Riley M.
Columbia, MD
Services
Riley can care for
Availability
I’m available for walks, check-ins, or drop-ins Monday through Friday from 6:00–7:15 AM or anytime after 3:30 PM. I also have open availability on weekends and can provide overnight care on weekends if needed. Whether you’re looking for a one-time visit or something more consistent, I’m happy to work around your schedule and your pet’s needs. Just let me know what works best for you — I’m here to help!
About Riley M.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
As a school counselor, I’m trained to be calm, attentive, and observant — skills that naturally carry over into caring for pets. I always take time to build trust with each animal at their own pace, ensuring they feel safe and secure in my presence. I follow all care instructions closely, stay alert to changes in behavior or needs, and keep communication open with pet parents every step of the way. Whether I’m out walking or checking in, safety is my top priority — from double-checking leashes and gates to making sure your pet feels calm and comforted while you’re away.
Information Riley M. would like to know about your pet
Before caring for your pet, I like to learn as much as I can to make sure I’m meeting their unique needs. It’s helpful to know: • Their daily routine and energy level • Any medical conditions, medications, or allergies • How they react to other animals, people, or loud noises • Their walking style (e.g., leash behavior, favorite routes) • Favorite toys, games, or ways to be comforted • Any fears, anxieties, or triggers I should be aware of • House rules you’d like me to follow (like furniture, treats, etc.) The more I know, the more I can make sure your pet feels safe, loved, and totally at ease while you’re away.
A typical day
Whether we’re heading out for a morning walk or winding down in the evening, I aim to make every visit fun, safe, and comforting for your pet. For pups who love to move, we’ll go on engaging walks with plenty of sniff breaks, play fetch if there’s a safe space, or explore new routes to keep things interesting. For more low-key pets, I’m happy to provide relaxing company, gentle petting, enrichment toys, and a calm presence they can trust. I always tailor each visit to your pet’s personality and energy level — whether they’re energetic, shy, cuddly, or curious. And of course, I’ll keep you updated with photos and notes so you know exactly how your pet is doin
Location
Columbia, MD
Counselor by day, Pet Pal by night
Pet care experience
As a full-time school counselor, I bring the same compassion, attentiveness, and calm presence I use with students into every pet care visit. I’m incredibly patient, dependable, and detail-oriented — qualities that pet parents value when trusting someone with their furry family members. What truly sets me apart is my ability to build quick connections and create a sense of safety — whether it’s helping anxious students or shy pups. You can count on me to treat your pet with kindness, respect, and love as if they were my own. I also understand busy schedules and will always communicate clearly, follow your pet’s routine closely, and provide updates so you feel confident and at ease.
Cat care experience
Riley also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Reviews
Riley is reliable and professional. Easy to communicate with and respded quickly. She was patient in forming a bond with my dog and kept her safe when on walks.
Riley is a great communicator and patient dog walker. She does an excellent job of keeping Storm 🐶 safe and tired after her walks.
Riley is caring, respectful of pets and spaces, and is a great communicator. She watched my dog and cat and I felt 100% comfortable with her and look forward to using her again.
About Riley M.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
As a school counselor, I’m trained to be calm, attentive, and observant — skills that naturally carry over into caring for pets. I always take time to build trust with each animal at their own pace, ensuring they feel safe and secure in my presence. I follow all care instructions closely, stay alert to changes in behavior or needs, and keep communication open with pet parents every step of the way. Whether I’m out walking or checking in, safety is my top priority — from double-checking leashes and gates to making sure your pet feels calm and comforted while you’re away.
Information Riley M. would like to know about your pet
Before caring for your pet, I like to learn as much as I can to make sure I’m meeting their unique needs. It’s helpful to know: • Their daily routine and energy level • Any medical conditions, medications, or allergies • How they react to other animals, people, or loud noises • Their walking style (e.g., leash behavior, favorite routes) • Favorite toys, games, or ways to be comforted • Any fears, anxieties, or triggers I should be aware of • House rules you’d like me to follow (like furniture, treats, etc.) The more I know, the more I can make sure your pet feels safe, loved, and totally at ease while you’re away.
A typical day
Whether we’re heading out for a morning walk or winding down in the evening, I aim to make every visit fun, safe, and comforting for your pet. For pups who love to move, we’ll go on engaging walks with plenty of sniff breaks, play fetch if there’s a safe space, or explore new routes to keep things interesting. For more low-key pets, I’m happy to provide relaxing company, gentle petting, enrichment toys, and a calm presence they can trust. I always tailor each visit to your pet’s personality and energy level — whether they’re energetic, shy, cuddly, or curious. And of course, I’ll keep you updated with photos and notes so you know exactly how your pet is doin
Riley M.
Columbia, MD