I work full time at Shenandoah University and am joining Rover to formalize my side hustle, which Ive largely managed through word of mouth thus far. I’ve lived with dogs for about 25 of my 30 years of life - mostly hounds (most recently 2 bassets). And I’ve watched dogs of all sizes, the smallest being a chihuahua mix and the largest a Great Dane. Over the last 5 years or so, I’ve dog sat for friends, family, and connections in the Winchester area. The longest engagement was 6 weeks, but I normally do long weekends or week long jobs. All animals are different and I respect you, their owner, to tell me what’s best for your furry friend. I also will be transparent and over communicate with you so we both can be confident your animals have everything they need. I’m comfortable dispensing medication - including to the really picky ones (I can take a pill/pill pocket and sculpt it pretty much exactly the same shape and size as any mainstream kibble brand). I have experience with puppies and with our senior citizens, who both just need a little extra care and attention. I feel comfortable listening to animals and getting to know their personalities, which are all so different yet equally endearing. If they are trying to say something, though, I feel pretty confident I will notice it - especially after we’ve spent a few hours together. And, if they’re trying to say something and I don’t understand? I’ll reach out just to make sure. I just really, really love animals. I most often watch dogs but have also cared for cats, lizards, bunnies, chickens, and horses (although horses were largely just feeding and brushing/attention). I also have a rescue cat of my own, Luna, who has made me certain I’m equally a dog person AND a cat person. I work 9-5 M-F, and occasionally am tied up on weekends with happenings on campus. I can take an hour lunch (and flex a bit beyond if necessary) to visit the animals for attention and potty breaks. I am single, sober, and genuinely grateful for the work and the company. Animals have so much love to give, and i try to reciprocate that love indiscriminately. Thanks for your consideration and please let me know if I can answer any questions, hop on a zoom call, or speak to any specific needs you find important. No request is too small and I’m grateful for any and all details I can use to keep your animals feeling secure, loved, and cared for in your absence.