5.0

Hi! I’m Jen — a lifelong animal lover with over 4 years of hands-on experience working at an animal shelter, plus many additional months caring for dogs and other animals on a small farm property. If there’s one thing I truly understand, it’s dogs. Especially the shy, anxious, and misunderstood ones. They hold a very special place in my heart! There is no greater feeling than earning the trust of a dog who needs a little extra patience and understanding. At the shelter I worked with every type of dog imaginable, from easygoing family pups to dogs with more complex needs due to past trauma. I was trusted to walk and handle even the more anxious or sensitive dogs, helping them build confidence and learn to trust new people. I’m very comfortable reading dog body language and adjusting my approach so each dog feels safe, respected, and understood. One of the dogs I worked closely with, Donald, needed a trusted handler present while new volunteers learned how to walk him safely, and I helped train others so he could get the exercise and enrichment he deserved. I also helped start enrichment initiatives at the shelter, including treat puzzles, mental stimulation games, and a “dog play buddy” program to give the dogs additional socialization and activity. One of my most special experiences there was helping care for a mama dog who gave birth to a litter of 10 (10!) puppies. I helped care for and socialize those puppies as they grew until they were ready for their forever homes. I also have experience caring for senior animals and understand that older pets often need a little extra patience, gentleness, and attention to their comfort and routine. Beyond dogs, I also have experience caring for cats and bunnies. Over the past few months I’ve helped care for my landlady’s 1yo kitty, and I’m very comfortable providing drop-in care and pet sitting for cats and small animals as well. I offer dog walking, drop-in visits, and pet sitting/boarding and I treat every animal like they’re my own. I pay close attention to each pet’s personality, comfort level, and body language so they feel safe and relaxed while their owner is away. I’m always happy to send updates and photos so you know your pet is happy and well cared for. My goal is simple: every animal I care for should feel safe, so very loved, and understood.