Kelley H.
Berryville, VA
Lover of all animals, big and small
Pet care experience
I owned a dog since she was a puppy in 2004 until she passed away in 2015. Since then I have owned cats, fostered many dogs, which led to me foster failing and keeping Kuvira! I more recently adopted my puppy Misa and rescued my other dog Sterling. My current cats are all rescues, some of them were even born in my backyard. I have raised most of them from kittens so I’m used to spending a lot of time with cats, scooping litter, cleaning up hairballs, and taking time to earn cats trust! I've stayed overnight with a pet while the owner is away short or long term, I've done drop-ins for feeding/letting dogs out to use the restroom, and longer walks. I have dealt with dogs of all ages from young puppies to elder animals. I'm willing to work with special needs or disabled dogs as well, and it's my goal to bond with the dogs I care for so they are comfortable and happy. I want both the pet and owners to trust me to do the best I can. I have experience giving medication (oral and injections), I have previously worked as a manager for a dog daycare and was employed at an animal shelter. I am confident in my ability to handle animals with care and read their body language when interacting. Pet safety and happiness are my priorities. My current group is a handful and one of my dogs in particular struggles with anxiety and reactivity, so if your dog has similar behavioral issues don't worry! I am used to reactivity and am willing to learn all about your dog and how to handle certain behaviors.
Reviews
Kelley was great with our cat visits, as always. Highly recommend Kelley.
Kelley H. cancelled a booking 1 day before it was scheduled to begin.
Kelley was a fantastic sitter, as always. We appreciate her timely and thorough visits, care for our cat, and good communication with us while we were traveling. Highly recommended.
Very grateful for Kelley’s responsive service and care of our kitties!
About Kelley H.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
My home is a little chaotic with 3 dogs and 6 cats. I don't currently offer boarding or daycare from my home but I hope to in the future! My house is divided up using gates to keep dogs in areas I can supervise them. The cat litter boxes are in a room the dogs cannot get to and the cats have plenty of vertical places to climb away from the dogs. I make sure to show each animal individualized attention throughout the day, and I would do the same with a client's pet!
Information Kelley H. would like to know about your pet
I'd like to know if a dog has a disability or behavioral issue and how I could assist them better. I have a dog that struggles with anxiety and fear aggression so I am no stranger to intimidating or complicated dogs. I take a positive reinforcement approach to interactions and watch the dog for cues of discomfort or anxiety so I do not stress your pet out.
A typical day
I enjoy taking dogs on walks as well as playing games of fetch and tug of war. I also enjoy training dogs, or playing mentally stimulating treat games with them. Trips to the park or a hiking trail on nice days are also good options for walks. Whatever activity the dog favors, I will engage them in it.
Services
Kelley can watch in your home
Availability
I am an apprentice at a tattoo shop right now, so I’m mostly available in the mornings, evenings and nights. I am more than happy to figure out how to meet your pets needs.
About Kelley H.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
My home is a little chaotic with 3 dogs and 6 cats. I don't currently offer boarding or daycare from my home but I hope to in the future! My house is divided up using gates to keep dogs in areas I can supervise them. The cat litter boxes are in a room the dogs cannot get to and the cats have plenty of vertical places to climb away from the dogs. I make sure to show each animal individualized attention throughout the day, and I would do the same with a client's pet!
Information Kelley H. would like to know about your pet
I'd like to know if a dog has a disability or behavioral issue and how I could assist them better. I have a dog that struggles with anxiety and fear aggression so I am no stranger to intimidating or complicated dogs. I take a positive reinforcement approach to interactions and watch the dog for cues of discomfort or anxiety so I do not stress your pet out.
A typical day
I enjoy taking dogs on walks as well as playing games of fetch and tug of war. I also enjoy training dogs, or playing mentally stimulating treat games with them. Trips to the park or a hiking trail on nice days are also good options for walks. Whatever activity the dog favors, I will engage them in it.
Location
Berryville, VA
Pets
Kelley H.
Berryville, VA