Kristin D.
Arivaca, AZ
The Farm Life
Pet care experience
When I retired from teaching a few years ago I decided I wanted to work with animals, so I got a job at Petco where I chased ferrets and cleaned tortoise tanks. I also fostered Shiba Inu rescue puppies at my house (so incredibly cute!!). Now that I've moved to the desert, I'm working with dogs again. I've bought a property out in Arivaca with 5 fenced-in acres. And let me tell you, there are awesome smells out here! Everything in the world has pooped on this property at one time or another. LOL I believe in positive reinforcement of desired behaviors and minimizing any negative talk to the dog. That way, the dog knows I mean business when I do reprimand them. I seldom have to reprimand our guests, though, since we spend a lot of time outside. During the late afternoon and evening we wind down and cuddle in front of the TV. Really, the dogs don't have much reason to be naughty. I always accompany pets when they go outside to pee at night -- there are coyotes out here and they jump the fence. Toffee is an old lady -- about 9 years old -- and has bad hips and Addison's disease. She can be really cranky. Typically she's very strict with the guest dog for the first day, letting them know exactly which spot is hers, which food, that she goes through the door first, etc. If your dog always wants to be alpha, then we may have issues. The dogs will be okay, but I really don't like all of the discord. Therefore, it's imperative we do a meet and great before the stay-over.
Reviews
Kristin was wonderful. She was very helpful to me and took great care of Winston.
We have used Kristin in the past and keep coming back. We like that our Bo feels comfortable with her and she creates a peaceful environment for him. Bo doesn't get along with everybody but he likes Kristin and that alone says alot. We really appreciate her taking great care of our doggie and will keep seeking out her care.
I don't hold Kristin responsible at all for my dog's difficult visit. Gracie is old and blind. I think, she was just intimidated and afraid to be there because of Kristin's much bigger dog. It was difficult to see what the difficulties would be in the meet and greet. As a result, Gracie had several accidents, which she is not having now. The lapses were an imposition for Kristin and I appreciate her graciousness in dealing with these additional problems. In retrospect, her treatment should have been to leave Gracie in a bathroom so she felt safe.
Kristin was wonderful. She was calm, loving and communicative. We received updates and pictures through out Max's stay. Max came home completely happy, calm, healthy and happy. We will certainly use her again if she is available. I will never go back to kennels.
About Kristin D.
Communication
Skills
Home
Information Kristin D. would like to know about your pet
I love working with the larger breeds. Lately Toffee has been cranky about the more active dogs. I think it's because she's losing use of her hips and rear legs. I may need to limit my sitting to only placid, older ? s.
A typical day
Some of our activities are walks, basking in the sun, chasing lizards, and naps! Dogs sleep more than humans they say - which gives me time to get things done around the house ?
Services
Kristin can host
About Kristin D.
Communication
Skills
Home
Information Kristin D. would like to know about your pet
I love working with the larger breeds. Lately Toffee has been cranky about the more active dogs. I think it's because she's losing use of her hips and rear legs. I may need to limit my sitting to only placid, older ? s.
A typical day
Some of our activities are walks, basking in the sun, chasing lizards, and naps! Dogs sleep more than humans they say - which gives me time to get things done around the house ?
Location
Arivaca, AZ
Pets
Kristin D.
Arivaca, AZ