First and foremost, I absolutely LOVE animals! I was raised to treat dogs and cats as members of the family, not possessions. As a disabled military veteran, my options in the traditional workforce are limited and interaction with animals is therapeutic. I’ve found that emotional support to be a rewarding two-way street! In 2016, Bagel, the pup I had adopted after a deployment in 2004, passed away. Ever since I’ve been drawn to dog-sitting/walking for family, friends and clients. I’m comfortable around all pets, even large dogs, and owners can find peace in knowing I’ll take care of them as if they were my own. My continuing goal is to find new ways to be involved with animals—to give back some of the love that I have felt so strongly over the years from them. I have dog-sat/house-sat for multiple friends, family members and clients. Most recent was for a friend who has two full-grown akitas (Nala & Osa). I took care of them for several weeks, walking, feeding, playing and spending time with them. Before that, I dogsat a 12-yr. old beagle (Buddy) for a few weeks for an acquaintance over the holidays. I have dog/cat-sat for family members in the past two decades and thoroughly enjoy it each chance that I get. In January of 2022 I adopted a new puppy best friend, a Bernese mountain dog and poodle mix. I have thoroughly enjoyed raising and training her, and the love given and received gets me through the days. I am calm and comfortable caring for and walking dogs. I remain in control and aware of the animal’s behavior, and I do my best to make it a fun, completely safe experience. Looking forward to having some new temporary "best friends"! I currently have a part-time work schedule as I am working to make dogsitting/boarding a full time endeavor. I am open to providing quality daytime or nighttime care. The service I provide is holistic. The care and attention I give your animal considers his or her wellness—from the physical to the mental. I am firm with house or outdoor rules that owners would like respected, and the love and safety an animal feels toward its sitter is the first and foremost important aspect of my job.