Mark N.
Mark N.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Pet Vacation - Active, Fun, Loving
Pets deserve vacation too! So with your dog's stay, they get a big home, treats and bones, a fenced-in back yard, adventures to many parks to see squirrels, groundhogs and rabbits, and many new dog and human friends to bond with. This is luxury for your dog. Please note that I accept multiple dogs at a time and do have booking overlaps, so I don't accept dogs that aren't good with other dogs. I've loved dogs since I was a little boy and have raised many from puppyhood to seniors. I've doggy-sat dogs with special dietary needs, insecurity, and first time away and understand the importance of establishing a routine, even when they're away from home. I am often asked to work with reactive dogs and dogs that do not walk loose on leash, and I don't have an issue with these dogs. I'm an active outdoorsman who loves taking dogs outdoors and I have several trails nearby that I visit, including Hog's Back Park, Vincent Macey, and the Arboretum. I've completed the Karen Pryor clicker training course (Foundations) and although I don't offer training, I do work with dogs to maintain their current skills while you're away. I have split custody with my current dog, a 4 year-old Shepard mix. He is a ball of energy who loves to go running and play with other dogs. Depending on how the dogs get along, he may be staying with me during part of your pet's stay. I'm happy to provide at least two thirty minute walks a day and more if your dog needs it. I'm an avid runner and am happy to have dogs on the run with me if your dog is a runner. I'm happy to provide regular pictures, video, Facetime with your pet while you are away and keep you updated regularly on how they are doing. In cases of emergency, if you have a preferred vet, I will take your pet to a place they - and you - are comfortable with. I've owned three mixed breed dogs and two golden retrievers. They've all been trained to be fantastic dogs, each with their own quirks. I can work with dogs of all sizes.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
We feel incredibly fortunate to have had Mark care for Dexter while we were away. He kept us regularly updated throughout our trip and shared photos that gave us real peace of mind. It was clear that Dexter was happy, comfortable, and in excellent hands the entire time. Dexter can be a bit rambunctious, so we especially appreciate Mark’s patience and diligence in caring for our sweet—if sometimes silly—boy. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Mark to anyone looking for a dependable, thoughtful, and genuinely caring pet sitter. Natalie and Jim
Mark has been an incredibly host. He was very understanding and accommodating with my last minute request and the different instructions I shared with him especially regarding my older dog’s diet. I was a little nervous at first because this was Yuna’s longest boarding but Mark has been an excellent communicator throughout the stay sending regular updates and pictures. I could immediately see that Yuna felt comfortable very quickly and the rest of the stay went by swimmingly. I couldn’t have wished for a better experience and host, I wholeheartedly recommend Mark and will be requesting his services again!
Another great sit with Mark (and Rocket) this week! As usual, Dexter had a blast, was well exercised and is sleeping like a baby at home. Dex is already looking forward to his next visit :) Thanks Mark!
Mark took great care of our little guy! I really appreciated his clear communication in advance of and during our dogs stay. I was happy to receive updates and photos during the week - it was so reassuring to know they were having a good time. I would definitely recommend his care for active and friendly dogs. Thanks so much Mark!!
Mark did very good jobs for taking care of my dog. I highly recommend him, and will definitely send back my dog to him to take care of again.
Mark was amazing with our dog. He took him on great walks and adventures. He gave great, thorough updates and made us (in addition to the dog) feel very comfortable throughout the whole process. He even repaired our dog’s favourite toy- which was incredibly thoughtful and caring.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I'm an outdoor fitness instructor and writer with plenty of time to care for your pets and offer them the attention they need, whether puppies with a need for regular outside time, or seniors who want someone close by. I'm rarely away from home for more than three hours.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
I have a fenced back yard so your pet can spend time outside and I have dog bowls, beds, a crate, and toys, although I've found it's usually best if you bring items your dog is familiar with so it has a sense of home. For dogs that pull hard, I prefer using a gentle leader while they stay with me, rather than allowing them to pull too hard. It's better for me and for the dog. However I am also able to work with the tools that you prefer for your pet, whether that's a prong collar, corrective collar, anti-pull harness, etc.
Pets
A typical day
I'm a distance runner and skate skier and love taking dogs out with me on adventures if they are the right fit for that type of exercise. All dogs should get to explore and I'll happily take your dog to new places across the city according to their needs and habits.