Growing up with large, energetic dogs, I've always loved animals. I was a volunteer dog walker at the local animal shelter during my college years, and I began pet sitting as a side job during grad school. I’ve been walking dogs and housesitting as my full-time job for five years now. I've cared for dogs, cats, horses, donkeys, chickens, peacocks, parakeets, rabbits, ferrets, hamsters and hedgehogs. I'm not a trainer, but I'm attentive and upbeat, so most animals respond to my positive reinforcement, and shy or nervous pets come around quickly when I'm with them. I love giving animals my full attention and seeing what happens when I do. It's so fun to get to know their unique personalities and learn what they like and how they communicate. I love to be active and play on their terms as much as possible.