James Stuart H.
James Stuart H.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Your dog's new best friend in the Borders 🐾
Hi, I’m James—a recently retired IT professional with 30 years of experience, now embracing a slower, more soulful pace of life in beautiful Galashiels. At 59, I’ve swapped out the boardroom for bridle paths and couldn’t be happier spending my days outdoors with four-legged companions. Originally from Canada with Scottish roots (both my parents are from here), I’ve recently relocated from Surrey. Dogs have always been a huge part of my life—I've had over a dozen of my own over the years, including our recent beloved springer spaniel, Cilla, who lived a full and happy life despite having epilepsy from the age of one. I’ve long been the go-to dog sitter/walker for friends and family, especially when they’re off on holiday. Whether it’s energetic pups or older dogs needing a gentler pace, I’m experienced, patient, and genuinely love their company. I understand the trust it takes to leave your pet in someone else’s care, and I take that responsibility seriously. If your dog enjoys countryside walks, a calm and confident handler, and a bit of extra TLC, I’d love to meet them. Let’s make tails wag together!
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Heidi settled and was happy and well looked after.
James was quick to respond to all messages, and turned up on time. He came over for a meet and greet with the dogs prior to the first booked session. Very nice guy, local to me, kind with the dogs and clearly loves their company. They had a great time, the pictures he sent me speak for themselves. Thanks!
Caro spent 2 nights and 3 full days with James. She had the best time to the extent she looked far from impressed when I came to get her! She's a Romanian street rescue dog who we have no idea what she went through for the first 4 years of her life so she can be nervous. However, it was evident that she adored both James and his partner. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend James and would absolutely use him again!
My dog raced to meet James at drop off and seemed very happy when I picked him up. Need I say more!
James was great with my dog Morgan and I am confident he had a fun time with him. We looked forward to his updates during the day.
We don’t leave our dog with anyone. Finding James was a gem, he is an amazing boarder, Fergie was very settled and we could see how happy and contented she was to be with them even for her first visit. The attention and care given was home from home. Everything was perfect. I would highly recommend James for daycare or boarding what he says about looking after your pet is so true, both pet & owner has to be happy and we were more than happy. His true passion for dogs can be seen in how he interacts and cares for your pet. Thank you so much James.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I'm retired now so my schedule’s really flexible, so I can easily fit in walks, drop-ins, or longer stays without juggling other work commitments. I’ve always been the one friends and family turn to when they need someone to look after their pets, so it feels very natural to build that into my weekly routine.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
Whether I’m looking after a dog in my home or visiting them in theirs, their safety and comfort always come first. At my place in Galashiels, dogs have a calm, secure environment with plenty of space to relax—and of course, access to lovely countryside walks right on the doorstep. I keep things clean, quiet, and stress-free, and I’m always mindful of each dog’s routine, diet, and any special needs. Having cared for dogs with medical conditions (like our spaniel Cilla, who had epilepsy), I’m confident handling medications and keeping a close eye on their wellbeing. If I’m caring for a dog in their own home, I treat it with the same respect I’d expect from someone looking after mine. I stick closely to the dog’s usual routine to help them feel settled, and I always keep communication open with regular updates and photos so owners know their pet is happy and in good hands.
A typical day
I like to tailor activities to each pet’s personality and energy level. For dogs, that might mean fun walks, playing fetch, or exploring new smells on safe routes. For more playful pups, we might enjoy tug-of-war or games with their favourite toys. I always aim to keep pets happy, relaxed, and entertained while they’re in my care.
Prices include all fees.