Maria O.
Maria O.
Contact for Boarding
from $60 per night
Highlights
Pet care experience
Your pet’s best friend! ^•^
With 5 years of dedicated experience in pet care, I provide a comprehensive and compassionate service tailored to the unique needs of each animal. My expertise extends beyond basic care to include specialized skills such as positive reinforcement-based puppy training, helping to establish good habits from an early age. I also have a deep understanding of senior dog care, including administering medication, providing gentle exercise, and creating a comfortable, low-stress environment. I have experience managing a variety of medical conditions, ensuring your furry family member is safe and well-cared for at all times. My goal is to be a trusted partner in your pet's health and happiness, providing peace of mind while you're away.
Cat care experience
Maria also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Maria did an amazing job taking care of our pups! We loved the pictures and updates—she kept us feeling connected the whole time.
I highly recommend Maria to all pet owners. She is an excellent person who loves pets. She has an amazing place outdoors where they can enjoy. Her place is cozy and I'm sure each dog or cat will love to stay with her. She will keep you updated with tons of photos and videos.
Choosing Maria means choosing peace of mind. Whether I'm away for a few hours or several days, I know my beloved pet is in capable, caring hands. She treats each animal as if it were her own, providing not just basic care but genuine companionship and love. Her attention to detail extends to everything from ensuring fresh water is always available to noticing subtle changes in behavior that might indicate health concerns. I highly recommend using her services if you want to ensure your pet is in loving hands.
If you're looking for a pet caregiver who combines professional excellence with heartfelt dedication, Maria is your answer. She has earned my complete trust and has made what used to be a stressful experience – leaving my pet with someone else; into something I can do with complete confidence. Any pet would be fortunate to receive her care, and any pet owner would be wise to secure her services.
Maria was a lifesaver when I had to go out of town unexpectedly. She not only walked and fed my dogs, but also gave my dog some toys before we left! My dogs seemed to really bond with her. I appreciated the daily photos and updates. She was very professional and I felt completely at ease knowing they were in her care. Highly recommend Maria as a pet sitter!
Maria is an incredible pet caregiver who truly goes above and beyond. We've entrusted her with our dog, and we couldn't be happier with her service. What sets Maria apart is her amazing combination of being fun, responsible, and understanding. She's an absolute joy for our dog. Maria always brings a sense of fun and playfulness to their time together, whether it's an energetic walk, a game of fetch, or just some quality cuddle time. Our dog's excitement whenever he sees her is a testament to the special bond they've formed. Beyond the fun, Maria is exceptionally responsible. She's meticulous about following our instructions, from feeding schedules to medication requirements. We never have to worry when our dog is in her care because we know he's in safe hands. She's also proactive, giving us updates and even sending us pictures of our dog having a great time. This gives us peace of mind, allowing us to relax and enjoy our time away. Most importantly, Maria is incredibly understanding. She took the time to get to know our dog's unique personality and quirks. When he was feeling a little anxious during a thunderstorm, she knew exactly how to comfort him. This level of empathy and personalized care is rare and so valuable. Maria isn't just a pet sitter; she's a compassionate friend who treats our dog like her own. We highly recommend her to anyone looking for a top-tier pet caregiver.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
Each morning starts with feeding, watering, and a potty break for the pets in my care. This is followed by a morning walk or playtime to get their energy out and start the day on a positive note. Throughout the day, I follow individual schedules, which might include specific feeding times for puppies or senior dogs, medication administration, or scheduled walks and potty breaks. The afternoon often includes another round of playtime or enrichment activities, such as puzzle feeders or training sessions, to keep their minds engaged. Evenings are typically quieter, with a final feeding and potty break before a relaxing wind-down. My weekly routine involves a bit more planning. I coordinate with pet owners to schedule walks, check-ins, or overnight stays. I also use this time to restock on supplies and keep detailed records of each pet's behavior, eating habits, and health. If a pet is in my care for an extended period, I might schedule a grooming appointment to ensure they're in top shape. My schedule is built around the needs of the pet, ensuring they receive consistent, loving care and that their owners have peace of mind.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
Caring for pets, whether on my own or a client's, requires a responsible and attentive approach to ensure their well-being. A fundamental aspect is providing a consistent routine, including scheduled feeding times with high-quality, species-appropriate food and fresh water that is always accessible. Regular exercise is crucial for both physical and mental health; this can range from daily walks for dogs to interactive playtime. Environmental enrichment, such as toys, scratching posts, and comfortable bedding, helps prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. It's also vital to maintain a clean and safe living space by regularly cleaning food and water bowls, litter boxes, and bedding. Beyond daily care, a thorough pet care plan includes regular grooming, such as brushing and nail trims, and staying up-to-date on veterinary care, including vaccinations and preventative treatments for fleas, ticks, and worms. For client homes, clear communication is paramount. It is important for me to obtain detailed instructions regarding the pet's specific needs, routines, medications, and any behavioral quirks, as well as emergency contact information. This holistic approach, combining routine care with attention to individual needs and a focus on safety and hygiene, ensures a happy and healthy life for any pet under my care.
Pets
A typical day
A typical day as a pet caregiver, filled with fun activities, looks something like this: Morning: A Walk to Wake Up and Sniff The day begins with an energetic greeting from your furry client. After a quick potty break, it's time for a "sniffari" walk. This isn't just about walking; it's about letting the dog lead the way, stopping frequently to investigate interesting smells. This mentally stimulating activity is a fantastic way to start their day. We might discover a new squirrel-watching spot or a particularly fascinating fire hydrant. Mid-Day: Puzzle Time and Brain Games After the walk, it's time for some mental exercise. Instead of a traditional food bowl, you'll use a puzzle feeder or a snuffle mat to serve their lunch or a few treats. Watching them figure out how to get to the food is engaging and a great way to tap into their natural problem-solving instincts. Following their meal, it's a good time for a training session. Even just 10-15 minutes of practicing basic commands like "sit" or "stay" with high-value treats keeps their mind sharp. If the pet is a cat, I will use this time to hide treats around the house for them to hunt, a rewarding activity that mimics their natural hunting behaviors. Afternoon: Outdoor Adventures or Indoor Forts The afternoon is all about burning off some energy. For a dog, this could mean a trip to a local park (if they're social) or a game of fetch in a fenced yard. You could even set up a mini agility course using household items like pillows to jump over and blankets to tunnel through. If I’m watching a cat, this is the perfect time for a high-energy play session with a feather wand or laser pointer. A little bit of intense play followed by a chance to "catch" the toy will leave them feeling satisfied and ready for a nap. If the weather isn't cooperating, you could build a fun fort out of cardboard boxes and blankets for them to explore. Evening: Wind Down and Cuddle Time As the day winds down, it's time for some quiet bonding. This is when I can give a gentle brushing session, which many pets love. For dogs, a quiet session of tug-of-war with their favorite toy can be a great way to release any last bits of energy before bed. For cats, this is the ideal time for some cuddles and purrs on the couch. The day ends with a final potty break for dogs and a check-in with all the pets to make sure they're comfortable and ready for a good night's sleep.