Ishmael W.
Ishmael W.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Dog Sitting Cat Dad
Growing up in a large family full of dogs, I learned to care for every size, age, and temperament. One of my first jobs was pet sitting for my aunt while she was out of town. She didn't need to pay me because I would have gladly watched her rottweiler puppy for free, but I found it incredibly rewarding to potty train and teach him tricks over the weekend. I couldn't believe I got paid to pay with a puppy! From then on, I took every opportunity as a kid and teenager to watch my friends' and family's pets. Only having a young pitbull at home, being able to take care of elderly or little dogs was a great learning experience. This gave me the skill set to train puppies, provide senior care such as mobility and bathroom assistance, and care for sick pets or pets with chronic health conditions. This experience has made me a well-rounded animal caretaker and cat dad.
Cat care experience
Ishmael also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
My dogs seemed to have had a great time with Ishmael, he was responsive and timely in all communication.
Ishmael did an amazing job taking care of our pit-heeler mix, Loba, while we were away. Loba is naturally very nervous around strangers and can be quite vocal, barking and acting tough when meeting someone new. Instead of rushing the process, Ishmael was incredibly calm, patient, and understanding. He took the time to earn her trust at her own pace, and it made all the difference. Before long, Loba felt completely comfortable with him, which gave us so much peace of mind while we were away. We couldn't have asked for a better sitter and would absolutely trust Ishmael with Loba again. Highly recommend him, especially to anyone looking for someone that is good with anxious dogs!
Ishmael has always been an animal person and dedicated cat dad throughout all the years I’ve known him. He consistently puts forth the extra effort and treated his friend’s dogs as his own fur babies when pet sitting for them. This makes me confident that he’d make a good pet sitter on Rover. With friends’ animals and with his own, I have witnessed him diligently administer medications on time, monitor pets with special needs (i.e. surgery recovery, checking on the pet throughout the night), give regular baths and grooming, and provide plenty of attention and exercise. Not only is he a devoted cat dad, he’s just one of those people who can instantly put animals at ease and build rapport quickly.
Ishmael has been a pet lover every since I met him. He took care of mine dogs and they just love him. He is caring and loving with them. When my dogs see him they get so excited. He is an excellent setter.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
With my remote job, I am home full time and have the time and yard space to provide pet care services and boarding. My schedule is very flexible and I am available everyday.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
I have a fenced patio and two dog-friendly cats who stick to themselves and have their own space on the cat shelves. As long as your dog is cat friendly, I think they would get along great with a new canine friend in the house. Your fur baby's safety is of utmost importance, so I will follow any rules or preferences for your pet, such as leashing them outside, crating them, or even letting them cuddle on the couch! In your home, I will do the same and follow your house and pet parenting rules :)
Pets
A typical day
For high energy dogs, I can take them outside for potty or exercise breaks as much as needed because I work from home. I live in a semi-rural area with a very large outdoor area that has lots of new smells and sights to explore in the surrounding trees. I am also near a more traditional suburban area with sidewalks if your fur baby is more of the indoor type. Bring any of your dog's favorite toys and I would be happy to play with them as much as needed. Lazy dogs are welcome to rot all day on my couch or in my lap and play inside.
- Cats0 to 15 lbs16 to 40 lbs41 to 100 lbsIshmael can host up to 2 pets per night
- Please let me know if your dog is larger or high energy/loud so I know what to expect beforehand. My apartment is more secluded so it's okay if they're a little more rowdy.