Katie F.
Katie F.
Highlights
Pet care experience
From muddy paws to wet Bop noses!
I have a wide range of experience caring for pets, from puppies to senior dogs and even those needing palliative care. I’m also a proud “foster fail” twice over! I truly believe animals are members of the family, and every little heartbeat under my roof is treated with respect, patience, and love. After all, it’s their first time living too. Over the years I’ve cared for dogs with behavioural challenges, anxiety, high energy, very little common sense, and of course the wonderfully lazy furry types too! My partner Claudio; and I are both comfortable administering medication and making sure specific dietary requirements are followed carefully. Also, continence problems are not an issue. We have two children, aged 5 and 7, who have grown up surrounded by animals and understand how to behave respectfully and gently around them. Our family currently includes myself, Claudio, my 2 sons, my two rescue “foster fails”, both street dogs from Romania—Rodney and Biddie. One arrived with a broken leg and a very broken soul, but with time, patience, and love he has grown into a happy, trusting member of the family… currently asleep on my armchair! We also share our home with a tortoise, Tortalina, and a lizard, Speedy. We live on a quiet, secluded street with a garden that backs onto woodland. Directly across the road there’s a fully enclosed park, which is perfect for safe exercise and peace of mind. At home we have a garden, a large summer house, and even a room dedicated for dogs who might need some quiet time or their own space, as well as a loft room for time outs. Dogs are welcome to sleep in their crate or bed, and if they’re used to a little extra comfort, they’re very welcome at the end of the bed too… although snoring may not be permitted! I truly love animals—I’m the kind of person who will move a snail out of the path so it doesn’t get stepped on. I’m also currently starting a dog grooming course, which is something I hope to offer as an additional service in the future. For longer walks we often visit Sloughbottom Park. We have a safe vehicle where dogs travel securely with seat belts—and occasionally join in with a howl to our excellent taste in music! My main goal is to make sure your furry friend never feels abandoned while you’re away. I want them to feel safe, loved, and part of the family, so their 'hoomans' can relax and enjoy their time away without guilt or worry. I’m also very happy to spend extra time with anxious dogs who may need a few meet-and-greets to build trust. I once had a puggle who needed this, so I completely understand—and I never charge for those extra introduction visits. I’m also open to caring for larger dogs, provided we have a successful introduction and they are safe around children.
Cat care experience
Katie also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Stella has an absolutely wonderful time at Katie’s!
Katie’s family are so loving and caring, Stella’s very relaxed with them :)
We agreed a meet up before the "sit" so our young dog could have a run around in the park prior to the day. Katie and I were able to discuss all the habits, needs and regular schedule our dog kept to. The drop off and pick ups were set around my plans and became very flexible. Kaite actually dropped all the paraphernalia and the dog back home. Lots of coms on the sit itself of photos of the dogs playing together and updates kept us updated throughout the stay. Our towels and things were all cleaned and I could tell that the rapport of Katie with dogs is excellent. We would certainly recommend and use Katie again.
We were very worried about leaving our Bella (Bassett) for the first time with someone who was not family. We met with Katie and her family before we went away and immediately felt that Katie was the perfect person to leave Bella with. During our holiday Katie sent plenty of fabulous pictures and updates. Bella had the best time whilst we were away and has made many new friends. We could not wished for a better experience and would like to thank Katie and her family once again. Would highly recommend and we will definitely continue to use Katie's services moving forward.
At the risk of sounding like Kathy Bates in Misery, I'm Katie's number one fan! It is great being able to go out knowing my little Scruff is in such good hands and having a great time with lots of cuddles and long walk. To top it all off Katie sends better photos that I manage to take :)
Katie and her family looked after Stella for the day and made her feel really at home. Thanks so much! Sally and Danny
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I work part time from home so spend the majority of my day here, bar a few shopping trips and school runs, which aren't often for long periods of time. This often includes weekends also, having 2 dogs myself means we are very conscious of long they may be left on their own.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
I have a fenced back garden that backs on to woodland, we live in a cul de sac so is quiet and secluded. For dogs who wish to have their own space, we have both a large summer house and specified bedroom for them to rest in. Alongside this, directly across the road we have a fully closed in park, so no flight risks when walking.
Pets
A typical day
On a typical day we awake around 7am where the dogs venture out to do their business. Usually followed by a treat. After the school run its off to the park for a walk! We then use various methods to keep the dogs settled, from lock mats, stimulating treat puzzles and general interaction. Cuddles and snooze time is dog determined! For high energy dogs, we head back to the park for an afternoon walk, and/or play a game within the garden. When the sun is out so is the paddling pool and sprinklers for those water babies..