Ingrid C.
Portage, MI
Let’s have a ball!
Pet care experience
I have been a steadfast animal-lover since I was a little girl. We were never able to have cats or dogs when I was young, so I cared for hamsters, birds, fish, and even a baby opossum once! I volunteered time on a horse ranch, where I learned how to take care of horses and other farm animals. Once out of college, I adopted a cat, and a sweet golden retriever (rescued from the streets while I was living in Turkey) came along a few years later, followed by my pittie Skye after that. I had already begun my dog training journey with my golden, but once I got my pittie, Skye, I knew I needed to step up my game when it comes to understanding dog behavior and psychology. I use only force-free, fear-free training techniques and positive reinforcement with my own dogs as well as any dog I meet. This means that I don’t use any type of aversive tool, like prongs, e-collars, choke chains, slip leashes, etc on walks or in training. No judgment if you’re using one of these with your dog (i used to as well with my pittie). If these are the only types of tools you own, I will provide a harness for walks. I’ve gotten amazing results with my pittie who used to love to pull on the leash by switching to force-free techniques. To be clear, i don’t offer dog training through Rover, but just want you to have an understanding of my philosophy and how I interact with dogs, so you can make an informed decision about who to hire for dog care. I believe that all animals deserve to have fulfilling lives with species-appropriate activities. Pets are valued members of our families and it will be my privilege to care for yours while you’re away! I will give 100% to make sure your pet is happy and healthy - we will have a ball!
Reviews
Ingrid C. cancelled a booking within a day of the start date.
Ingrid (and Ryan) were both incredibly good with our dogs -our dogs appreciated the attention and snuggles and play. Ingrid was super communicative and sent photo updates, and was willing to be flexible with our schedule. We are super selective about who watches our fur babies and we give our stamp of super approval :)
Excellent. Understands dogs and is a true professional.
Wonderful experience. Really knows dogs and their needs. Amazing trainer!
About Ingrid C.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I don’t currently offer boarding in my own home since I am still working with my own rescue dog who has some reactivity and anxiety challenges. When I stay at your home, I provide plenty of play and enrichment for your doggos, based on your dog’s particular interests and energy level. I like using puzzle toys and snuffle mats to give dogs some mental stimulation. Outside we can play fetch, sniff out treats in the yard, and even try some agility for those super active dogs.
Information Ingrid C. would like to know about your pet
It’s very helpful to know if your dog is reactive to other dogs, people or other types of animals, or if they have any specific phobias. This will help me shape how i walk with them and what tools i have prepared to give them a positive, low-stress experience.
A typical day
On walks we’ll be sure to have lots of time for sniffies, as scent is a dog’s number 1 way of engaging and learning about the world around them. At home, we’ll play “find the treat”, use lick mats, puzzle toys and other games to help your dog get lots of enrichment.
Services
Ingrid can watch in your home
Availability
In addition to working with and training dogs (and humans), i work part-time as a freelance computer programming instructor, so it is easy for me to work in dog walks and drop-in visits. If i’m staying at your home for a sit, I’ll bring my laptop and will be able to teach my programming students without needing to leave your pooch alone for long periods of time.
About Ingrid C.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I don’t currently offer boarding in my own home since I am still working with my own rescue dog who has some reactivity and anxiety challenges. When I stay at your home, I provide plenty of play and enrichment for your doggos, based on your dog’s particular interests and energy level. I like using puzzle toys and snuffle mats to give dogs some mental stimulation. Outside we can play fetch, sniff out treats in the yard, and even try some agility for those super active dogs.
Information Ingrid C. would like to know about your pet
It’s very helpful to know if your dog is reactive to other dogs, people or other types of animals, or if they have any specific phobias. This will help me shape how i walk with them and what tools i have prepared to give them a positive, low-stress experience.
A typical day
On walks we’ll be sure to have lots of time for sniffies, as scent is a dog’s number 1 way of engaging and learning about the world around them. At home, we’ll play “find the treat”, use lick mats, puzzle toys and other games to help your dog get lots of enrichment.
Location
Portage, MI
Pets
Ingrid C.
Portage, MI