Fiona M.
Fiona M.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Experienced dog carer & enjoy having hound guests.
Growing up I’ve had the joy of sharing my home with a variety of breeds, from the protective and loyal German Shepherds to the spirited and energetic Jack Russell. Each dog has brought its own personality and quirks, teaching me valuable lessons about companionship, trust, and responsibility. Currently, I live with our beloved 7-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback, a breed known for its strength, intelligence, and loyalty. Until recently, we had two Ridgebacks, but we had to say a heartbreaking goodbye to Ruby, our adored 11-year-old. For several years, I took a more structured approach to dog care by engaging in formal training at a local dog training school which is conveniently located near our home. This experience deepened my understanding of canine behaviour and allowed me to bond with my dogs in new and exciting ways. We focused on whistle recall, an essential skill that I find incredibly useful for keeping control and ensuring my dogs’ safety, especially in more open or distracting environments. Prey dummies were also a big part of our training, allowing the dogs to tap into their natural instincts in a controlled, stimulating way. Whether it was teaching them to walk to heel, guiding them through agility courses, or engaging in scent work and searches, these activities weren’t just about discipline—they were about making sure my dogs were mentally stimulated, giving them the chance to use their brains as much as their bodies. The joy I saw in my dogs when they were engaged in these tasks was priceless. It wasn't just about physical exercise, but mental stimulation One of the things I’ve learned over the years is the importance of being a responsible dog owner, especially when out in public spaces. I respect the unspoken code of dog walking—being mindful of other dogs, particularly those who might be anxious or overly excitable. It's essential to create a comfortable distance between dogs, allowing them their space without causing unnecessary stress or confrontation. When I'm out walking with my dog, I’m fully engaged. For me, it's not just about letting them run off energy; it's an opportunity to work them, keeping their minds active as well as their bodies. Whether we’re practicing commands, reinforcing training, or just interacting through games, I make sure that our walks are a time for both physical and mental enrichment.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Where do I start, Ruby is a 14 month old bull terrier so not the easiest of breeds but Fiona worked wonders with her. Not having looked after one before she took time to research and learn about the breed and on meeting her watched how she interacted with other dogs. Ruby is an excitable dog with no interest in treats and desperate to be friends with everyone, dogs and humans! I received daily updates, photos and videos which we were thrilled with as it was the first time away from Ruby. And her progress reports made us proud parents. She learnt so much from Fiona and being with the other dogs. I think Fiona and her son enjoyed her as much as she did staying with them. Thank you so much for looking after Ruby and we will certainly be returning for more!! Truly amazing ♥️ 🐾
Thank you Fiona,I always feel at ease when she is with you.
As always otis and lola love going on their holidays with Fiona and have the best time living with their family for a week. I get regular walk and cuddle updates and they really are so happy and very settled when they stay. As my doggies are my babies i couldnt recommend Fiona enough!!
Fiona looked after our cockapoo, Poppy, for the first time whilst we were recently away for 11 days. I can reiterate what others have said with regard to the fantastic care and affection that was provided by Fiona and her lovely family. Fiona's communication is brilliant and through the messages, photos and videos that were sent, it was very clear that poppy was having a great time and being extremely well cared for. We also ran out of food at the end of Poppy's stay, and were delayed on our return flight to England. Fiona made sure extra food was provided to Poppy and helped to drop her off with our emergency contact, as Fiona and her family were going on holiday. We highly recommend Fiona and I'm sure Poppy would love to have another stay with Fiona and her family some other time soon!
My dog was cared for and adored. I almost suspect she didn't want to leave. I got such frequent updates I knew every day how happy she was and how well she was looked after in the heat. Every photo showed how my dog was made to feel at home and Fiona handled her little ways with trying to get to food so well. Fiona knows how to adapt and manage any sort of dog. Will definitely use again.
Thank you so much to Fiona and Family for taking such amazing care of King! He had a wonderful holiday and was perfectly cared for. Lots of video and photo updates and excellent communication. Home away from home for our boy. Thank you!
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I work part time from home where I live with my husband and two teenaged children who are often found cuddling up in the dog beds. I walk my dog each day and mix the walks up so rarely are they on the same walk 2 days running. I have a big car boot (not precious about the car) and your dog will be welcome to join me on the school runs. My office is in our very large kitchen and backs onto our garden. Dogs are welcome in all rooms of the house and can often be found curled up in front of our inglenook wood burner. During warmer days we open the bifold doors onto the garden brining the outside in or is it the inside out!?
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
We have a good size garden that is securely fenced. Several lovely dog walking fields around and walks where it's quite and I can see way ahead for other dogs should you hound be nervous of others. Kitchen is large and has plenty of space should you wish to crate your dog and several dog beds scattered around the house and rugs for them to lie and find a cosy spot to chill. I have a large crate available for use that can be covered and made into their own den/safe place, Kongs both big and small to keep our dogs entertained. Hose right outside the back door (warm buckets of water supplied for the more precious ones like my own!), happily groom and brush their teeth.
Pets
A typical day
Long morning walks with a pocket full of titbits your fur baby will work and be rewarded for. Rarely will I walk the same walk two consecutive days running, love to mix up my weekly walks. Prey dummies, fetching treats in hiding places - ball throwing if the owner feels it's appropriate and not too damaging on their joints. Lots of cuddles, praise and double bubble love from x 2 teenage children and husband.
- 0 to 7 kg7 to 18 kg18 to 45 kgover 45 kgDogs over 1 year oldUnspayed females accepted, neutered males onlyNo females in heatFiona can host up to 4 pets per night
- Always helpful to know about your fur babies likes and dislikes and concerns you might have for your dogs well being. I can also make myself available to meet you and your dog for a walk before you make a booking to reassure you that your beloved pet is in good hands.