For walks I usually explore your neighborhood, and check in about any walks you like or areas to avoid (guard dogs, etc).
Location
OAKLAND, CA
Pets
Di L.
Cleveland Heights, CA