Alright, buckle in, this is long... but I would want to know all of this before I trust my pets with anyone else, so here it goes! I got my first pet, a hedgehog named Neville, in 2017, and adopted my dog and cat the following year. My husband and I began fostering as well around 2019 and have since fostered 60+ dogs/cats as young as 4-6 weeks old up to some sweet senior guys and gals. I began volunteering at a local animal shelter years ago as well with the dogs, and went on to work there as an Animal Care Specialist, and then a Manager. With all this experience, I've gotten to learn a ton about animal care in general, as well as special medical and behavioral needs and really enjoy being able to help those animals. Safety and communication are my #1 priorities! I will send detailed updates with photos every single time so you are never wondering how the visit went. And safety is soooo important. I am always alert on walks, only having my phone out to snap a few photos for you and keep an eye on everything going on around us. I use fear-free, reward based training/handling techniques with all pups and kitties. I've taken classes on cat/dog body language, basic reward based training principles, and some common behavioral challenges, such as reactivity, pulling on leash, shy/nervous, etc. I am always "checking in" with your pet to make sure they feel comfortable and will go at whatever pace they need! I also know that an enriched pet is a happy pet! I focus on 3 forms of enrichment - mental (think puzzle toys, kongs, or fun training!), physical (walks, fetch, tug-o-war!), and social (interacting with humans, other dogs when appropriate, etc.). Let me know what your pet would enjoy! I've also cared for many animals with medical needs, including skin/eye/respiratory infections, diabetes/insulin injections, oral medications, dogs undergoing heartworm treatment, cats with litter box issues, etc. I'm very happy to learn whatever care you pet needs! (Additionally, I have some experience with exotic pets, including hedgehogs, rats, bunnies, and fish. I'd love to learn more about your exotic pet!)