Kristen J.
North Ridge-Rosemont, Alexandria, VA
Services
Prices may vary based on your selections. A booking fee of 11% will apply.
Kristen can care for
Availability
What started as a full-time focus during the first six months of my retirement has now shifted slightly as I’ve embarked (couldn’t resist!) on a new role. I currently work from home on Mondays and Fridays, which makes those days ideal for dog walks and drop-in check-ins. I’m also available for selective weekends, depending on scheduling. As I transition from military life, staying active and prioritizing my health is important to me, and dog walks are one of my favorite ways to do that. I truly adore every dog I meet—especially the neighborhood pups I see on my daily walks—and I aim to stay as flexible and accommodating as possible within my schedule.
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About Kristen J.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I understand that every dog has different needs, and my personal living space may look different from what a larger dog is used to. Please don’t let the size of my fenced area deter you—your dog’s own environment and routine will always take priority. I treat each dog’s home as their safest place and strictly adhere to their established norms, boundaries, and care instructions. For transparency: I live in a small condo. My patio faces the street but is fully shielded by a large privacy hedge. Dogs are never left unattended when outside, and safety is always my top priority.
Information Kristen J. would like to know about your pet
To ensure a smooth and stress-free transition as your dog’s walker, I appreciate learning as much as possible about your pup in advance. Please let me know about any special feeding requirements, routines, or preferences. Sharing physical cues, signals, or behaviors your dog uses to communicate can really help me anticipate their needs, comfort levels, and dislikes. I’m attentive to body language and will always adjust my approach accordingly. Most importantly, I move at your dog’s pace. I never force dogs into situations or activities they’re uncomfortable with—trust, patience, and respect always come first.
A typical day
I look forward to giving dogs plenty of safe outdoor time, balanced with calm, enriching moments indoors. Walks and outside breaks are tailored to each pup’s needs, energy level, and routine—always prioritizing safety, awareness of surroundings, and your dog’s comfort. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity, so I also incorporate treat puzzles and enrichment activities to keep curious minds engaged. These are great for burning energy, building confidence, and giving dogs a satisfying “job” to do. In my care, dogs are never treated as background guests. It’s important to me that every pup feels included, secure, and loved, whether that means extra praise, quiet companionship, or playtime. Before I leave, I make sure your dog is settled, content, and truly satisfied—both mentally and physically. Providing stimulation, structure, and affection is simply standard for how I care for my own dogs, and I promise nothing less for yours.
Location
Alexandria, VA
Pets
Dogs deserve to live the best lives
Pet care experience
I’ve grown up with dogs my whole life, and caring for them has always been second nature to me. My biggest priority is making sure every dog feels safe, respected, and genuinely happy on their walks. I’m very aware of canine body language and behavior, and I never hesitate to advocate for a dog’s space around people or other dogs when needed. You may notice on my profile that I have two pups listed. In February 2025, I lost my beloved Cooper, and I just haven’t had the heart to remove him. He was my soul dog, and his presence shaped the way I care for and connect with animals. In September 2025, we welcomed Calvin into our lives. We truly believe a little piece of Cooper’s soul found its way back to us through him. Calvin is very much his own dog—spunky, curious, and a bit skeptical when meeting new people (the complete opposite of Cooper, who never met a stranger!). We love them both deeply and always talk about Cooper as Calvin’s big brother. Having cared for a senior dog taught me so much about patience, independence, changing needs, and the deep love dogs give us at every stage of life. I bring that same attentiveness to every dog I walk. For every walk, I come prepared with a treat pouch for redirection and positive reinforcement, a full water bottle, and a thoughtfully chosen route with shade and minimal traffic whenever possible. I take photos and videos along the way and talk to your dog like one of my own—with lots of praise, reassurance, and pets. Walks include close-leash time on sidewalks for safety and relaxed, loose-leash time in open areas when appropriate. I always check the weather, make sure pavement temperatures are safe for paws, and closely monitor your dog’s behavior—ending the walk early if needed. Walks are 30 minutes, and I spend an additional 5–10 minutes afterward making sure your pup is hydrated, alert, injury-free, and settled before I leave. Ice cube treats are always a favorite reward 🧊🐶 Your dog’s safety, comfort, and happiness are always my top priority—and they’ll be loved like family every step of the way.
Cat care experience
Kristen also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Reviews
Always great pictures and feedback!
Kristen is wonderful with my pups! They love when she takes care of them and I feel they are in great hands!
Kristen was great! My dogs loved her when they met her and she was wonderful with them. The visits were on time as requested and very thorough. Will definitely be requesting her for dog visits again!!
Kristen has been great with our GSD. She treats her so good every time and always makes sure she's hydrated. The pics are beautiful.
About Kristen J.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I understand that every dog has different needs, and my personal living space may look different from what a larger dog is used to. Please don’t let the size of my fenced area deter you—your dog’s own environment and routine will always take priority. I treat each dog’s home as their safest place and strictly adhere to their established norms, boundaries, and care instructions. For transparency: I live in a small condo. My patio faces the street but is fully shielded by a large privacy hedge. Dogs are never left unattended when outside, and safety is always my top priority.
Information Kristen J. would like to know about your pet
To ensure a smooth and stress-free transition as your dog’s walker, I appreciate learning as much as possible about your pup in advance. Please let me know about any special feeding requirements, routines, or preferences. Sharing physical cues, signals, or behaviors your dog uses to communicate can really help me anticipate their needs, comfort levels, and dislikes. I’m attentive to body language and will always adjust my approach accordingly. Most importantly, I move at your dog’s pace. I never force dogs into situations or activities they’re uncomfortable with—trust, patience, and respect always come first.
A typical day
I look forward to giving dogs plenty of safe outdoor time, balanced with calm, enriching moments indoors. Walks and outside breaks are tailored to each pup’s needs, energy level, and routine—always prioritizing safety, awareness of surroundings, and your dog’s comfort. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity, so I also incorporate treat puzzles and enrichment activities to keep curious minds engaged. These are great for burning energy, building confidence, and giving dogs a satisfying “job” to do. In my care, dogs are never treated as background guests. It’s important to me that every pup feels included, secure, and loved, whether that means extra praise, quiet companionship, or playtime. Before I leave, I make sure your dog is settled, content, and truly satisfied—both mentally and physically. Providing stimulation, structure, and affection is simply standard for how I care for my own dogs, and I promise nothing less for yours.
Kristen J.
North Ridge-Rosemont, Alexandria, VA