Francis F.
Francis F.
Contact for Drop-In Visits
from $18 per visit
Highlights
Pet care experience
A Lifetime of Pet Care Experience
I’ve been caring for pets continuously since I was 8 years old — that’s over 50 years of hands-on experience. Growing up on a farm gave me a deep and lasting connection with animals from an early age. I learned responsibility, patience, and the importance of providing a safe, loving environment for every creature in my care. Over the years, I’ve also taken in many strays, giving them food, shelter, and the attention they desperately needed until they found their forever homes. This lifelong bond with animals has given me tremendous empathy for family pets and the people who love them. I understand how much your pet means to you and how important it is for them to feel secure, comfortable, and genuinely cared for when you’re away. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or another beloved companion, I treat every pet with the same kindness and respect I would want for my own. Today, my own dog serves as my daily assistant and constant companion. He keeps me active, grounded, and reminds me every day of the special relationship we share with our animals. This close, everyday connection helps me bring real understanding and patience to the pets I care for. I’ve cared for animals with many different personalities — from easygoing to more independent or strong-willed — and I always adapt my approach to meet their individual needs. Feeding, daily care, playtime, and health monitoring have all been part of my routine for decades. I’ve learned how to create consistent schedules, provide mental and physical enrichment, and make sure every pet feels like part of the family. My goal is always the same: to give your pet the same level of love, attention, and security they receive at home.
Cat care experience
Francis also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Pets
Safety, trust & environment
Safety and trust are the foundation of the care I provide. Whether I’m doing an overnight pet sitting stay, taking a dog for a walk, or doing a quick drop-in visit, I treat every pet with the same care and attention I give my own dog and two cats. My goal is always for your pet to feel secure, comfortable, and genuinely cared for. Building Trust from the First Meeting I believe trust starts with a calm, respectful introduction. I take time to meet your pet on their terms — letting them approach me first, using a gentle voice, and allowing them to get comfortable at their own pace. I pay close attention to their body language and personality so I can adjust my approach to what makes them feel safe. Pet Sitting (Overnight or Extended Care) When staying in your home, I maintain your pet’s normal routine as closely as possible. This includes consistent feeding times, regular potty breaks, and familiar play or rest periods. I keep doors, gates, and windows secure at all times and never leave your pet unsupervised in unfamiliar situations. I also provide daily updates with photos and notes so you can see your pet is happy and safe while you’re away. Pet Activity & Walks Safety is my top priority during walks and outdoor activities. I always use a secure leash and harness (or the equipment you prefer) and remain attentive to the environment — watching for other dogs, traffic, wildlife, or anything that could startle your pet. I adjust the pace and length of the walk to your pet’s energy level and fitness. For dogs who need extra structure, I use positive reinforcement to encourage calm, polite behavior on the leash. Drop-In Visits During drop-in visits, I focus on providing everything your pet needs in the time I’m there — fresh food and water, clean litter boxes, medication if required, and some quality interaction or playtime. I always double-check that your pet is secure before I leave (doors locked, pets in safe areas) and send you a visit report with photos so you know exactly how your pet is doing. General Safety Practices I Follow I carefully follow all of your instructions regarding food, medication, routines, and any special needs. I keep emergency vet information and your contact details easily accessible at all times. I monitor your pet closely for any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy and will contact you immediately if anything seems off. I use positive reinforcement and patience to help even shy, anxious, or strong-willed pets feel relaxed and secure in my care. Because I live with pets every day, I understand how important these small details are. My experience has taught me that when pets feel safe and trusted, they’re happier — and their owners can relax knowing their beloved companions are in good hands.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
Caring for pets is a natural and consistent part of my daily routine. I currently share my home with a dog and two cats, so I understand the importance of structure, attention, and love in keeping animals happy and healthy. I maintain a consistent feeding schedule for all my pets. Meals are served at the same times each day, which helps them feel secure and supports good digestion. I’m especially attentive to individual dietary needs — for example, my dog is currently on a carefully managed elimination diet, so I prepare and portion his meals with extra care while still keeping the cats on their own appropriate feeding routine. I also make sure my pets get plenty of activity and engagement throughout the day. My dog gets regular walks that give him both physical exercise and mental stimulation. With my two cats, I incorporate interactive play sessions using wand toys, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders to keep them active and mentally sharp. These daily activities help prevent boredom and strengthen the bond I share with each of them. Above all, I show kindness through positive reinforcement. I use praise, gentle encouragement, and rewards to build trust and confidence. Whether it’s rewarding my dog for calm behavior on walks or praising one of my cats for using their scratching post instead of the furniture, I focus on reinforcing good behavior in a loving, patient way. This approach helps pets feel safe and happy, and it’s the same method I use when caring for other people’s pets. Because I live this routine every day with my own dog and cats, I bring real, practical experience to every pet I care for on Rover.