Hi, I'm Lindsay Before I describe my dog care offerings, an important note: if your dog is not well socialized / does not get along with other dogs, please do not send a stay request. If your dog is under 5 years old, I am not a match; I specialize in older dogs. Thanks Here are my basics: I have 13 years of experience. I offer very safe, affectionate, and attentive care. I host 3 dogs maximum. I'm home 7 days a week; watching dogs is currently my sole job. I conduct careful screening of all dogs. I'm organized + a great communicator. I have a large, amazing yard that your dog will love. >o>o>o I am not a match for high energy dogs.<o<o<o New customers: *Please review my profile before you request a stay to be sure I'm a good match. An easy shortcut is to click on my photos: there is a convenient chart which shows my parameters. Worth repeating, if your dog is under 5 years old or is unfriendly with humans or other dogs, I will need to turn you down. *Please allow a minimum of three days advance notice so that we have time to do a pet meet. My dog care philosophy focuses on building a strong, healthy bond between pets and people through positive reinforcement. I do not use fear or intimidation-based tactics. I believe that reward-based techniques are the best way to promote a trusting and respectful relationship between people and pets. Safe + Loved offers : a large, fully fenced backyard dog-friendly floors and cozy furniture daily walks (with your permission) a smoke-free environment air conditioning flexible drop-off and pick-up times Conveniently located: 4 miles from Portland International Airport I began caring for dogs as a way to learn about different breeds at a time when I was considering a second dog. Over time I realized that I got a lot out of dog caregiving, and didn't want to give up my revolving crew of dog buddies. I love dogs because they teach me to be in the moment. I am reminded to take joy in the simple things: eating, sleeping, and playing. Dogs are inspiring! Because dog sitting is my sole job, I can spend the day with your dog. I focus on giving affection, exercise, and positive reinforcement. I generally host a maximum of three dogs, or occasionally four, although this is rare- usually during the winter holidays. Please know that in addition to careful screening, I supervise dogs closely and have lots of experience in proactive strategizing as well as creative problem solving. I always ask folks to come by for a pet meet so that you have an opportunity to share what's important to you for your dog's stay. I try to provide consistency for your dog(s) by following your usual exercise and meal schedule. Knowing your commands and your dog's quirks are also important to me- I want your dog to feel like I speak your language and am aware of his/her needs. About this sitter: I grew up on a dairy farm. We always had a dog or two or three. Over the years there were Spaniels, Shepherds, Labs, and many, many mutts. I can't imagine a life without dogs. I have lived in Portland for over 15 years. During this time I have worked as a wildlife sanctuary intern, nanny, caregiver with folks with disabilities, preschool teacher, and horticulturalist. In my free time I like to explore the wonderful natural areas that surround Portland. I also enjoy gardening, long distance running, vegetarian cooking, and canoeing. About my yard: I have a wonderful backyard that I love to share with dog friends. It's really big and fully fenced. There are many trees and bushes to sniff and explore. Sunny spots, shady spots, and a kiddie pool for hot days. Please no dogs that regularly dig. **I do not leave dogs outside unsupervised** My experience administering medication: I have extensive experience caring for dogs with health issues, including injuries, illness, and aging-related complications. I am not able to get up in the night to give meds. I have experience: cleaning and rewrapping wound dressings giving pills, eye drops, ear meds, and topical treatments administering subcutaneous fluids / injections Occasionally pet parents are in a situation where they must be away from a dog that needs special care. I am confident supporting dogs with serious health conditions and am happy to send extra updates for your peace of mind, as well as be in close touch with your vet if needed. I am not able to lift dogs over 35 pounds regularly; this would apply to dogs with mobility issues. I have learned that dogs sometimes behave differently in a new place. For this reason I have taken a proactive approach to safety- In addition to having a securely fenced yard, I have installed locking gate latches as well as a dutch door so that I can accept packages without opening my front door. I am very mindful of what could go wrong and how I can best respond.