Do you need someone to care for your furry friends while you're away? Look no further! When you think of a true Animal Afficonado, I am exactly what you imagine. An animal enthusiast, a career trainer, a caregiver, or a friend to the furry; no matter how what you call it, animals have been my lifelong devotion and experience. I have specialized in dogs and horses most of my life; a successful A Level Hunter/Jumper trainer and business owner, I certainly do not lack the knowledge and experience regarding horses and farms! Unfortunately, due to several spinal surgeries (and the life of a horse trainer ☺️), I am no longer showing and riding as I once did. However, I have the knowledge and experience to ride, care for, handle, and medicate any equine friend you may need care for when you can't be there. I started my career with dogs breeding high-quality labs at a large, reputable breeder when I was 13. Since that time, I have worked with breeders of several breeds and have extensive experience in the breeding and whelping process. I have been dog-sitting since I was a young girl, as well as grooming, training, etc. You name it, I have done it. Over the years of working at barns and house/farm sitting, I have cared just about any animal you may have; there is a good chance I have owned one as well 😬 ...dogs, cats, snakes, horses, turtles, birds, lizards guinea pigs, fish, rabbits, just about all types of domestic fowl, cows, donkeys, goats, pigs you name it! While I was first growing my horse business, I supplemented my income by working for a dog walking company. While I genuinely appreciate the experience I gained from caring for all types of animals, I knew that if I ever did it again, it had to be the way I have always cared for animals that I had been responsible for and how I care for my own. The length and quality of visits, spending time with each customer learning about their specific pet as they are similar to our children, and each customer (both animal and human) deserves to get precisely the individual care that works best for them. There is a place for those businesses, but I knew how they must be run wouldn't work for me. Any animal that comes to my home, whether it be for the day, for months, for training, or for grooming while they are in my home, they are part of our family. They are treated no differently, and thus far this approach has worked well. While most of our pets have their individual quirks, some require special treatment, medication, etc. As long as I know about your “fur baby,” I can handle any situation, and on the off chance I do not feel as though my family home is the best situation for your pets, I will not hesitate to tell you that. I have fostered litters of puppies; I can administer medication regardless of administration method (oral, IM, subcutaneously, and IV.) I allow pets on my furniture, and most sleep in bed with my children or myself. However, if you prefer they not be allowed, that rule will be enforced. My unique “foster failure” is the perfect four-legged host and gets along with EVERY animal who she has met. Aspen loves to play, but loves her down time too. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with elderly pets, those with medical issues requiring special care and observation, and handicapped dogs. My “heart dog” was in a wheelchair for several years. Any issue that could come up, I am confident in handling it. I also do a lot of dog training and still ride and train horses on a smaller scale. I also can provide grooming for my cuddle buddies when they come to stay! I offer baths with blow dry, grooming, touch-up trims or complete cut-downs, oral care, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. When your pets come to stay with me, they become a part of our family. They're allowed on the furniture, and most even sleep in bed with my children or myself. Our visitors are only ever crated if that is a part of their life with you. I provide a fenced-in backyard and a great walking path, and I work from home, so your pets won't be left alone for long periods. Many of my clients decide to have me train their pets while they are here for their visit, or we set up a schedule after your return. So why choose me? Because I genuinely care about your pets and want to provide them with the top-notch, individualized care they deserve. I take the time to get to know each animal and their specific needs because they're not just pets - they're family. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you soon!