I want any dog staying with me to feel safe, relaxed and very much at home. I have my own two-year-old dog, Jimmy, who is very much part of the family (and yes, dogs are allowed on the sofa!), and I have a safe, private garden. I would generally only board one dog at a time, so they would get plenty of individual attention and I would always want to make sure they were comfortable with Jimmy before a stay. I try to follow each dog’s usual routine as closely as possible, including feeding, walks, sleeping arrangements and any medication or individual needs. I’m at home a lot, so dogs staying with me would have plenty of company and wouldn’t routinely be left for long periods. Having worked as a veterinary nurse for 11 years and then as a professional dog walker for 9 years, I’m very experienced with dogs of different breeds, ages and temperaments. I’m comfortable administering medication where required and am used to recognising changes in a dog’s behaviour or wellbeing. On walks, dogs would be kept safely on a lead unless specifically agreed otherwise with their owner, and I would always follow any instructions regarding recall, other dogs, livestock or anything their dog may find difficult. For home visits and pet sitting, I would treat both the animal and the owner’s home with the same care and respect I would expect for my own, following their instructions closely and making sure pets are safe and settled before I leave. Above all, I want owners to feel completely comfortable leaving their pet with me and to know they’ll be cared for with plenty of attention, affection and common sense.