Matthew S.
Rice Lake, WI
Services
Matthew can care for
Availability
Dog walking is my primary occupation. I'm generally available 7 days a week even on short notice, including holidays. I don't typically take time off unless it's necessary.
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About Matthew S.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
I have a small, well-kept fenced in back yard for the dogs to run free. I have different sized crates and several dog gates to accommodate or separate dogs when necessary for safety or comfort. The dogs will always have plenty of bedding, clean dishes and fresh water.
Information Matthew S. would like to know about your pet
Before meeting a potential new dog, it's important for the client and I to discuss their pets' health, behaviors and habits, triggers or reactive tendencies and any other special needs or preferences. That information will help me create a more positive interaction when meeting your dog(s) for the time.
A typical day
Dogs will have a variety of safe and appropriate toys to choose from, including mentally stimulating puzzle solving games. We'll get plenty of excercise every day, whether it's going for a simple walk and exploring the neighborhood, playing fetch with a favorite ball or frisbee, or going to one of the nearby dog parks to socialize and try out the agility equipment. I always try to incorporate some level basic obedience into our daily routine such as learning how to wait before entering and exiting vehicles, walking appropriately on a leash, working on recall and remaining calm during overly stimulating or unexpected situations. Not only is it mentally stimulating for dogs, it's necessary in order to build a bond with your pet and create a safer, more predictable and controlled environment for everyone involved.
Location
Rice Lake, WI
Experienced. Reliable. Flexible.
Pet care experience
My name is Matt, dog walking/caretaking/house sitting has been my sole occupation for the past 11 years. I started working with dogs as the primary animal caretaker for a daycare where we also provided boarding, grooming and professional training services. During my three years there, working alongside a professional trainer and groomer, I developed a deep understanding of canine behavior and communication and have handled all different types of personalities, breeds, temperaments and sizes of dogs from newborn puppies to large and difficult or aggressive dogs. I also have experience administering meds and caring for dogs with various health conditions or disabilities including dogs with missing limbs, blindness, hearing loss, diabetes and epilepsy. Your pet's safety is my top priority, I carry water and first aid supplies on walks and only use positive reinforcement methods when working with animals. I do not take an "alpha male" approach with dogs, I understand that building trust requires patience, a mutual understanding of boundaries and keeping interactions positive.
Reviews
Matt is fantastic! He showed up right on time, and braved the deep negative temperatures to give my dog a full, nice walk every time - was great about being flexible when my schedule slightly changed, and was very attentive and observant...also always provided info about each walk with a picture. Highly recommend and I've already booked him for more dog walking services! Thanks Matt!!
Always does a great job and the dogs love him!
Excellent response rate. Flexible, timely, and even was able to win Bella over enough to sneak in some pets which takes some doing!
Matt is a very thoughtful dog walker/carer. He has been taking care of animals for people for many years and has loyal customers. You can trust he will care for your pet like it's his own.
About Matthew S.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
I have a small, well-kept fenced in back yard for the dogs to run free. I have different sized crates and several dog gates to accommodate or separate dogs when necessary for safety or comfort. The dogs will always have plenty of bedding, clean dishes and fresh water.
Information Matthew S. would like to know about your pet
Before meeting a potential new dog, it's important for the client and I to discuss their pets' health, behaviors and habits, triggers or reactive tendencies and any other special needs or preferences. That information will help me create a more positive interaction when meeting your dog(s) for the time.
A typical day
Dogs will have a variety of safe and appropriate toys to choose from, including mentally stimulating puzzle solving games. We'll get plenty of excercise every day, whether it's going for a simple walk and exploring the neighborhood, playing fetch with a favorite ball or frisbee, or going to one of the nearby dog parks to socialize and try out the agility equipment. I always try to incorporate some level basic obedience into our daily routine such as learning how to wait before entering and exiting vehicles, walking appropriately on a leash, working on recall and remaining calm during overly stimulating or unexpected situations. Not only is it mentally stimulating for dogs, it's necessary in order to build a bond with your pet and create a safer, more predictable and controlled environment for everyone involved.
Matthew S.
Rice Lake, WI