Any time I am looking for a dog sitter/dog walker, I insure that the carer understands safety and handling protocols as well as proper implementation to gain the most safe and secure outcome for my pet. One of the things I look for in a carer/handler, is that the carer holds experience in handling reactive or special needs dogs. This has nothing to do with my dog, but everything to do with the handlers ability to insure safety, boundaries and distance with strange dogs, kids and other pet owners. Because Rissa has a lot of experience handling difficult breeds, she is more likely to speak up on behalf of my dog more than handlers who have never had to do this. This is a skill taught by the handler and not the dog. When my dog is in Rissa's care, I understand that my dog is not only safe, but protected. Handling of reactive and special needs dogs takes lots of knowledge and skill to insure the up most safety. This includes proper leash handling skills, manipulation of movement, knowledge on redirection, threshold in dogs and keeping dog greetings safe selective. There are too many horror stories of carers and handlers not taking appropriate action on behalf of the dog which can result in dogs slipping out of their leashes (misuse of equipment), going missing (misuse of manipulation of movement) and getting stolen/ injured (misuse of unethical safety and handling protocols). Because of these stories, I find it almost impossible to trust my baby with anyone... but on that list of three people in the world I would trust my dog with, Rissa is one. I have lots of experience with dogs and I can easily say, I would highly recommend her. To her, a walk, a play date and a sleep over are not done within a humane framework. Her practice is done with delicacy, as she truly does understand that every interaction with a dog, is a life lesson to be taught.

Riss has a love for animals that is viable in her smile . It’s hard to explain the connection she has always had with dogs. I would trust her fully to look after my pet. She is responsible and caring and the animal would become another member of her family.