Elizabeth J.
Elizabeth J.
Contact Elizabeth J.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Responsible and genuine pet care
I've raised 6 dogs, 3 cats, and a flock of chickens over the last 15 years, and have also pet sat for friends and family extensively. My husband and I currently have 3 dogs and 2 cats in our family, and two of the pups are certified therapy dogs whom we take to a memory care facility to visit the residents every other week. Before starting therapy dog work, I volunteered at the local animal shelter as a dog walker for 12 years, giving me a wide breath of experience with different dog breeds and personalities. I have a soft spot in my heart for pitties because they're such cuddle bugs, but have grown to love all types of dogs, from crazy energetic border collies to lazy couch potatoes to little grumpy old men. My husband and I adopted a 14 year old pup from the shelter to give him a retirement home, so I also have experience with the extra care that our senior citizens need. Besides the typical cats and dogs, I'd be happy to take care of any other critters you have, from little rodentia like hamsters and guinea pigs to outdoor livestock like chickens and goats. For me - as for you - pets are truly family members, and I look forward to meeting your family and taking the best care of them while you're off on your adventures.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Elizabeth was amazing. I felt so good leaving Emma in her care. She went over and beyond what was expected.
Reliable. Caring. Knowledgeable. The three best words to describe Elizabeth and her attitude towards animals, especially dogs. She watched my 65 lbs, Husky/Blue Heeler mix, Flint, for over a week, while I was out of the country. Flint hadn't been left for that period of time before, and is a shy/timid rescue dog. I figured that with the spacious acreage Elizabeth has at her home, he could always hide somewhere and at least be fed and checked on. It was a welcome and joyful surprise to find Flint happily playing with her dogs when we returned. She has three dogs, who were well trained (I found out two are volunteer therapy dogs), and many dog beds inside and out to make all comfortable. She was very communicative, sending photos and updates every day. For exercise, she walked Flint and one of her dogs around different trails that are adjacent to her neighborhood. Flint's a senior dog, and she was very systematic in making sure she had his supplements, food, medicines, etc. I will 100% be trusting Elizabeth with Flint in the future.
Elizabeth took such excellent care of our cats! She sent us pictures and gave our cats lots of pets and extra attention. Churro is always happy to see her and even our grumpy old man cat let her pet him. Would call her anytime to check in on our cats and our home!
Elizabeth has been my neighbor for over 6 years, she has dogs, cats and chickens. They are all happy and healthy and I would know as I have pet sitted her cats and chickens! She always takes her dogs with her on her camping trips. She is very responsible and knows not to bring her dogs when she feeds my horses. Elizabeth has taken care of my 2 horses (ages 12 and 31) when I have been traveling. I love her attentiveness to my instructions on when and how much to feed. What is really nice is she texted me a photo after she fed them in evening. Elizabeth has always told me that if I can't make it back home on day I planned she will be happy to feed horses. I either call or text her when I get home or if I need her to fed an extra day.
Calendar and availability
Schedule
I am currently transitioning from a two-decade-long career in engineering science research to pursuing a dream to start a farmstead. As I get my farm off the ground, I have ample time to share my love of animals with your family. My schedule is completely flexible, so I am able to adapt to what you need and what works best for your critters - whether it is dropping in once or twice a day to feed, love, and play with everyone, taking the pups on a mid-day walk, or staying overnight if they need extra care. If you require a specialized arrangement, let me know, and I can make it happen!
Where your pet will stay
Safety, trust & environment
In my personal experience, many dogs and most cats are more comfortable in their own environment, so I would prefer to come to you and take care of everyone in your home; however, if you'd prefer to board your pups with me, let's talk about options. When I come to you for a drop-in visit, I will spend a minimum of 30-60 minutes feeding everyone, playing in your house or fenced in yard, and giving lots of love. For dog-walk visits, we'll go for a 30-60 minute walk around the neighborhood; if you have more than two dogs, we'll go in rounds of 1-2 dogs per walk. If you'll be gone for an extended trip and/or your animals need some extra attention, I can stay at your house overnight. In addition to the primary responsibility of caring for the animals, I am also willing to do any other little chores you need taken care of, such as watering plants and feeding the fish. I'm very flexible and will work with you to ensure everyone gets the care they need. No matter which approach we take, I'll send you regular text updates and plenty of pictures, and will always be available by phone if something comes up.
Pets
A typical day
When I take care of your dogs, I adapt to what they like best. I love to play fetch or tug-of-war with their favorite toy. When we go on walks, I let them set the tempo, because some dogs really like to sniff and some like to go-go-go. If they're in a calmer mood, we'll hang out on the couch and read a book while snuggling. My philosophy is similar for cats - I'll play if they're energetic and/or cuddle if that's their preference. Some cats prefer to be left alone, and that's ok, too; I can top off food, refresh water, clean litter boxes, and otherwise let them do their own thing. For dogs and cats both, I'd love to give them a treat, too, if that's ok with you. For chickens, I'll top off food, refresh water, gather eggs, give them scratch, and take a moment to ensure everyone is clucking and dust bathing as normal. I'm less experienced with other livestock but am very willing to learn what your needs are, so please let me know!