Jessica G.
Woodbridge, VA
Force-free, tailored care
Pet care experience
You and your pet are partners, pals, family. It is my job to foster that relationship by being a mentor, teacher, and guide. Force-free and positive is my philosophy. "Alpha" rolls and aversive punishment don't have any place in my toolbox (think about going into brain surgery with a jackhammer... you wouldn't do that would you?) Nuanced, measured communication and observation is key in building a healthy relationship with your pet. If you use those tools in training, I would love to talk to you and change your mind. We are all on a journey and have a lot to learn from each other and our dogs. Whether it is pulling, not coming when called, zooming off at distractions, inability to regulate activity and emotions, alarm barking, or most anything else, I would love to help! My rates are a little higher than most, but you don't just get a walk or a check in where I act as a tether at the other end of the leash or just top off water and switch some lights. Every walk is a 30 minute play and "work" session. Every activity is built to maximize your dog's intellectual and emotional experiences so that you come home to a balanced, happy pet. About me: I am a long time pet care professional. I have over 15 years of experience caring for pets from horses and livestock to hedgehogs and bearded dragons. I am currently studying for the bar exam and am looking to supplement my income with something I enjoy. US Army veteran. I was a weekend manager at a dog daycare facility in Portland, OR. While living in Portland, I also trained as an apprentice under positive dog training and behavior modification professional Denise Mullenix. Prior to that, I managed a 32 horse breeding facility, trained show Arabs, and was a personal trainer for a small, gentleman's farm. Whether it is senior pet care, farm care, daily walks, once-in-a-while pet sitting, or a run with your active pup, I would love to care for your pets.
Reviews
Jessica was fantastic! We booked her for the first time in June and she was great with our basset hounds. She turned the TV on for them so they’d have some noise, she played hide and seek games with them, and sent great pictures! We’re so glad to have found her!
Dependable, flexible, smart. Our Staffie loved her. Highly recommended.
Jessica...is the best. I have 2 special needs dogs. She takes her time with them and they really like her. When I have to go away, it's not stressful. I know they're in good hands. And she has a great personality and attitude.
Absolutely wonderful first experience with Rover and with Jessie! Communication and coordination was impeccable, and Scarlett clearly loved the opportunity to take a stroll through the neighborhood (as demonstrated by the photos along the way). This was a “test run” for me to try out the process, and I was thoroughly impressed with the entire experience.
About Jessica G.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
When out and about I take every precaution to make sure your pet is safe and comfortable. That includes buckling up if we are going for a day adventure or bath and gradually building up distractions in the environment if we are working on training. I will never put your pet in a position where they are being exposed to things that they are not ready for (confidence is key!!).
Information Jessica G. would like to know about your pet
Is your dog reactive to other dogs or animals? What is the usual routine? Does your dog pull? Are they sensitive about certain parts of their body? What is their history and how did you come to live with your pet? Is there any area where you are having trouble that you would like help with? I want to make every stay as seamless as possible so that your pets have consistency while you are away. It is stressful enough to miss their pet parents, why add to it?
A typical day
Hiking and dog park outings are a 60 minute walk rate. We can add time in 15 minute increments after one hour (from pickup time to drop off time). Dog runs are only scheduled for Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday mornings from 0600-0900 and are charged at a 60 minute walk rate for a 30 minute run. Baths are 30 minute walk rate plus $15. Multi-dog households and pack walks are done on a case-by-case basis. My dog or a resident dog will accompany on many walks and outings but only after your consent and a meet and greet.
Services
Jessica can watch in your home
Availability
Currently, I am only accepting drop ins and walks on a case-by-case basis. Please contact me if you feel like you and your pet would benefit from some basic obedience tuning up, some evaluation on miscommunications, or some help with a pet with special needs, please reach out. Occasionally, I will take house-sitting requests for people with dogs with severe separation anxiety or trauma. If I am unavailable or feel like another professional would be a better fit, I have several force-free/positive trainers in the area to recommend.
About Jessica G.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
When out and about I take every precaution to make sure your pet is safe and comfortable. That includes buckling up if we are going for a day adventure or bath and gradually building up distractions in the environment if we are working on training. I will never put your pet in a position where they are being exposed to things that they are not ready for (confidence is key!!).
Information Jessica G. would like to know about your pet
Is your dog reactive to other dogs or animals? What is the usual routine? Does your dog pull? Are they sensitive about certain parts of their body? What is their history and how did you come to live with your pet? Is there any area where you are having trouble that you would like help with? I want to make every stay as seamless as possible so that your pets have consistency while you are away. It is stressful enough to miss their pet parents, why add to it?
A typical day
Hiking and dog park outings are a 60 minute walk rate. We can add time in 15 minute increments after one hour (from pickup time to drop off time). Dog runs are only scheduled for Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday mornings from 0600-0900 and are charged at a 60 minute walk rate for a 30 minute run. Baths are 30 minute walk rate plus $15. Multi-dog households and pack walks are done on a case-by-case basis. My dog or a resident dog will accompany on many walks and outings but only after your consent and a meet and greet.
Location
Woodbridge, VA
Pets
Jessica G.
Woodbridge, VA