Nicola R.
Nicola R.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Treats your dog like their own
Hello there I’m Nicola, a caring and highly experienced dog walker/ sitter serving Canterbury and surrounding villages. I only look after solo pets and those from the same household. My 'speciality' is reassuring nervous dogs (as well as anxious owners!) I can be flexibly with my availability; whether you need regular weekday walks or occasional pet services. I work fully remotely so make a great daytime companion (I am a part-time researcher/ advocate for refugee rights). If you require a pet service not explicit on my profile do get in touch, I am always open to new ideas and learning new skills. I have had rescue dogs throughout my life, including "failed" police dogs and elderly dogs. Previously, I fostered Romanian rescue dogs, ahead of helping them find their forever homes. I have cared for puppies, elderly pets and those with mobility and/ or health considerations.
Cat care experience
Nicola also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Nicola and her family were lovely. Pixie was immediately at home when we visited before her stay so I knew she would be happy there. I will definitely rebook
So grateful to have found Nicola - after moving to the area not knowing anyone, so glad to have found such a perfect person to help look after Ralph my feline furry baby! Nicola has been friendly, flexible, helpful and really looked after Ralph while In as away. She has been sending updates, photos and funny stories about his adventures which really put my mind at ease & allowed me to have a great time away knowing all was well and Ralph was in safe hands the whole time. I cannot recommend Nicola enough and glad to have found Ralph's new part time step Mum for the future, if you need help with you four legged family give Nicola a shout, you won't regret it for a second!
Nicola and family where great . Billy had a great time and he was very excited from the start and settled in straight away . I definitely would recommend Nicola an excellent stay all round 🐶
Our dog Molly had a wonderful 10 days with Nicola and her family. Nicola is warm, caring and very communicative, providing us with regular updates and photos. Nicola and her family clearly love dogs and provide a warm and welcoming environment. We will absolutely be asking her to care for Molly again!
Nicola has a natural affinity with dogs and she certainly was a big hit with Tula
Nicola was really great. Great communication prior and kept me updated with photos of Wolfe having the most chilled out time both on the evening and next morning of boarding. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a dog sitter
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I already have some regular dog walking Clients but have recently gained capacity to take on more work (I am new to Rover). I am now also available for pet sitting whether at my home or yours. I have an enclosed garden, and my home is located a short distance from public footpaths and fields. After saying goodbye to my beloved fur-son last year I do not currently have pets myself (still too bereft!) I have a primary school aged child who is very used to dogs of all ages and sizes (but this would need to be considered ahead of overnight stays my home).
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
I have 25+ years' experience caring for my own/ other people's pets, including in their own homes. As well as previously fostering Romanian rescue dogs, I have cared for puppies, elderly pets and those with health considerations. I am also highly experienced in working with vulnerable people. I hold an enhanced DBS check and my own insurance.
A typical day
I only look after solo pets or those from the same household, as such I can take the lead from my Clients as to how I can best tailor my day to suit their pet. Some of the activities dogs enjoy with me include: energetic walks in the countryside/ beach/ forest/ park, slower paced pavement walks with lots of sniffs, being carried/ pushed and enjoying the sounds and smells of outdoors, lounging in my garden or on my sofa, playing fetch/ tug of war/ puzzle toys, hanging out in cafes. I have even been known to offer the full 'pet experience' and take other people's dogs for day trips with me and my family. I am also always open to ideas and suggestions. Some of the activities cats enjoy with me include: lots of cuddles, absolutely no fuss (but like sitting in close proximity to me), playing with toys, bird watching (responsibly), puzzle feeders, cuddles, naps.
- 0 to 7 kg7 to 18 kg18 to 45 kgover 45 kgDogs over 1 year oldUnspayed females accepted, neutered males onlyNo females in heatTakes only 1 client at a timeNicola can host up to 2 pets per night
- Let me know the size, breed and temperament of your cat/ dog as well as some of the activities they might enjoy. It is essential that your pet is up to date on flea treatment (I have been bitten here before, literally!) For overnight stays at my house I only accept dogs that are well socialised and will need to meet them in advance.