Michelle S.
Riverside, TX
Former animal shelter staff now WFH
Pet care experience
Hi pet parents! As a former animal shelter staffer, I have plenty of professional experience handling and caring for dogs, including positive reinforcement training and medical care. Now, as a full-time work from home employee with Travis County, I dogsit just for the love of it! I've been dogsitting regularly for over a decade, watching a number of different types of dogs-- old, young, sick, very rambunctious, active, easy-going, dogs with strict diets, dogs with strict training regiments. I like to keep folks updated while I watch their dogs, with texts and photos, so you'll never worry about how your dog is doing. Expect lots of photos! I have one dog of my own, a 11 year old Italian greyhound. She is spayed and very sweet. She gets along with other dogs but can be shy at first (she has a classic greyhoundish nervous disposition). She generally prefers to ignore other dogs these days, but if your pup has a similarly chill personality and love for naps, she’ll happily cuddle with them on the couch! Your dog will be in good hands— I know how stressful boarding can sometimes be for pets and pet parents alike, and work with each family to make sure I deliver the best possible care at all times. Feel free to ask any questions when first considering a booking with me!
Reviews
Traveling is so much easier and stress free knowing my pup is safe with Michelle. The pictures we get tell it all, my fur baby feels right at home during her stays and Michelle treats her like family. Thank you!
My girls had a great time staying with Michelle! Thanks as always!
Michelle and her husband are the best dog sitters I could ask for. As a rescue pup, Bill has some quirks so he requires a little bit more attention, and as his mom I get anxious whenever I leave him, especially with new sitters. I can say that Bill warmed up quickly to his new friends and Michelle put my anxiety at ease with consistent updates and photos while we were away. They are my new favorite sitters and I highly recommend them.
Michelle is absolutely amazing with our pup! Tinker has been slow to warm up to strangers and can spook easily in scary situations, so finding someone we could really trust and fully relax with was a challenge. Tinker warmed up to Michelle and her pup Bobi faster than I would have ever expected, enjoying couch snuggles and even showing her belly in full relax mode. I'm so glad we found Michelle, it's such a load off my mind and I can enjoy my own travels knowing Tinker is in such good hands. Thank you!
About Michelle S.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
When your pup is at my home, they'll be treated like family. I'll follow your directions closely, but also make sure that your pup's staycation is just as fun as the trip you'll be going on!
Home
Information Michelle S. would like to know about your pet
What is your dog's usual schedule like? What makes your dog nervous or scared or territorial, and what do you do to keep him calm? How often and for how long does your dog like to go out for walks? How is your dog with other dogs?
A typical day
I dog sit because I love dogs-- so your dog will have my full attention when I'm taking care of him or her. We'll go on walks, have focused play time, and do whatever other activities will make your dog engaged, active, and comfortable. I live right next to Lady Bird Lake's hike and bike trail, and right near several dog parks, so when it isn't too hot, we'll spend time outside. I also have lots of indoor space and toys and puzzles to play with, so they'll still have plenty of stimulation on those sweltering days too.
Services
Michelle can host
Michelle can watch in your home
Availability
I work from home full-time, so am always around to care for pups. My husband also sits for Rover occasionally, and we share responsibilities-- so your dog will get plenty of attention, no matter what, and will never be left alone. I cannot accept drop offs or pickups before 8am or after 10pm— if that’s an issue, let me know & we can try to work something out!
About Michelle S.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
When your pup is at my home, they'll be treated like family. I'll follow your directions closely, but also make sure that your pup's staycation is just as fun as the trip you'll be going on!
Home
Information Michelle S. would like to know about your pet
What is your dog's usual schedule like? What makes your dog nervous or scared or territorial, and what do you do to keep him calm? How often and for how long does your dog like to go out for walks? How is your dog with other dogs?
A typical day
I dog sit because I love dogs-- so your dog will have my full attention when I'm taking care of him or her. We'll go on walks, have focused play time, and do whatever other activities will make your dog engaged, active, and comfortable. I live right next to Lady Bird Lake's hike and bike trail, and right near several dog parks, so when it isn't too hot, we'll spend time outside. I also have lots of indoor space and toys and puzzles to play with, so they'll still have plenty of stimulation on those sweltering days too.
Location
Austin, TX
Pets
Michelle S.
Riverside, TX