5.0

Ever since I was a child, I have been mildly obsessed with animals (insert mental image of a little kid with horses all over her bright pink shirt and a stuffed Bernes Mountain dog glued to her side). At the time, my parents were strongly against having pets. I was deeply offended by this decision, and did not understand their hands were already full with five "animals:" my four siblings and me. Eight year old Kat knew she needed to get creative and outsource her time with animals. That's when I began working on a horse farm. I spent most days cleaning stalls, feeding horses and playing with the barn cats. This was my happy place, my home away from home. It was at this time I also began dog sitting for various families throughout our neighborhood. Although I think I was more of an annoyance to the first dog I looked after (sorry Ginger), I learned to be responsible and dependable. When I moved away to college, I looked for a new way to spend time with animals and began volunteering at a local shelter. Through the shelter, I began fostering cats and dogs, gained experience feeding newborn kittens, leash training large dogs and giving medications to senior pets. I loved learning each individual's personality and finding new ways to build playful and loving relationships based on trust. I later worked as a receptionist for a fear-free veterinary clinic and was exposed to pets of all dispositions and backgrounds. I am comfortable caring for pets with various illnesses, allergies, parasites and high anxiety. TLDR: I am a long time animal lover, with over 15 years of experience working/volunteering on farms and petsitting. I am confident around animals of any age, whether hoofed, clawed, scaled or winged! I am not easily grossed out by a snotty nose, or the occasional poopy bottom and will meet your pets energy wherever they need to be met. Whether you are looking for someone to walk your jumpy puppy or be a calm companion for your shy old cat, I am a great fit! PS: Now I know you are wondering, “ But Kat, did you ever get your own dogs?” and the answer is YES! I grew up with two Westie puppies and, several years later, welcomed Kody, our rescue german shepherd/husky mix to the family. (Pictures included)