I have been house and pet sitting for 30 years. I began with watching neighbors' animals and homes when I was little - bringing in mail, cleaning the pool, making sure the homes were secure. Then I started dog and house sitting for a friend's aunt and word-of-mouth took it from there. I continued with in-home sitting for about 20 years and now do check-in’s. I have always been drawn to dogs. I grew up with a great, little mixed breed and Rottweilers and never thought I could love a little dog until they started making their way into my life - little by little! I currently care for small dogs only. The best feedback I've had from my clients over the years is that they feel totally able to enjoy themselves while they are away and can relax because of their trust in how well I care for their homes and pets. Also, that their homes look cleaner when I've left than when they were there! They really enjoy the photos and videos I send to them as well. I do prefer meeting owners and pets beforehand. I've found that it makes the experience better for everyone. We can all see if we're a match, and the animals are then familiar with me the next time I come into their home and know that I'm their friend. Meeting ahead of time puts everyone at ease. In the other parts of my life: I'm a pretty low-key person. I am an Acupuncturist. I enjoy creating abstract landscape paintings. I love books. And I love walks in nature.