I don't just love dogs; I know how to take care of them responsibly. As much as working with animals is enjoyable and fun for me, I am aware of the responsibility and skill level required to maintain a safe and healthy environment for your dog (or cat). I also know how hard it can be to leave your furry family members behind with a new person, so I'd love to reassure you with daily texts and photos of how our visit is going. I can even do a Skype call or other form of video chat if need be. I'm currently studying to become a veterinarian and truly have an interest in the health and well being of your pet. I'm the type of person that double, triple, and sometimes quadruple-checks everything, and will pay attention to the small details in your pet's behavior and appearance. And of course, I absolutely love dogs. My favorite thing about them is their ability to break up the seriousness of a moment by being absolutely silly! Being a student also means that I will have more time to be at home with your pet. I have extensive experience as a dog walker and pet sitter, something I've been doing nearly full-time for the past 2 years. I've had the chance to meet dogs of all types and temperaments, and am comfortable walking energetic, leash aggressive, or nervous dogs. I understand how important exercise and quality time are in making your pup happy. I have prior experience as a vet assistant, where I learned how to safely restrain nervous dogs during their vaccinations, deliver subcutaneous injections, administer medication and feeding on a schedule for overnight patients, and clean up all variety of messes according to health standards. I also helped manage a very small pet shop where I helped wash and dry dogs at a grooming station and cared for small animals like rabbits, rats, and guinea pigs. My Skills: --Medical Background: Because I've worked in a vet clinic and with many senior or disabled dogs, I will keep a better eye on your pet and be wary if he/she is limping, having trouble breathing, or otherwise seems ill/under the weather. I also know to look for the warning signs of a dog that is scared, looking to bolt, might bite, or is fixating on another dog (leash aggression). --Exercise & Handling: I am in good shape and am comfortable walking your dog frequently, including 45-60 minute walks or jogs for more active breeds. I'm also able to restrain your dog if necessary. --Training: I'm not a qualified dog trainer, however, I can practice whatever methods you are currently using with your dog trainer to ensure that their routine stays consistent. I've helped puppies practice sit, stay, and heel as well as deterring jumping or practicing "off" for restricted areas. --Basic Dog Wash: I have been trained by a licensed groomer to wash and dry dogs safely (I have even washed and dried cats, rabbit, and guinea pigs). I'm also able to clip nails and give your furry friend a good brush-through to get rid of tangles and mats. --Health & Medication: I am experienced and comfortable administering pills, liquid medication, or subcutaneous injections to your pet at the required times. I have worked with many unwilling and difficult pets, and I know how to make the process quick and successful while causing minimal stress to your pet. --Walk Safety: I am an experienced runner as well as a previous dog walker, so I know how to be aware of my surroundings when going for a jog. I have experience with dogs who do not like other dogs, and have learned how to avoid them as well as safely handle any negative reactions (barking, lunging, snarling, pulling on the leash) so that things don't escalate. --Other Pet Experience: I am very comfortable handling cats and other small animals (rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, rats, mice), and can honestly say I'm just as much a cat person as I am a dog person. I understand the importance of a calm, quiet environment when it comes to smaller animals, and I'm familiar with how to handle them safely. My resume and references are always available upon request.