Hi! My name is Samantha, and I'm a UO grad student in my early 20s. I have been a dog owner and lover my entire life, and have about 10 years of experience as a primary caretaker for the 4-legged members of my family. My family has had German shepherds, pit mixes, border collies, and lab mixes. Because of this, I handle large, excitable, strong dogs with ease. Why I love dogsitting I love animals in general, and have been the proud owner of dogs, cats, snakes, and rats. I can't have dogs in my apartment, but I really miss being around them. I enjoy playing at home, taking walks. or visiting the dog park. I am comfortable working with dogs of any breed and size. Pet care experience I have experience working with dogs and other animals in a professional setting and difficult situations. I regularly dogsit for local friends, several of whom have large pitbulls and pit mixes. As a college student, I was employed at a national pet care chain, where I worked with dogs and cats, exotic birds and fish, and small animals and reptiles. In this position, I administered oral and topical medication to birds, fish, small animals, and reptiles, as well as feeding them, changing their bedding, and caring for them in any other way required. As a pet owner, I have administered oral medication to both dogs and cats. I stay calm under the pressure of a pet emergency, and I am able to keep a sick pet calm while they receive medical attention. I have gone through extensive obedience training with my own dogs, and I am capable of enforcing common household rules regarding pet behavior such as staying off the furniture and discouraging jumping.