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Sarah F.

Portland, OR

5.0 out of 5 stars
•13 reviews
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Professional Big Dog Sitter

Pet care experience

If your dog is a lazy couch potato who needs loads of cuddles, that's my jam. If your pup is high energy and needs intense play and running, I have a pet liner for my SUV and a canny sense for great big grassy dog parks to run and play until we're both exhausted. If your older frosted face needs extra potty breaks or slower walks, we’ll take a stroll and take our time outside. Even for the mature dogs who could use a literal pick-me-up because they need to be carried outside and over the threshold or down the stairs, it’s nothing new to me as a lifetime dog owner. LOCATION I'm currently available to house/dog sit clients located in or around the following cities: • Portland, OR • Vancouver, WA • Bend, OR AVAILABILITY I’m currently available for house-sitting, drop-in visits while you’re away, and dog walking. SENIOR/ANXIOUS DOGS With my freelancing schedule, I’m able to stay with dogs who need frequent potty breaks or who struggle with separation anxiety. Either way, I’ll be their constant companion. If needed, I can stay with your dog(s) all day. The only time I’d leave and not take your dog(s) with me is for the occasional grocery store run during longer house-sitting stays. ABOUT ME I work remotely as a small business owner. I have my own handmade eCommerce store. I also support other online business owners with web design, photography, copywriting, and more. This allows me to work from anywhere and have a flexible schedule. I currently have no pets of my own which frees me up to care for other people's homes and animals. Your dog(s) will be with me as I’m either working from your home or on an outdoor adventure, a long walk, or a play date as I take a break from the freelancing grind. ABOUT YOU Safety and trust are really important to you. Knowing that your dog(s) are well looked after and your home is respected and safe in your absence are your priorities. While housesitting in Southern California, I became accustomed to working with high-profile and celebrity individuals and families. To ensure privacy and trust, I never invite anyone to my clients' homes. WHO I WORK WITH: From purebreds to mixes, from young pups to senior dogs. As long as your dog is well-behaved (doesn’t show aggression towards people), is potty trained to go outside (I don’t do pee pads), I’m happy to take care of your dog(s). My professional background, prior to freelancing, was a career as an executive assistant. I worked closely and managed operations for business owners and CEOs in the financial industry and high-end residential construction industry while I lived and worked in La Jolla, California, for nearly 10 years. Prior to that, I worked as a communications and software trainer in customer service for Amazon(dot)com to help establish multiple US and international call centers. Due to my professional background, I have high standards for communication, cleanliness, being on time, and organization. I prefer to work with pet owners who want that same level of professionalism, reliability, and a high-quality experience. AT MY HOME (Not available at this time.) For boarding your dog(s) at my place - whatever habits and lifestyle you'd like your dog to maintain while you're gone, I'm happy to accommodate. Please let me know what you prefer. If your dogs are allowed on couches and sleep with you in your bed, that's totally okay. If your dog(s) need to be kenneled at night and human furniture is off-limits, please let me know so I don't break the house rules. At this time, I don't have crates, so you'll need to provide your own for overnight stays. HISTORY/EXPERIENCE My family bred our beloved Golden Retriever who was a skilled hunter and companion to my three brothers and me during our childhood in the Pacific Northwest. When I was old enough to get my own place I adopted a 7-week-old puppy. She was a Labrador and Black and Tan coonhound mix, who I had and cared for during her full 17 years. A month after she passed, I adopted my first rescue, Nell. She was a pit bull mix who spent most of her life in a chicken coup because she was reactive and aggressive with other dogs. To look after her and give her the attention she never had was one of the greatest blessings in my life. She passed away in May of 2021 due to a heart condition. I have 30+ years of experience with newborn puppies to senior dogs, from lap companions to strong, high-maintenance, and special needs senior dogs. My lifetime experience with animals ranges from basic obedience and potty training, to administering shots and medications, catering to animals with medical conditions, and exercising high-energy dogs. I'm the get-on-the-floor-to-say-hi kind of dog lover. Pups are family to me and being a part of family life is all I know when it comes to pets. As a small business owner, I've been able to raise funds to aid in the rescue relief following Hurricane Harvey in 2017. I've collaborated with a southern California senior dog rescue to support and aid in the financial relief of medical care and attention. If you’re looking for someone who truly cares for your dog, gives them loads of attention with snuggles and/or long walks and playtime, then I'll be your dog's second favorite person. IMPORTANT Allowing a stranger to have access to your house while you're away raises questions and concerns for most people. You're looking for someone who you can trust with your beloved pet(s) and your home too - because of this, safety and peace of mind are highly important. Just like you, I value the same safety and peace of mind when coming to an unfamiliar home. I prefer to work with individuals and families who provide ample pictures of their dog(s), a personal profile picture, and who are willing to set up a meet-and-greet ahead of time. PS. Please note that for my own safety and peace of mind, I decline vague messages, incomplete profiles, and profiles that don't provide clear photos.

Reviews

Mary W.
House Sitting • Oct 04, 2023
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Sarah is the absolute BEST. Personable: competent. Communicative. Keeps you informed. You can tell she loves animals. My dogs are high maintenance…pills, medical issues, eating, etc and Sarah didn’t blink an eye. She developed a fast bond with them and I didn’t worry at all while I was gone. Anyone who can book with Sarah is so lucky! She’s absolutely extraordinary. And to top it off, she left the house spotless.

Lauren H.
House Sitting • Oct 16, 2022
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Sarah was absolutely wonderful! Before booking, she was more than willing to meet us in person to make sure it was the right fit for us and Sandy. She was very communicative and gave us daily updates with photos and videos while we were on vacation - she kept to our routine, took her on nice long walks and played with her! During our trip, when our pup was anxious with us being gone, she went above and beyond to make sure Sandy was taken care of and we were rest assured knowing she was in great hands. Sarah also made sure we came to a clean house, which was more than expected. Don’t hesitate to book her!!

Molly Z.
House Sitting • Oct 08, 2022
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Sarah went above and beyond while house sitting and watching our two beloved pups! She provided daily (or more) updates, was quick to respond, and happily came over TWICE before we booked so our dogs could meet her and get a little more comfortable with her. She took excellent care of our home as well, including watering the plants, bringing in mail and packages, and even washing the sheets she slept on and putting them back on the bed. We returned to a clean, well-cared-for house and dogs. Highly recommend!

Katherine D.
House Sitting • May 15, 2022
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Sarah was so wonderful with our dogs, alerted us to some behavioral issues that were coming up in such a helpful way! We were so grateful to have such a gentle and attentive person looking after them, and also such a thoughtful house guest! She’s a gem.

About Sarah F.

Communication

3 repeat pet parents
Usually responds in within a few days
70% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

36 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
First aid/CPR
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

SAFETY, TRUST & ENVIRONMENT: I don’t take it lightly that you, as a client, are looking for someone to care for your pet, and stay at your home in your absence. Trust and reliability are just as important as the skills it takes to look after and care for your pet(s) while you’re away. I love dogs and their happy-go-nature, and I also know safety, trust, and professionalism are important when it comes to caring for your pet and your home. I don't take any chances. Safety is my priority when it comes to caring for all animals. The risks are never worth the potential consequences. When outside of the home, either on walks or driving to a dog park, your dog will always be leashed until we’re in a designated dog area. My SUV is set up so that your dog(s) will sit comfortably on a protective seat cover that's soft and padded - creating a safe and separate space in the backseat as I take them to the dog park, a pre-scheduled vet appointment, or running errands with me to places they're allowed to enter. AT MY HOME: (Service unavailable. I'm not boarding at this time.) I've developed many dog-owner traits over the years and have created habits that ensure your pet will be safe and out of harm's way. I'm neat and tidy and never keep food or dirty dishes out on the counter. I keep all cleaning supplies, supplements, and medications stored and inaccessible to pets and animals. My trash cans either have lids or are put away. I do not use or keep any insect or rat poisons out. Before opening the front door, I always make sure dogs are leashed and check the surroundings to ensure no other dogs or distractions will interfere with our walk. If you have any additional requests like muzzling, training leads, particular commands, or treat preferences (or no treats), please let me know what they are. I'm happy to accommodate. While at your home the same standards are followed. Your dog(s) will not be left unattended in the backyard at any point in time. Any guidelines you’ve set for nighttime kenneling or when the dog is left alone will be followed. All doors and windows will be closed and locked whenever I leave. HOUSE SITTING MEET & GREETS: Please note that last-minute bookings don’t work for me. For safety and peace of mind, for both you and I, I prefer to meet at a minimum of a few days (preferably a week prior) to the dates you need a house sitter. This allows for ample time for you to find a house sitter should I not be a good fit.

Information Sarah F. would like to know about your pet

I'm comfortable and experienced handling dogs who show aggression towards other dogs. If your dog shows signs of aggression towards people, unfortunately, I'm not your Rover match. Please disclose other care details such as any special needs, including but not limited to medications, physical limitations, allergies, etc. Each dog is different and I'm happy to accommodate his or her habits and your own preferences. Thank you so much for viewing my profile! Please reach out with any questions.

A typical day

DOG WALKING APPOINTMENTS: Your dog is likely familiar with his/her own neighborhood or the local park. So a stroll around the ol' familiar, a game of fetch or tug-of-war, lots of pets, and a positive experience captured in pictures and videos will be exactly what your dog receives. DROP-INS: Have a backyard where your dog prefers to do their business? That makes it easy! Your dog will be well-loved and cared for during our time together. And don't worry about having to clean up an extra mess, your dog's business will be picked up and tossed away - making one less thing for you to do. Your pup(s) will have playtime to expend energy or simply cuddles if they're more low-key in energy. HOUSESITTING/BOARDING: In addition to the above, I'm all about experience and adventures with dogs that I really get to know. If your dog loves the water, I won't shy away from a dog-safe beach to get a bit of water in the hair and sand in the paws. And of course, mellow walks around the grassy neighborhood are regularly taken for overnight stays. Have a shy or senior dog? A slow stroll is always good for the soul too. Is your pup high-energy and needs to burn it off daily? I love a mid-day break to stretch my legs, get some sunshine, and reset my mind before getting back to work. Your fur-babe will take to the outdoors right along with me- always on a leash, and me always outfitted with waste bags. If your dog is of the lazy sorts, then naps in the sun are welcomed as I sit nearby working on my laptop. I cater to your dog's preferences and needs. IMPORTANT: Please note that for peace of mind (for both you and me) I require a scheduled Meet & Greet prior to house sitting. I know that having someone look after your family's pet(s) inside your home requires trust. This goes both ways for any Rover sitter (including me). Please include as much detail as you're comfortable with, including pictures and info about you and your pet(s) in your Rover profile.

Services

House Sitting
in your home
$150per night
Drop-In Visits
visits in your home
$35per visit
Dog Walking
in your neighborhood
$25per walk

Sarah can watch in your home

Cats
0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs

Availability

SCHEDULE: I own two online businesses that allow me to work from anywhere. I'm a jewelry designer and have successfully run my own e-commerce brand remotely for over 10 years. I also freelance as a brand strategist, designer, and copywriter for other online brands and business owners. I work remotely while traveling throughout the Western half of the United States, exploring beautiful outdoor spaces and visiting friends and family - this means my schedule and location are flexible, and I’m able to work from your home. If staying with your pet all day is what you’d prefer, I will absolutely accommodate. The only exception would be for those who’ve booked longer overnight stays and I’d need to restock groceries.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Calendar last updated 6 days ago
House Sitting Cancellation Policy:

About Sarah F.

Communication

3 repeat pet parents
Usually responds in within a few days
70% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

36 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
First aid/CPR
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

SAFETY, TRUST & ENVIRONMENT: I don’t take it lightly that you, as a client, are looking for someone to care for your pet, and stay at your home in your absence. Trust and reliability are just as important as the skills it takes to look after and care for your pet(s) while you’re away. I love dogs and their happy-go-nature, and I also know safety, trust, and professionalism are important when it comes to caring for your pet and your home. I don't take any chances. Safety is my priority when it comes to caring for all animals. The risks are never worth the potential consequences. When outside of the home, either on walks or driving to a dog park, your dog will always be leashed until we’re in a designated dog area. My SUV is set up so that your dog(s) will sit comfortably on a protective seat cover that's soft and padded - creating a safe and separate space in the backseat as I take them to the dog park, a pre-scheduled vet appointment, or running errands with me to places they're allowed to enter. AT MY HOME: (Service unavailable. I'm not boarding at this time.) I've developed many dog-owner traits over the years and have created habits that ensure your pet will be safe and out of harm's way. I'm neat and tidy and never keep food or dirty dishes out on the counter. I keep all cleaning supplies, supplements, and medications stored and inaccessible to pets and animals. My trash cans either have lids or are put away. I do not use or keep any insect or rat poisons out. Before opening the front door, I always make sure dogs are leashed and check the surroundings to ensure no other dogs or distractions will interfere with our walk. If you have any additional requests like muzzling, training leads, particular commands, or treat preferences (or no treats), please let me know what they are. I'm happy to accommodate. While at your home the same standards are followed. Your dog(s) will not be left unattended in the backyard at any point in time. Any guidelines you’ve set for nighttime kenneling or when the dog is left alone will be followed. All doors and windows will be closed and locked whenever I leave. HOUSE SITTING MEET & GREETS: Please note that last-minute bookings don’t work for me. For safety and peace of mind, for both you and I, I prefer to meet at a minimum of a few days (preferably a week prior) to the dates you need a house sitter. This allows for ample time for you to find a house sitter should I not be a good fit.

Information Sarah F. would like to know about your pet

I'm comfortable and experienced handling dogs who show aggression towards other dogs. If your dog shows signs of aggression towards people, unfortunately, I'm not your Rover match. Please disclose other care details such as any special needs, including but not limited to medications, physical limitations, allergies, etc. Each dog is different and I'm happy to accommodate his or her habits and your own preferences. Thank you so much for viewing my profile! Please reach out with any questions.

A typical day

DOG WALKING APPOINTMENTS: Your dog is likely familiar with his/her own neighborhood or the local park. So a stroll around the ol' familiar, a game of fetch or tug-of-war, lots of pets, and a positive experience captured in pictures and videos will be exactly what your dog receives. DROP-INS: Have a backyard where your dog prefers to do their business? That makes it easy! Your dog will be well-loved and cared for during our time together. And don't worry about having to clean up an extra mess, your dog's business will be picked up and tossed away - making one less thing for you to do. Your pup(s) will have playtime to expend energy or simply cuddles if they're more low-key in energy. HOUSESITTING/BOARDING: In addition to the above, I'm all about experience and adventures with dogs that I really get to know. If your dog loves the water, I won't shy away from a dog-safe beach to get a bit of water in the hair and sand in the paws. And of course, mellow walks around the grassy neighborhood are regularly taken for overnight stays. Have a shy or senior dog? A slow stroll is always good for the soul too. Is your pup high-energy and needs to burn it off daily? I love a mid-day break to stretch my legs, get some sunshine, and reset my mind before getting back to work. Your fur-babe will take to the outdoors right along with me- always on a leash, and me always outfitted with waste bags. If your dog is of the lazy sorts, then naps in the sun are welcomed as I sit nearby working on my laptop. I cater to your dog's preferences and needs. IMPORTANT: Please note that for peace of mind (for both you and me) I require a scheduled Meet & Greet prior to house sitting. I know that having someone look after your family's pet(s) inside your home requires trust. This goes both ways for any Rover sitter (including me). Please include as much detail as you're comfortable with, including pictures and info about you and your pet(s) in your Rover profile.

Location

Portland, OR

Sarah F.'s Neighborhood
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Sarah F.

Portland, OR

5.0 out of 5 stars
•13 reviews