Nicole F.
Nicole F.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Trustworthy Pet Care
**Update as of May 24, 2026: As I am currently booked through the summer, fall, and into the Christmas season, I have closed requests to new customers for now. I will continue to take bookings from existing clients and clients who have booked with me in the past. I will also consider referrals. If you are a new client and have received a referral from someone who booked with me in the past, I will also consider opening up space. As 2027 approaches, I will likely open up bookings to new clients again.** - Experienced in animal care and handling including dogs, cats, birds, amphibians, reptiles and bees - Degree in Biology and experience working at a zoo and nature centre where I handled tractable animals for education programs, and cared for small reptiles and amphibians - I was the lead in the creation of the Dogs in Open Spaces (dog park) strategy for the City of Edmonton and currently oversee the off-leash dog park program - Have had 2 dogs for the last 10-13 years (both passed away (in 2020 and 2023) which is why we have room in our home to care for others' pets) - We have an 8-year-old son who loves animals and is comfortable around them - Our family has experience with rescue and foster dogs and shy/nervous dogs - Have multiple dog parks near our house, as well as a fenced backyard, and private family farm-land nearby where dogs can exercise (works well for shy dogs that don't enjoy the dog park, puppies that are not vaccinated yet, or dogs that don't do well around other dogs) - Good relationship with our local vet, which is less than 5 minutes from my house - Live in a 4-level split, with the ability to put up baby gates if 2 animals need to be separated for specific reasons - Own multiple dog crates, bowls, toys and leashes - so if you need me to provide certain supplies for boarding in my home or if you forget something when you drop off your pet, I have materials to choose from to ensure your dog is well cared for and safe.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Nicole is absolutely amazing! We couldn’t ask for a better person/family to watch Zeus & Thor. From the moment we met her, we felt completely comfortable knowing they were in such good hands. She made them feel right at home, and it was clear how much love, care, and attention she gave them. It’s such a relief to be able to leave our dogs with someone we completely trust. We came home to two happy pups, and that says everything! We would highly recommend Nicole to anyone looking for someone who will treat their pets like family. We will definitely be booking with her again!
Nicole was lovely and saved my butt when I needed a sitter for my pup on the wknd. She sent lots of pics and kept me updated throughout the day. Charlie was tuckered right out from all the fun when we got home. Best.
Nicole was amazing with our Puppy. Lots of photos and videos. Our pup was tuckered out after her visit.
Nicole is reliable, responsive, and very accommodating for dog care for our dog. If you need dog care, I’d definitely recommend her!
Nicole and her family are amazing, our beagle loves being there and is so happy when we arrive there. Love having someone we can trust with our boy!
Lulu spent 4 nights and she seemed happy and content with Nicole & family . Thank you for Caring for her and we hope to see you again soon .
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I am usually home during the day or the evening, so there is always someone around to care for a pet that would be staying in our home. I have a day job where I get to work from home 2-3 days per week, which allows me to let pets out multiple times per day and/or keep the patio door open so they can go in and out freely. For the 10 and 13 years we had 2 high-energy dogs (Australian Cattle Dog/Shepherd Mix) and pet care was part of our daily routine. Dog walks can happen on weekdays or weekends, during the day or evening.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
You can expect the following when your pet stays with me: -A safe and welcoming home for your pet. -I can maintain established routines your pet is comfortable with (feeding times, exercise needs, bathroom breaks, and any medication requirements). -I stick closely to the pet's usual diet as per instructions provided. -Engaging the pet in activities they enjoy is a priority. Regular walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation not only maintain their physical health but also keep them entertained. -Maintaining open communication with the pet's owner regularly sharing photos, videos, and messages. -In case of emergencies, I am familiar with nearby veterinary clinics or emergency services and have the pet's regular veterinarian's contact information readily available. -Respecting the pet's boundaries as some pets need time to adjust. -Treating your pet as if they are my own, providing love, attention and a secure atmosphere.
A typical day
Dogs will have access to a fenced backyard during the day. Some other fun activities include: - Walks, dog park, visits to our family farm-land to run around. - In non-winter months, I have a kiddie pool I can put out for dogs if I know they like playing in water. - I have multiple puzzle feeding bowls for dogs for enrichment. - Playing with dog toys, training games, enrichment
- 0 to 15 lbs16 to 40 lbs41 to 100 lbsover 101 lbsUnspayed females accepted, neutered males onlyNo females in heatNicole can host up to 2 pets per night
- - When finalizing your booking, please send a copy of your pet's most recent vaccines as we are required to keep copies of vaccines for insurance purposes. - Medical conditions - Medications - Feeding instructions - Food allergies or aversions - Behavioural issues - Fears or things that cause anxiety (e.g. other dogs, thunder, etc) - Whether the dog is ok around children and other animals - Other special considerations Please note that when accepting unneutered male dogs I will only accept dogs that owners confidently can say that they get along with other dogs, including unneutered males. Depending on the dog, I may only accept unneutered males when we have no other dogs staying with us. Depending on the situation I may only accept intact males that are too young to be neutered.