Michael D.
Michael D.
Prices include all fees.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Paws & Claws Cardiff
I’m Mike, an animal lover based in Cardiff, and I’d be really happy to help look after your pets while you’re busy or away. I understand how important it is to find someone you can trust, so I always treat every pet as if they were my own – with patience, kindness and plenty of love and attention. I offer friendly, reliable dog walking for all ages and energy levels, from gentle strolls for older doggies to longer, more active walks for those who love to explore. I’m also available for dog sitting in your home, keeping to your normal routines with feeding, playtime, and any specific training or house rules you have. For cat owners, I provide calm and respectful cat sitting or daily check ins – fresh food and water, clean litter trays, play and cuddles (if your cat is the cuddly type!), and regular updates so you know they’re doing well. I’m also experienced with small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and fish, and I’m happy to follow detailed care instructions to make sure they feel safe and comfortable. I’m flexible, easy to contact and will keep you updated with daily messages and photos, so you always know how your pets are getting on. If you have any questions or special requirements, just let me know – I’ll do my best to tailor my care to your pet’s individual needs.
Cat care experience
Michael also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Stop scrolling, you have found your dog sitter! This guy is just wonderful. Having him in our home for the last week whilst we have been away has been so reassuring. He’s attentive, our dogs adore him and just an all round star who will allow you to enjoy your holiday without any worries about your beloved fur babies. Our girls are our world and Michael totally got that. Regular updates and we’ve come home to a spotless house. Just book him, you won’t regret it. Thank you Michael, we look forward to seeing you again ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Michael is such a wonderful sitter. My dog Buck loves him and we felt so comfortable leaving our dog with Michael whilst we were away for a week. We came back to a clean house and a happy content dog. Communication was great with lots of updates about buck. Thank you so much Michael, you are a wonderful person and I would recommend you to anyone!!!
Noodle loves his days with Michael!
Michael was excellent with our senior and slightly anxious dog, Scout. We were a little nervous about leaving Scout with a pet sitter, but from the moment we met Michael we knew that Scout would be in good hands. She took to him straight away and had clearly had a lovely weekend. He sent detailed daily updates and was clearly a very capable carer for her. He also left our house super clean and tidy. I would not hesitate to recommend Michael to anyone looking for someone calm, capable and caring to look after their dogs.
From the very first meeting Michael was warming, calming and friendly with me and Shelby. I was full of anxiety and guilt leaving my boy alone for a week but with the daily updates from Michael, together with his gentle nature I could enjoy my holiday with the reassurance that shelby was in safe hands. There aren't enough stars to reflect our gratitude. Thank you so much Michael!
Michael was amazing with Ruby. Nothing but great things to say, incredibly respectful, easy to communicate with. Kept us updated and even bought my beautiful girl a toy. I couldn’t reccomend Michael more. I will be 100% using him in future.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I work remotely (not office based), which allows me to provide consistent, attentive care and maintain a flexible routine tailored to each pet’s needs throughout the day and week. I have extensive experience with a wide range of animals, including dogs, cats, and smaller pets such as rabbits, hamsters, and fish. Growing up surrounded by animals and regularly caring for pets within my community has given me a deep understanding of different temperaments and care requirements. In addition to domestic pet care, I have spent many years working with wildlife as a conservationist and wildlife protection officer where I helped train and use working dogs on a daily basis, further strengthening my skills in animal handling and welfare. As I don’t currently have pets of my own, I’m able to dedicate my full time, attention, and care to the animals I look after. I am also trained in pet first aid and CPR.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
Safety, trust, and a calm environment are at the heart of how I care for every pet. As I work remotely (not office based), pets are never left alone for long periods and receive consistent supervision, attention, and companionship throughout the day. I take time to understand each pet’s individual routine, preferences, and any specific needs to ensure they feel secure and comfortable in my care. Be it walks, daily check ins or caring for pets in their owner’s home, I maintain a clean, hazard-free environment and follow all instructions carefully, including feeding routines, medication, and exercise requirements. I prioritise gentle handling, positive reinforcement, and creating a stress-free atmosphere, especially for more nervous or sensitive animals. With my background in animal care and wildlife work, I am confident in recognising changes in behaviour or health and responding appropriately. I am also trained in pet first aid and CPR, ensuring im alway providing extra reassurance that pets are in safe, capable hands at all times.
A typical day
Im very flexible as i believe the experience is all about making every day feel like a mini holiday for your pet while ensuring you have peace on mind that they are in good hands. I ensure each day is full of fun, care, and plenty of love and attention. A typical day would start with an energising walk or play session, followed by breakfast and some relaxed downtime. From there, it’s all about keeping your pet happy and engaged, whether that’s interactive games, enrichment activities, or just lots of affection and companionship. I love getting outdoors for walks tailored to your dog’s energy level—whether that’s a lively adventure or a gentle stroll around their favourite spots. In the home, I keep things calm, safe, and comforting so your pet feels completely at ease. I also send regular updates and photos, so you can relax knowing your pet is in great hands and having a brilliant time. My goal is simple: a happy, well-cared-for pet and total peace of mind for you.
- Cats0 to 7 kg7 to 18 kgNo females in heatTakes only 1 client at a timeMichael can host up to 2 pets per night
- Before looking after any pet, I like to understand their routine, personality, and any specific needs so I can give them the best possible care. It’s really helpful to know things like feeding schedules, exercise requirements, and any medical conditions or medications. I also like to learn about their behaviour—how they are with other dogs, new people, or being left alone—as well as any quirks, triggers, or things they particularly enjoy. Knowing their favourite toys, walking routes, and comfort habits helps me make their time with me feel as familiar and stress-free as possible. The more detail you can share, the better I can tailor my care and make sure your pet feels safe, happy, and comfortable.
Prices include all fees.