I realized I not only liked but ADORED dogs after getting my first dog - a golden retriever who was a rescue. She was an anxious gal due to her prior living environment. Showing her patience, and kindness at every turn was essential in helping her feel safe. She lived a wonderful life with me for 9 additional years. I am an active walker and love hiking. I have taken care of senior dogs, dogs with physical disabilities, and young dogs with loads of energy. Our home is a welcoming space where your dog will be active (if that's what they need), safe, and made to feel at home when you are away. Whenever I left my dog with someone, it was really important to me that the person was kind, and caring, knew what to do in an emergency, and showed patience with my pup - you can expect these traits from me. CATS, CATS, CATS, I also adore cats, but cannot have them in my home due to my partner's allergies, but would be happy to drop into your home and care for your cat(s) while you are on holiday! I grew up with a fabulous, spirited cat for 21 years and was his primary caregiver. I work outside of the home for part of the day throughout the week but am not gone for the entire day. I am often around on weekends and available for boarding or walks and drop-ins. I do not have any pets at home. We have a fenced-in yard except for the entrance to the yard, which can be blocked off. If you require your dog to sleep in a crate or be crated when we are outside of the home for short periods of time, we can accommodate this. I typically care for dogs who sleep on their own dog beds and have free reign to wander the house. If you require your dog to have certain limits with respect to food, rest, and or exercise, these limits will be respected with care.