Nicole H.
Lake Hills, WA
Happy dogs & kitters, lets play!
Pet care experience
Hi there! My name is Nicole and I look forward to meeting you and your family! I primarily service the greater Crossroads/Bellevue area. I do have a pup of my own, so I currently only offer housesitting stays of a few days or less. (If your pets/household are friendly to him coming along we can discuss alternatives.) I am a very experienced and professional walker and sitter who is timely, dependable, and engaged with your pet's safety and enjoyment throughout our time together. I use special locking leash gear to reduce escape risk, and always check to make sure your pets collar/harness is securely fastened before heading out. We practice good manners on our walks, incorporating basic training and supporting positive interactions with other people and dogs. With your permission, I'll happily leave your pet with a special treat, chew, or fun toy to help them relax again after our walk. Likewise during sitting stays; I often come prepared with a "doggy fun bag" arsenal! I ensure your best buds get daily walks/appropriate exercise, play time, as well as time spent on basic training and basic grooming. In short, they get lots of company, engagement, attention and FUN!! My Background: I have worked in and around the pet industry for the last 12+ years, including six years working with pet medical insurance. I started my pet care business "Breaktime Playtime" in June of 2015 and have been dog-walking and pet-sitting most days ever since :) I took a break after the pandemic but I miss it too much so starting back up part-time. You can find us on Facebook and Instagram under Breaktime Playtime. (Admittedly I don't post very often, but try to still give a regular peek into my days from time to time!) I gained additional animal care experience in the past via volunteering and fostering with the Seattle Beagle Rescue, and participating in a variety of positive-reinforcement based training classes and dog-related activities. I love Zoom Room in Bellevue! Personal Info: When I'm not hanging with our furry friends, I work as a program manager for youth. I highly value being outdoors, whether hiking, climbing or camping -- and I'd love to take your adventure-friendly dog along! ------
Reviews
Nicole has been a wonderful, caring, reliable, and responsible care-taker for our very sweet and active dog Sunny. Sunny LOVES Nicole, and we are so comforted when Sunny is with her. Nicole communicates often and well, and she is playful, kind, and fun!
Nicole has stopped in to visit our cats multiple times now when we have been out. She is dependable and does a great job. We are lucky to have her nearby.
Nicole is excellent. Committed, caring, and dependable. We have used her services a number of times and have been very pleased with her work. 5 stars!
Second time we’ve used Nicole. She does a great job and always goes above and beyond.
About Nicole H.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
In my home: I live in a condo with a private fenced yard for quick potty breaks, or an happy to take your pet on walks. I do have a 1yr old Chihuahua mix who is typically very dog friendly, though he can get overwhelmed with very energetic dogs.
Home
Information Nicole H. would like to know about your pet
Before sitting your dog, I'll want to know your usual routines so I can mimic it as much as possible. Special Services: * Grooming basics available FREE! Think brushing, eye and ear cleaning. Nail trimming available if your pet is comfortable with it. Just leave their tools out and I'll do what I can. (Please note that I can only offer these services for pets who readily accept it - I am not trained as a groomer and thus not able to offer more extensive services.) * I am trained in giving IV fluids and can usually pill a cat. I have experience with some special needs pets, but we would need to discuss the scope to ensure I am able to give proper care. * If your household keeps aquatic life or other unique pets, I can most likely care for them as well! I would be happy to take care of that overdue water change for you, and have directly cared for rabbits, hamsters, ratties, African Grey parrots, lizards, a pot belly pig, and more! ***Boarding requests*** Keep in mind that when boarding your pet, you are asking them to be comfortable with both being in a brand new environment and with new people. For many dogs, this is likely to put them on edge, which can cause them to exhibit new or unusual behaviors. For this reason, I prefer to board pets I have a existing relationship with, either from dog walks or from previous pet-sits in their home. If you are interested in boarding, I may ask to schedule a couple walks or drop in visits prior to your trip so that we have a chance to get to know each other. At minimum I require a trial run visit (no last minute boardings).
A typical day
I am a strong believer in the power of exercise, both physical AND mental. This can include walks, rounds of tricks, or time with puzzle toys. I maintain an awareness of your pet's mood and am cognizant of keeping them comfortable and confident (and thus relaxed and happy!). I also happily provide new toys and safe chew bones (bully sticks, etc) with owner approval. Your babies get spoiled with me - after all, it's their vacation too! :) * I do not do dog parks or other off-leash situations until I have*both an existing relationship with your pet as well as your blessing!
Services
Nicole can host
Nicole can watch in your home
Availability
I have a flexible work schedule. I can provide bathroom breaks and activity time every 3-4 hours if not more often. I will review your pets needs with you to make sure it will be a good fit.
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About Nicole H.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
In my home: I live in a condo with a private fenced yard for quick potty breaks, or an happy to take your pet on walks. I do have a 1yr old Chihuahua mix who is typically very dog friendly, though he can get overwhelmed with very energetic dogs.
Home
Information Nicole H. would like to know about your pet
Before sitting your dog, I'll want to know your usual routines so I can mimic it as much as possible. Special Services: * Grooming basics available FREE! Think brushing, eye and ear cleaning. Nail trimming available if your pet is comfortable with it. Just leave their tools out and I'll do what I can. (Please note that I can only offer these services for pets who readily accept it - I am not trained as a groomer and thus not able to offer more extensive services.) * I am trained in giving IV fluids and can usually pill a cat. I have experience with some special needs pets, but we would need to discuss the scope to ensure I am able to give proper care. * If your household keeps aquatic life or other unique pets, I can most likely care for them as well! I would be happy to take care of that overdue water change for you, and have directly cared for rabbits, hamsters, ratties, African Grey parrots, lizards, a pot belly pig, and more! ***Boarding requests*** Keep in mind that when boarding your pet, you are asking them to be comfortable with both being in a brand new environment and with new people. For many dogs, this is likely to put them on edge, which can cause them to exhibit new or unusual behaviors. For this reason, I prefer to board pets I have a existing relationship with, either from dog walks or from previous pet-sits in their home. If you are interested in boarding, I may ask to schedule a couple walks or drop in visits prior to your trip so that we have a chance to get to know each other. At minimum I require a trial run visit (no last minute boardings).
A typical day
I am a strong believer in the power of exercise, both physical AND mental. This can include walks, rounds of tricks, or time with puzzle toys. I maintain an awareness of your pet's mood and am cognizant of keeping them comfortable and confident (and thus relaxed and happy!). I also happily provide new toys and safe chew bones (bully sticks, etc) with owner approval. Your babies get spoiled with me - after all, it's their vacation too! :) * I do not do dog parks or other off-leash situations until I have*both an existing relationship with your pet as well as your blessing!
Location
Bellevue, WA
Pets
Nicole H.
Lake Hills, WA