Josephine D.
Highland, MD
Services
Josephine can care for
Availability
I take my dog for a walk after going pee in the morning and then if I’m home I spend as much of the day with her as possible. If I’m at school or somewhere that doesn’t allow dogs I make sure to give her something to chew on while I’m out and take her into the yard when I get back before cuddle time.
About Josephine D.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
This question largely depends on the pet and the environment… for instance, some of the shelter dogs would relax a considerable amount if I let them free roam with me while I did chores, whereas other dogs were too much of a flight risk or, were recovering from something and couldn’t free roam. In general I try to keep the stress level of whatever animal I’m working with as low as possible. If that means giving them their space and pretending they don’t exist, then that’s what I do if it means sitting on the floor and waiting an hour for them to curl up next to me so be it, if they need near constant petting and reassurance I am here. Speaking with people who interact with and know the animal the most is where I base most of how I interact with an animal beyond that I mostly read body language. Sometimes there are things I have to do, like give medication, that the animal does not appreciate but I try my best to make it as hassle free as possible, and apologize/make it up to them afterwards.
Information Josephine D. would like to know about your pet
If your pet has any medical problems like arthritis or they’re currently taking heartworm medication that’s pretty important for me to know so that I don’t worsen their symptoms. I’d also like to know any behavioral things you deem important. For instance if I walk in the door and they pee on the floor is that normal or is that something I should contact you about? Ideally if you are not there to meet me the first time I meet your pet i’d like to know some of their favorite things and any pet peeves they may have to help introductions go smoothly. Pun intended.
A typical day
In general, I would like to do at least one thing that your pet really enjoys every time I see them however, what that is deeply depends on what the pet is, and what their needs are. For instance, I’m not going to make a senior dachshund with arthritis go on the same hike that I would take a puppy German Shepherd husky mix. For the theoretical dachshund our day might look a lot more relaxed and cuddle heavy, whereas the shepski puppy might need me to go to a local park and let them walk me through every path imaginable. I know my dog really likes tug-of-war, but I’ve also worked with dogs that do not want you touching their toys at all ever. If the dachshund needed exercise, we’d probably go somewhere he could be in water (unless he disliked water) because the water will lessen his arthritis.
Location
Highland, MD
Pets
Josephine D. has Star Sitter status
The Star Sitter program highlights responsive sitters who deliver highly rated care and have a history of listing accurate availability and preferences, making it easier for pet parents to find the best care for their pets.
I work with troubled dogs
Pet care experience
I was born into a house of at least a dozen dogs and cats not to mention the farm animals. I have never lived without animals and since 2022 I volunteered then worked at CHN until its physical location closed due to financial problems. During my time at CHN I have worked with dogs of all kinds, all sizes and all temperaments. The best feeling for me has been earning the trust of dogs who were labeled dangerous, a bite risk, and or otherwise untouchable.
Reviews
Josephine is a great with my pup, she is reliable and a great communicator. Highly recommend!
Our pup loves going on walks with Josephine, she always comes back with a huge smile. We highly recommend her!
She’s a great pet sitter! Brando loves her.
Very loving to our pet and on time
About Josephine D.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
This question largely depends on the pet and the environment… for instance, some of the shelter dogs would relax a considerable amount if I let them free roam with me while I did chores, whereas other dogs were too much of a flight risk or, were recovering from something and couldn’t free roam. In general I try to keep the stress level of whatever animal I’m working with as low as possible. If that means giving them their space and pretending they don’t exist, then that’s what I do if it means sitting on the floor and waiting an hour for them to curl up next to me so be it, if they need near constant petting and reassurance I am here. Speaking with people who interact with and know the animal the most is where I base most of how I interact with an animal beyond that I mostly read body language. Sometimes there are things I have to do, like give medication, that the animal does not appreciate but I try my best to make it as hassle free as possible, and apologize/make it up to them afterwards.
Information Josephine D. would like to know about your pet
If your pet has any medical problems like arthritis or they’re currently taking heartworm medication that’s pretty important for me to know so that I don’t worsen their symptoms. I’d also like to know any behavioral things you deem important. For instance if I walk in the door and they pee on the floor is that normal or is that something I should contact you about? Ideally if you are not there to meet me the first time I meet your pet i’d like to know some of their favorite things and any pet peeves they may have to help introductions go smoothly. Pun intended.
A typical day
In general, I would like to do at least one thing that your pet really enjoys every time I see them however, what that is deeply depends on what the pet is, and what their needs are. For instance, I’m not going to make a senior dachshund with arthritis go on the same hike that I would take a puppy German Shepherd husky mix. For the theoretical dachshund our day might look a lot more relaxed and cuddle heavy, whereas the shepski puppy might need me to go to a local park and let them walk me through every path imaginable. I know my dog really likes tug-of-war, but I’ve also worked with dogs that do not want you touching their toys at all ever. If the dachshund needed exercise, we’d probably go somewhere he could be in water (unless he disliked water) because the water will lessen his arthritis.
Josephine D.
Highland, MD