Hey there! :-) I'm Grayson James. I have grown up around pets my entire life, and have been tasked with caring for them since a very early age. Currently I have two dogs- two Shih-Tzu/Yorkie mixes- and a cat. My best friend of 12 years recently passed- a Chocolate Lab named Duke. Duke had hip dysplasia, was prone to ear infections, and had respiratory and mobility issues as a result of aging. Taking care of him meant the world to me. He needed special attention and love, and so I have an unending patience for other dogs who need the same. Duke had been mistreated by sitters in the past due to his mobility issues and special needs, which pains me to my core. That being said, I do not get frustrated with dogs that are slower, elderly, or 'high maintenance;' I simply want to give them all the love and care that they require. That, also, being said, I am able to administer both oral and aural medication for dogs if needed. I am well-versed in the body language of dogs as well as their more outright behavior, and so I am able to get to know individual dogs very well. I am accepting and loving of all dogs of every breed, every size, and every disposition. Their behavior is incredibly important to me, and I will report if anything occurs that is worrisome or amiss. I am most experienced with dogs, but have lengthy experience with cats, as well. I currently have a Maine Coon/Russian Blue mix- Fifi- whom I love dearly. Before her, I have had many other cats, as well as taken care of neighbors' cats. Cats take a different touch than dogs do; they're loving, sweet creatures, and I know a lot of them need their space. I have experience with very introverted as well as extroverted cats, and I always take the time to learn each cat individually. I know when to give them attention and playtime, and when to give them their space. I have an incredible patience when it comes to cats, and my top priority is their comfort and safety. I have no qualms with cleaning litterboxes or cleaning up the occasional hairball or puke. Nor am I opposed to bathing your cat, if they're comfortable with water. I do not have experience administering medication to cats, but would do so to the best of my ability. I have additional experience with fish, rabbits, frogs, birds and rats. I currently have 2 rats of my own, and they are my two little darling girls! I also have 3 budgies and a ringneck dove; I know extensively how to care for these birds. I have experience administering oral medication to rats and birds, and have no qualms with cleaning cages. I have experience in sitting for other pets that are not my own, as well, and have additional references, if needed. I have cared for a dog with severe PTSD and trust issues, as well as dogs with separation anxiety. I have cared for dogs that required me to lie on the floor beside them while they eat. I have cared for dogs that required me to feed them from my hand every night. I have cared for my own dog- Duke- who once had such bad stomach issues that I had to sleep next to him so that he could wake me up every time he needed to be let outside. This is all to say that I care deeply about animals, I am truly passionate about their well-being, and strive to give them all the attention and care that they deserve. I am excited to get to know your furry family member, and give them a safe, fun, loving experience!