Other than running occasional errands or having a meal out, I will stay with your pets all day and all night. In 2010 I became the first dog trainer for the Unleashed by Petco brand in the DC area. I quickly became a Dog Training Mentor and the Lead Trainer for the company in the DC region. I trained 16 new dog trainers, and I trained dogs as well as dog trainers at 5 other Unleashed by Petco locations and 2 Petco stores, where I worked with dogs of all breeds, ages, sizes, and personalities. I am committed to Positive Reinforcement training, and I use redirection rather than corrections. My primary philosophy around dog training and dog behavior, is that calm is the key to everything. If a dog is calm they will be able to follow my commands, but when they’re over-excited they often can’t follow instructions, even if they want to. I have wonderful, effective techniques for helping dogs feel calmer. I have invented training methods that rely primarily on sound, such as the sound of a clicker or a metronome. For the cost of a housesitting stay, I don’t claim that I will train your dog, but I do have the skill and knowledge to be able to reinforce good behaviors and redirect them away from less desirable behaviors. My track record of success with pets is based on my relationships with them. I work hard to earn their trust, and to help them feel safe and happy while their family is away. I talk to my dog clients a lot. tell them that they’re good dogs and I thank and reward them for good behavior. Beyond the doggies, I also have extensive experience caring for cats and also birds. I have also worked as an innkeeper at a large Bed & Breakfast, so I’m knowledgeable about house issues and how to care for a home.