Matt G.
Alexandria, VA
A Modern Day Dog Whisperer
Pet care experience
I've lived with and taken care of dogs all my life. My mother is a veterinarian so caring for animals is second nature. I know how to defuse tense interactions between dogs, as well as between dogs and cats, and prevent them all together. I understand that these are not just pets, they're family members and their safety and wellbeing is just as important as that of a child. I rarely meet dogs that I don't get along with. Cats, now they're a different story, but I'd wager that most can tolerate me. The secret is understanding that the relationship between us is one of collaboration and empathy, and recognizing that we have just as much to learn from them as they do from us.
Reviews
Matt was great while watching our 120 lb dog and kitties over the holidays! He was attentive to instructions during our meet-and-greet and asked questions to clarify he understood how to best take care of our pet family. He was communicative during his stay, letting us know when he arrived and sending plenty of pictures. He left our home in great shape and our pets feeling loved even while they were missing us while we were away. We wholeheartedly recommend Matt and hope to have him sit for us again!
Matt did a wonderful job with our 80lb pups over Thanksgiving break. He sent plenty of pictures of him actively playing with the dogs and really put us at ease so far away from the canine half of our family. The house was tidy and nothing was out of place when we came home. Would highly recommend him to anyone.
Being the son of a veterinarian, Matt grew up with a multitude of pets and learned the responsibility of pet care very early in life. He is a very compassionate, caring , responsible pet lover who would be a great choice to care for your dog and/or cat companions. He has taken care of our cats, dogs and horses for years, we never had a concern being gone with our beloved pets in Matt's care!
About Matt G.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I have a fenced in backyard, have experience with most common training devices (e.g., no pull harnesses, gentle leaders, e-collars, etc.) and have more than 30 years experience with multiple animals in the home.
Home
Information Matt G. would like to know about your pet
Any personality or behavioral tendencies would be nice to know. Also, it would be good to know any triggers (e.g., Loud noises, busy streets/sidewalks, anything that might make them act out). No preference for breeds!
A typical day
A typical day is more or less a typical human day. My dog is often the source of the most stimulation for any visiting pups and my wife and I typically are both available for multiple walks per day. If it’s a work day, sometimes we’ll skip walks, but our yard is a fine alternative.
Services
Matt can host
Matt can watch in your home
Availability
I’m very regimented and feed once in the am and once at night. 2-3 walks per day depending on the weather and let outside in the fenced in backyard as often as needed.
About Matt G.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I have a fenced in backyard, have experience with most common training devices (e.g., no pull harnesses, gentle leaders, e-collars, etc.) and have more than 30 years experience with multiple animals in the home.
Home
Information Matt G. would like to know about your pet
Any personality or behavioral tendencies would be nice to know. Also, it would be good to know any triggers (e.g., Loud noises, busy streets/sidewalks, anything that might make them act out). No preference for breeds!
A typical day
A typical day is more or less a typical human day. My dog is often the source of the most stimulation for any visiting pups and my wife and I typically are both available for multiple walks per day. If it’s a work day, sometimes we’ll skip walks, but our yard is a fine alternative.
Location
Alexandria, VA
Pets
Matt G.
Alexandria, VA