Michael F.
Michael F.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Kind, positive, care.
I am a professional dog trainer with 6 yrs experience. I use only positive reinforcement. I am trauma informed. I have taken on two rescue dogs who needed a lot of support and patience. I have 27yrs experience as Secondary school teacher, an education/SEN specialist, working with young people. I am a qualified teacher with enhanced DBS. I am qualified in Canine first aid.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Once again Mike has been amazing looking after both our boys. It has provided us as a family with great peace of mind that our beloved dogs are cared for by Mike as if they were his own. Mike provided daily updates with photos and even went the extra mile to spend time with them to alleviate any stress with both of them. Both our boys looked to be having a ball! It is clear that this is not a job for Mike but a clear vocation based on his level of care displayed. I’d highly recommend his services and will not hesitate to book Mike again in the future. Thanks Mike!
Our booking with Michael did not go smoothly due to a couple of issues outwith anyone’s control- unfortunately his dog was unwell and our dog went in to season- but Michael TRULY went above and beyond to help us out with care for conkers. He could have easily declined our booking but he seems to be a genuine guy who wouldn’t like to let anyone down. Conkers had a great weekend with him- long walks, cuddly evenings - and Mike kept us posted with lots of messages and pictures too so we could see how much she was enjoying his company. We will definitely try to get booked in with Mike for future holidays- we know Conkers will be in very safe hands.
Thank you for taking such good care of Minnie today she had a great time and is now fast asleep! 😁
Michael took the time to come and meet Bailey before the walk so that they could get to know each other first. Bailey was then very happy to see him and walk with him a few days later. Michael sent a very detailed report of how they got on and some pictures - Bailey obviously thoroughly enjoyed himself! Very happy with the care Michael took and hope Bailey can walk with him again soon!
Michael has been absolutely brilliant at working with Steve - who can be reactive and take time to build trust in new people. I feel confident knowing Steve is heading out on a walk that he is in safe and knowledgable hands and Michael respects his boundaries. Would absolutely recommend
Bailey enjoyed his stay with Michael. I think he enjoyed having the other dogs around for company. He obviously had plenty of cuddles. Regular updates and photos or my mind at ease at leaving him. Would have no problem recommending Michael and won't hesitate to leaving Bailey with him again.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
Routine is important, but so is flexibility depending on the dog's needs. Generally we walk at about 8am, eat, then rest for a couple of hrs. Afternoon activity/outing/walk (weather dependant) and then a late afternoon walk followed by food. If required, evening walk/toilet opportunity before bed.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
Boundaries and safety are important. In my home I have two elderly (yet very agile) cats, so chasing is not allowed, we set up physical boundaries. Garden is large enclosed/mature, set back from a private road, with lots of shady areas, lots of water sources (small fountain, bowl and paddling pool in the summer). In a client's home I am happy to stick to their regular boundaries, and can train to support/create positive boundaries and behaviours in the home.
Pets
A typical day
Typical day is a morning walk across fields or in woods before breakfast. Some training, games and mental stimulation during the morning. An early afternoon walk, explore, socialisation and a final walk before dinner in the evening. Dogs will sit with us or go to their own room (with beds and crates) later in the evening (9pm onwards), although sometimes they might choose to stay up until we go to bed. Always offer a before bedtime wee in the garden.