Moving to New York City from California has been quite an adjustment for me. I love the energy and excitement of the big city, and transplanting here for graduate school then a job has definitely taught me so much about myself and humanity at large. But more often than not, I find myself homesick, and the main reason is because I miss my sweet Golden Retriever on the other side of the coast. I raised him since he was 8 weeks old, but had to leave him behind with my family. He is my best friend and I miss him every single day. I realize how much I took for granted––all the joy and affection I received from my beloved pup––from tackling me every time I came back home or snuggling up next to me if I was sick or a little down in the dumps. I don’t have professional credentials in dog care, but I have many years of experience as a fur parent as well as dog sitting for friends and family. I think you gain so much from raising your own dog––and my love for dogs is universal. Every time I see a dog on the streets of Manhattan, my heart soars then sinks––I think of my fur baby and I realize how lonely I feel. Although I work a full-time job from 10 to 5pm, my office is only a 15-minute walk from where I live in Kips Bay, so I’m able to check on pets during my lunch hour. Plus my job is pretty flexible, so I can request to work from home so I can adjust my hours to meet your scheduling needs. I’d love the chance to help people who need to find a reliable and compassionate dog sitter while I get my puppy fix. I’m capable of boarding, house sitting, and walking dogs if you are unable to do so. It is usually very therapeutic for me to be around dogs as well as cats, turtles, rabbits, guinea pigs––you name it, I grew up with all of them! I’ve taken dog training courses when my guy was a puppy, so I know how to engage with dogs. I love all types, breeds, ages, and temperaments––and have a natural ease around our furry friends. Each dog is unique and I relish getting to know each and every one’s adorable personalities, even the slightly surly ones. Trust me, letting me watch your pup is helping me just as much as I’m helping you. I’m so grateful I can vicariously have a dog by my side, even if it’s a stroll around the city! One of my favorite things to do was cook for my dog, usually some rice, carrots, and minced meat––so if you think your pup would enjoy some healthy, homecooking, I’m your gal! When I’m not at my day job, you can usually find me at the gym. Working out relieves stress and I love to get my heart pumping. If I have a dog staying with me, I’d love to go for a long walk or a jog along the river since I much prefer fresh air. There are so many worlds in NYC, I only feel like I’ve seen just the tip of the iceberg. If your pup is game, I’d also love to do a bit of urban exploring. I really can’t think of a better way to spend the day!