I have been surrounded by animals since I was a child and have a deep love and intuitive understanding for them as well as a naturally compassionate heart. Along with caring for my own dogs and cats through the years, I have also been the go-to person friends call upon when they need someone trustworthy to help care for and walk their animals. I have experience with dogs of all ages and sizes, including senior dogs and large breeds. My last dog that I called my own was a large senior German Shepherd, who I loved dearly, and who went everywhere with me until he passed away in 2019. He was also a certified therapy dog, and I took him to senior homes, hospitals and schools to give people the opportunity to be enriched through animal interactions. I am an avid nature lover and spend much of my own time hiking the many trails and beaches in the Half Moon Bay area where I live. My home is located in El Granada, an ideal location for access to the natural world. I love nothing more then to be outdoors, especially in the company of animals, and know tons of good places in the area to take animals on adventures and walks. Patience, kindness and responsibility are all strong traits of mine, as I have also spent much of my professional life taking care of children in addition to animals. I find that there are many similarities in the skill sets needed to care for both; at the core of it all is a warm heart. I am confident, grounded and reliable when it comes to working with animals and pride myself on creating positive interactions and ensuring that owner's know their animals are safe, well cared for and having fun. In my free time I volunteer at Sweet Farm, a non-profit animal sanctuary in Half Moon Bay. I am involved in animal care and participate in a variety of duties, tending to the needs of the many different rescue animals that call the farm home. Much of the work is autonomous and requires being able to complete tasks and interact with the animals without micro-management. Being a member of the Sweet Farm team has been extremely rewarding, as has working with the animals on a weekly basis. I have also been involved volunteering with other rescue organizations in the past, including a dog rescue sanctuary in India. As I have just relocated a few months ago to the Half Moon Bay area, and am building a new network of clients, my schedule is currently wide open and I am available and flexible to meet your needs. I am happy to pick up and drop off your dog from your home while ensuring you that I will respect your space and be mindful of that privilege. I am dedicated to the safety of your pet and making sure they are looked after attentively, bearing in mind whatever special instructions that may apply to each individual animal. My goal is to give your animal an energizing and enjoyable walk, while also keeping them safe and protected.