Michelle M.
Stretford
Pet sitter in Stretford and surrounding area
Pet care experience
With a diverse background in caring for various animals—ranging from cats and dogs to ferrets, terrapins, and hamsters—I bring a uniquely comprehensive perspective to pet sitting. My current companions are two wonderful cats, which has deepened my understanding and sensitivity to the needs of feline friends. However, my experience extends beyond just cats and dogs. Here are a few areas where I believe my skills truly stand out: 1. **Broad-Spectrum Animal Care:** Having managed the well-being of multiple species, I am attuned to the different signs of distress, happiness, or health issues across a variety of animals. This broad experience enables me to quickly adapt to the needs of each pet, whether they are covered in fur, feathers, or scales. 2. **Behavioral Insights:** My extensive exposure to different pets has equipped me with valuable insights into animal behavior. For example, I am skilled in recognizing the subtle signs of anxiety in dogs, cats, and even smaller pets like hamsters, which can be crucial in preventing or managing stress-related behaviors. 3. **Specialized Senior Care:** My journey has also included caring for senior pets, requiring gentle handling, special diet plans, and medication management. Understanding the nuances of care needed by older pets, from mobility issues to diet modifications, allows me to provide them with a comfortable and nurturing environment. 4. **Medical Management:** I am proficient in administering both oral and injectable medications, a skill that has been honed through years of caring for pets with various health conditions. This capability is often essential for pet owners looking for a reliable sitter who can handle routine medical care. 5. **Emergency Preparedness:** I have trained myself to stay calm and effective in emergency situations, ensuring that I can provide quick and decisive actions if a pet under my care needs urgent attention. 6. **Commitment to Fun and Active Engagement:** Understanding that each pet has its unique personality and preferences, I am dedicated to creating engaging and stimulating environments for them, tailored to their specific likes and activities. This ensures they remain active, happy, and healthy under my care. By combining a love for all animals with a solid foundation in practical care techniques and emergency preparedness, I am able to offer a level of care that is attentive, loving, and tailored to meet the needs of each unique pet. This comprehensive approach sets me apart from other sitters, making me a reliable choice for owners who seek peace of mind while they are away from their beloved pets.
About Michelle M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I When caring for pets, either in my home or in a pet owner’s home, my approach is tailored to meet the specific needs of each pet to ensure they receive the best possible care and feel comfortable and safe. Here’s how I manage both situations: **1. In My Home:** - **Safe Environment:** I ensure my home is a safe space for pets, free from hazards and with plenty of room for them to play and rest. I use pet-proofing techniques like securing loose wires, removing small objects that could be swallowed, and ensuring any toxic plants are out of reach. - **Routine:** I try to maintain the pet's normal routine to minimize stress. This includes feeding schedules, walk times, and any specific instructions regarding their diet or medication. - **Exercise and Play:** Adequate physical activity and playtime are crucial. I have a variety of toys and a secure area for outdoor play. I make sure each pet gets individual attention and exercise tailored to their energy levels and health. - **Comfort:** I provide comfortable sleeping areas and personal space for each pet. Understanding that some pets might need extra comfort items like their favorite toy or blanket, I encourage pet owners to bring these along. **2. In a Pet Owner’s Home:** - **Respect and Care:** I treat the owner’s home with respect, ensuring it is kept clean and secure. I follow specific instructions about home access and security systems. - **Maintain Routine:** Keeping consistent with the pet’s usual environment and routine is key. I adhere to the pet's feeding, walking, and medication schedule as closely as possible. - **Monitoring and Health:** I keep a close eye on the pet’s health and behavior. If there are any signs of illness or distress, I communicate with the owner immediately and seek veterinary care if necessary. - **Updates and Communication:** I provide regular updates to the owner about their pet’s status and activities through texts, calls, or pictures, depending on the owner's preference. In both cases, I am always attentive to the needs and well-being of the pets, providing love and care as if they were my own. I’m certified in pet first aid and stay informed about the best practices in pet care, which reassures owners that their beloved pets are in capable hands.
Information Michelle M. would like to know about your pet
Knowing key details about your pet in advance helps us tailor our services to meet their unique needs! Before your visit, please share your pet's breed, age, behavior tendencies, any special dietary restrictions or medical conditions, and their favorite toys and treats. This ensures I can provide the best care and make their experience with us as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. 1. **Type and Breed**: Knowing the type of pet (e.g., dog, cat, bird, reptile) and its breed can help predict certain behavioral traits, health issues, and care needs. 2. **Age**: The age of the pet affects its dietary needs, activity level, and medical care. For example, puppies and kittens require different feeding schedules and vaccinations compared to adult pets. 3. **Health History**: Awareness of any past illnesses, injuries, or ongoing conditions (like diabetes, arthritis, or allergies) is crucial. This information will help in managing the pet’s health effectively and deciding on appropriate treatments or adjustments in care. 4. **Diet**: Details about the pet's regular diet and feeding schedule are necessary to maintain consistency and prevent gastrointestinal issues. It’s also important to know about any food allergies or sensitivities the pet may have. 5. **Behavior and Temperament**: Understanding a pet's behavior and temperament, including how they react to other animals, strangers, or stressful situations, can help in handling them better and making them feel comfortable. 6. **Routine**: Pets often thrive on routine. Knowing their typical schedule for walks, playtime, feeding, and sleep can help minimize anxiety and behavioral issues. 7. **Vaccinations and Medications**: Keeping track of vaccination records and any regular medications the pet requires is vital for maintaining their health and preventing diseases. 8. **Emergency Contacts**: It’s essential to have the contact information for the pet’s veterinarian, as well as an emergency vet, in case of sudden illness or injury. 9. **Legal Requirements**: Some pets may have specific legal requirements, such as registration, microchipping, or permits, especially in the case of exotic animals. 10. **Special Needs**: Some pets may have special needs due to their health, age, or past traumas. This might include specific handling techniques, environmental adjustments, or therapy.
A typical day
A typical day taking care of pets is always filled with fun and engaging activities tailored to each pet's needs and preferences. I start the morning with a brisk walk or run, which is a great way for dogs especially to expend some energy and start the day on a positive note. Depending on the pet, we might go to a local park or just stroll around the neighborhood. Midday is usually time for some mental stimulation. I like to incorporate training sessions which are not only fun but also reinforce good behaviors. For dogs, we might work on commands or tricks, which can be both rewarding and mentally engaging for them. For cats, this could involve interactive toys or puzzles that challenge them to think and keep them entertained. In the afternoon, depending on the weather and the pet’s energy level, we might have some playtime either indoors or out in the yard. This could be anything from fetch with dogs to teaser toys for cats. It's all about keeping the pets active and happy. Towards the evening, after dinner, it’s usually a good time for a more relaxed activity, like a gentle walk or some quiet time together. This helps them wind down before bedtime. Some pets enjoy being read to or listening to calm music, which can be a soothing end to an exciting day. Overall, each day is about balancing physical activity with plenty of cuddles and attention to make sure the pets are not only physically active but also feeling loved and cared for.
Services
Michelle can watch in your home
Availability
Balancing freelance work from home with pet care actually fits quite seamlessly into my daily routine. Since I have the flexibility to set my own schedule, I can easily allocate time for regular walks, feeding, and play sessions throughout the day. This ensures that my pet is well taken care of and doesn't feel neglected, even when I have deadlines to meet. I typically start my day early with a quick walk, which is a nice way for both of us to get some fresh air and exercise before I dive into work. I then schedule short breaks at regular intervals during the day for feeding and playtime, which not only helps keep my pet happy but also gives me necessary breaks from screen time and sitting. These breaks improve my productivity and creativity when I return to work. Additionally, working from home means I’m around for those unexpected moments of pet care, like a sudden need to go out or simply some extra cuddle time. This flexible routine helps in maintaining a healthy balance between meeting my professional commitments and ensuring my pet’s well-being and happiness.
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About Michelle M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I When caring for pets, either in my home or in a pet owner’s home, my approach is tailored to meet the specific needs of each pet to ensure they receive the best possible care and feel comfortable and safe. Here’s how I manage both situations: **1. In My Home:** - **Safe Environment:** I ensure my home is a safe space for pets, free from hazards and with plenty of room for them to play and rest. I use pet-proofing techniques like securing loose wires, removing small objects that could be swallowed, and ensuring any toxic plants are out of reach. - **Routine:** I try to maintain the pet's normal routine to minimize stress. This includes feeding schedules, walk times, and any specific instructions regarding their diet or medication. - **Exercise and Play:** Adequate physical activity and playtime are crucial. I have a variety of toys and a secure area for outdoor play. I make sure each pet gets individual attention and exercise tailored to their energy levels and health. - **Comfort:** I provide comfortable sleeping areas and personal space for each pet. Understanding that some pets might need extra comfort items like their favorite toy or blanket, I encourage pet owners to bring these along. **2. In a Pet Owner’s Home:** - **Respect and Care:** I treat the owner’s home with respect, ensuring it is kept clean and secure. I follow specific instructions about home access and security systems. - **Maintain Routine:** Keeping consistent with the pet’s usual environment and routine is key. I adhere to the pet's feeding, walking, and medication schedule as closely as possible. - **Monitoring and Health:** I keep a close eye on the pet’s health and behavior. If there are any signs of illness or distress, I communicate with the owner immediately and seek veterinary care if necessary. - **Updates and Communication:** I provide regular updates to the owner about their pet’s status and activities through texts, calls, or pictures, depending on the owner's preference. In both cases, I am always attentive to the needs and well-being of the pets, providing love and care as if they were my own. I’m certified in pet first aid and stay informed about the best practices in pet care, which reassures owners that their beloved pets are in capable hands.
Information Michelle M. would like to know about your pet
Knowing key details about your pet in advance helps us tailor our services to meet their unique needs! Before your visit, please share your pet's breed, age, behavior tendencies, any special dietary restrictions or medical conditions, and their favorite toys and treats. This ensures I can provide the best care and make their experience with us as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. 1. **Type and Breed**: Knowing the type of pet (e.g., dog, cat, bird, reptile) and its breed can help predict certain behavioral traits, health issues, and care needs. 2. **Age**: The age of the pet affects its dietary needs, activity level, and medical care. For example, puppies and kittens require different feeding schedules and vaccinations compared to adult pets. 3. **Health History**: Awareness of any past illnesses, injuries, or ongoing conditions (like diabetes, arthritis, or allergies) is crucial. This information will help in managing the pet’s health effectively and deciding on appropriate treatments or adjustments in care. 4. **Diet**: Details about the pet's regular diet and feeding schedule are necessary to maintain consistency and prevent gastrointestinal issues. It’s also important to know about any food allergies or sensitivities the pet may have. 5. **Behavior and Temperament**: Understanding a pet's behavior and temperament, including how they react to other animals, strangers, or stressful situations, can help in handling them better and making them feel comfortable. 6. **Routine**: Pets often thrive on routine. Knowing their typical schedule for walks, playtime, feeding, and sleep can help minimize anxiety and behavioral issues. 7. **Vaccinations and Medications**: Keeping track of vaccination records and any regular medications the pet requires is vital for maintaining their health and preventing diseases. 8. **Emergency Contacts**: It’s essential to have the contact information for the pet’s veterinarian, as well as an emergency vet, in case of sudden illness or injury. 9. **Legal Requirements**: Some pets may have specific legal requirements, such as registration, microchipping, or permits, especially in the case of exotic animals. 10. **Special Needs**: Some pets may have special needs due to their health, age, or past traumas. This might include specific handling techniques, environmental adjustments, or therapy.
A typical day
A typical day taking care of pets is always filled with fun and engaging activities tailored to each pet's needs and preferences. I start the morning with a brisk walk or run, which is a great way for dogs especially to expend some energy and start the day on a positive note. Depending on the pet, we might go to a local park or just stroll around the neighborhood. Midday is usually time for some mental stimulation. I like to incorporate training sessions which are not only fun but also reinforce good behaviors. For dogs, we might work on commands or tricks, which can be both rewarding and mentally engaging for them. For cats, this could involve interactive toys or puzzles that challenge them to think and keep them entertained. In the afternoon, depending on the weather and the pet’s energy level, we might have some playtime either indoors or out in the yard. This could be anything from fetch with dogs to teaser toys for cats. It's all about keeping the pets active and happy. Towards the evening, after dinner, it’s usually a good time for a more relaxed activity, like a gentle walk or some quiet time together. This helps them wind down before bedtime. Some pets enjoy being read to or listening to calm music, which can be a soothing end to an exciting day. Overall, each day is about balancing physical activity with plenty of cuddles and attention to make sure the pets are not only physically active but also feeling loved and cared for.
Location
Stretford, United Kingdom
Pets
Michelle M.
Stretford