Petsitting full-time has been the best decision I've ever made for my mental health. I've been trying for a long time to have a "normal" 9-5 job, but I recently made the important realization that "normal" looks different for everybody, and I'm happiest when I can make my own schedule! Caring for your pets gives me purpose, it gives me ambition, and when petsitting is my main source of income, it's a great incentive to do my best work every time! I've been petsitting on Rover since May of 2023, and I've learned so much about what it means to be a caring, responsible, vigilant, hardworking, and sometimes creative animal caretaker. While I've had part-time jobs at the same time, I've realized that I thrive best when I prioritize caring for your four-legged family members versus some office job. My love for animals and delight in caring for them full-time isn't something that only started as an adult. When I was a toddler, my first word was "doggy", so it was no surprise to anyone that I grew up to be the local "dog whisperer"! I was friends with and loved every dog in my neighborhood, including the curmudgeonly ones who didn't like anyone. As an adult, the natural energy I have with animals has been honed as I have been trained in numerous fields of pet care. I have experience working with and caring for a wide variety of animals, including dogs, cats, hamsters, gerbils, chinchillas, mice, rats, ferrets, leopard geckos, crested geckos, bearded dragons, iguanas, snakes, fish, songbirds, and chickens! I have worked as a dog and cat nutrition expert, an assistant dog groomer, a doggy daycare attendant, and a receptionist at a high-volume veterinary clinic. I believe in early socialization, positive reinforcement training, excellent quality feeding, and lots of cuddle time. I am excited to meet your pets!