Kristin V.
Woodbridge, VA
¾ acre fenced yard, full-time care!
Pet care experience
ABOUT ME I am a full-time dog mom to two medium-sized rescues, Caruso (11) and Dug (7). Our 3,000 sq ft home is tucked away on a cul-de-sac with a large, fenced back yard that includes both lawn area and woods for sniffing, running, and playing. My background as a zoo educator means I am experienced reading behaviors and working with a variety of animal personalities. I worked with a large variety of species including penguins, porcupines, parrots, owls and hawks, a kinkajou, and even an alligator. Although I do not accept alligators for boarding, I am well versed in providing excellent care to animals of all ages and personalities. My time at the zoo taught me the importance of enrichment for animals of all kinds. Enrichment is an activity or object that provides mental and/or physical stimulation. I provide a different enrichment activity each day, such as bubbles, ball launchers, playing in the sprinkler, puzzle feeders, etc. WHY CHOOSE ME - We have lots of space for running around, both inside and outside - I only book one family at a time (up to 2 dogs from the same family) - Pets are allowed on furniture - Crates are not required, but we have two on hand if needed or you can bring your own - We have lots of toys to choose from - I provide at least one special enrichment item or activity per day above and beyond the regular toys and play time provided (ex: frozen treats, puzzle feeders, sprinklers, bubbles) - No children - Daily pictures of your pup enjoying their own vacation - Several nearby vets, just in case Additionally, your pup will get to play with our rescues. Caruso (11, 50 lbs) is a loud and playful basset hound mix. His younger brother, Dug (7, 40 lbs) is a sweet and quiet unknown mix. Their favorite activities include chasing squeaky balls and yelling at the mailman.
Reviews
Amazing again - Kristin is super friendly and took excellent care of my nervous dog, Harper. I appreciated the updates and photos throughout the stay. Highly recommend!
Kristin was absolutely wonderful as a sitter! My dog is anxious and nervous around strangers and new situations, so finding someone to watch her is always nerve wracking. Kristin was great about handling introductions, paying attention to how Harper (and her own dogs) were responding, and making sure everyone was comfortable. She sent updates and photos throughout, which was great, and it was clear Harper was settled in and happy! Will definitely book with Kristin again
Kristin did a great job taking care of our high maintenance and fearful pup. She sent lots of photos and kept in communication when my pup was having some issues and got stung by a bee. Highly recommend her for a sitter!
Kristin made my dogs feel safe and loved and she made us feel secure! Not to mention, she knows how to calm our pups, establish boundaries with them, and her dogs are the sweetest! I can’t recommend enough.
About Kristin V.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
ENVIRONMENT We chose our home with our dogs in mind. Our 3,000 sq ft home includes lots of space for running, including a dog play room. Our large (¾ acre) yard is fenced and includes both lawn area, woods, gardens, and a patio to explore and run around. I encourage active time through regular toys, free outside time for exploring, and unique daily enrichment activities such as frozen treats (if permitted by owner), bubbles, sprinkler, baby pool, etc. Since being in a new place with new people can be a lot to handle, I also understand the importance of relaxing time between play sessions. Your pup is welcome to sunbathe in the grass or on an outdoor dog bed, lounge in one of the large dog beds around the house, or snuggle up with us on the couch. HEALTH & SAFETY Health and safety is my first priority. My dogs, Caruso and Dug, are both fully vaccinated. In order to reduce the risk of illness, I require the following vaccinations: - Rabies - DHPP, also known as Distemper/Parvo (within 3 years) - Bordetella (within 1 year) Although I maintain the fence and gates within my home to prevent escapes, I use Tile Trackers as an added precaution. I attach the Tile to your dog's collar when dropped off and remove it when you pick them up to ensure I can find your dog at all times during their stay. I also add a light to their collar at night so I can monitor them in our large yard in the dark.
Home
Information Kristin V. would like to know about your pet
Before booking an overnight, I want to make sure everyone is on the same page and comfortable. In addition to your veterinarian's vaccination records, I also require a meet & greet prior to your pup's first stay with us.
A typical day
MY ROUTINE Any time the weather is nice, we are outside enjoying the privacy of our large, fenced back yard. On rainy days and in the evenings, we play in our dog play room, relax on the sofa, and bark at the mail man (or at least the dogs do). When we can't stay outside to play, potty breaks are at least every 2 hours. I will discuss with you in advance what your preferences are for sleeping arrangements. Options include sleeping in our bedroom in a large dog bed with me and my dogs, having free range of the house to choose their own place to sleep away from me and my dogs, or they can be crated at night.
Services
Kristin can host
Availability
MY SCHEDULE I only schedule one family (up to two dogs) at a time so you know your dog is receiving focused care. I work from home most days and my husband is home for the rest of the time. We will treat your dog like part of our family and will include them in anything we do, including enjoying the backyard, playtime, and snuggling on the sofa in the evenings.
About Kristin V.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
ENVIRONMENT We chose our home with our dogs in mind. Our 3,000 sq ft home includes lots of space for running, including a dog play room. Our large (¾ acre) yard is fenced and includes both lawn area, woods, gardens, and a patio to explore and run around. I encourage active time through regular toys, free outside time for exploring, and unique daily enrichment activities such as frozen treats (if permitted by owner), bubbles, sprinkler, baby pool, etc. Since being in a new place with new people can be a lot to handle, I also understand the importance of relaxing time between play sessions. Your pup is welcome to sunbathe in the grass or on an outdoor dog bed, lounge in one of the large dog beds around the house, or snuggle up with us on the couch. HEALTH & SAFETY Health and safety is my first priority. My dogs, Caruso and Dug, are both fully vaccinated. In order to reduce the risk of illness, I require the following vaccinations: - Rabies - DHPP, also known as Distemper/Parvo (within 3 years) - Bordetella (within 1 year) Although I maintain the fence and gates within my home to prevent escapes, I use Tile Trackers as an added precaution. I attach the Tile to your dog's collar when dropped off and remove it when you pick them up to ensure I can find your dog at all times during their stay. I also add a light to their collar at night so I can monitor them in our large yard in the dark.
Home
Information Kristin V. would like to know about your pet
Before booking an overnight, I want to make sure everyone is on the same page and comfortable. In addition to your veterinarian's vaccination records, I also require a meet & greet prior to your pup's first stay with us.
A typical day
MY ROUTINE Any time the weather is nice, we are outside enjoying the privacy of our large, fenced back yard. On rainy days and in the evenings, we play in our dog play room, relax on the sofa, and bark at the mail man (or at least the dogs do). When we can't stay outside to play, potty breaks are at least every 2 hours. I will discuss with you in advance what your preferences are for sleeping arrangements. Options include sleeping in our bedroom in a large dog bed with me and my dogs, having free range of the house to choose their own place to sleep away from me and my dogs, or they can be crated at night.
Location
Woodbridge, VA
Pets
Kristin V.
Woodbridge, VA