Sarah M.
Gloucester, VA
Sarah M. has Star Sitter status
The Star Sitter program highlights responsive sitters who deliver highly rated care and have a history of listing accurate availability and preferences, making it easier for pet parents to find the best care for their pets.
animal lover & pre-vet student!
Pet care experience
I have been surrounded by dogs my entire life and have been pet sitting for over 2 years! As a child, I helped feed, bathe, clean up after and play with puppies my entire childhood. My love for dogs and animals grew with me and I began volunteering at animal shelters at 14 and working at dog care facilities at 16. I have been working in the pet care industry for 6 years and have been trained on dog behavior, handling and nutrition. I am currently in my last semester of undergrad and am interning at a veterinary clinic. I am experienced with dogs of all ages and understand the importance of training regimes for younger pups. I am also very familiar with senior care, including physical assistance and medication administration. I have also done personal pet sitting for as many as 6 dogs in one household and have references if needed! I value honesty, communication and transparency with pet parents. Please reach out if you would like to learn more! Currently, my day-to-day schedule is constantly changing between pet sitting and classes on certain weekdays. I have been extremely successful in working around others’ schedules with my own, message me to check if I’m able to work with your timeframe! I am experienced and knowledgeable on dog handling and focus on dog safety and comfort. All dogs being walked outside of their home must have a harness or gentle leader, I will not walk dogs with just a collar unless they are unable to wear a harness or gentle leader due to age or health and understand that this is a possibility for many dogs. I make sure a dog feels comfortable and safe with me both in their home and before going out for a walk to guarantee the best safety for both of us. I will not take a dog off-leash outside of their home unless we are in a fully fenced in area the dog cannot escape from. All dogs being walked by me must be familiar with being leash-walked and cannot be leash aggressive.
Reviews
Sarah was a great sitter for our pup while we were away! She’s very punctual and thorough with updates which we appreciated very much.
Sarah was so sweet and took great care of my babies. This was my first time leaving them and I felt so comfortable leaving them in her hands. Lots of cute pictures and updates. Thanks again Sarah, I will be using you again!!
Sarah has watched my dog and cat multiple times, and once again, she was amazing with them! My dog is a rescue and has severe anxiety, and she does a wonderful job with him. He trusts her and likes her, and she goes out of her way to gain his trust. I highly recommend Sarah!
Sarah was great, communicated clearly, and judging by the pictures the dogs certainly enjoyed having her visit. They don't do that for everyone. Even the one that doesn't like to have his picture taken cooperated with her. We will definitely be repeat customers for her.
About Sarah M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I do not let dogs off-leash in non-fenced in areas or in spaces with dogs unfamiliar to yours. I require all dogs and cats to be updated on their rabies vaccines. I will not take an unaltered dog outside of his or her home, this is for the safety and wellbeing of your dog. If your dog struggles with behavioral issues and has a history of aggression, please include this in your message so I can help you decide the best options for your pet when it comes to meeting a new pet sitter. If your dog struggles with severe anxiety (this is very common!) please include some of the best anxiety-reducing practices for your dog (ex. favorite blanket, hiding spots, calming treats / jackets) in their care instructions so that they can have the best time possible without their favorite human.
Information Sarah M. would like to know about your pet
Please let me know if your dog has behavioral conditions such as anxiety and aggression towards humans or other animals. Please let me know of any medications, medical conditions and restricted diets prior to any long term stays. I will not turn a dog away for these reasons, I want to be informed on your dogs health so that I may provide the best care for them possible.
A typical day
I always try to cater to the dog and their wants and needs. Based on activity level, age and size of the dog, I aim to provide a healthy amount of exercise and stimulation into my visits to leave your dog happy.
Services
Sarah can watch in your home
Availability
Currently open every day, I just require a 2-3 day heads up! Hours of service include 7am-8pm weekly. House sitting visits include 24 hour care.
About Sarah M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I do not let dogs off-leash in non-fenced in areas or in spaces with dogs unfamiliar to yours. I require all dogs and cats to be updated on their rabies vaccines. I will not take an unaltered dog outside of his or her home, this is for the safety and wellbeing of your dog. If your dog struggles with behavioral issues and has a history of aggression, please include this in your message so I can help you decide the best options for your pet when it comes to meeting a new pet sitter. If your dog struggles with severe anxiety (this is very common!) please include some of the best anxiety-reducing practices for your dog (ex. favorite blanket, hiding spots, calming treats / jackets) in their care instructions so that they can have the best time possible without their favorite human.
Information Sarah M. would like to know about your pet
Please let me know if your dog has behavioral conditions such as anxiety and aggression towards humans or other animals. Please let me know of any medications, medical conditions and restricted diets prior to any long term stays. I will not turn a dog away for these reasons, I want to be informed on your dogs health so that I may provide the best care for them possible.
A typical day
I always try to cater to the dog and their wants and needs. Based on activity level, age and size of the dog, I aim to provide a healthy amount of exercise and stimulation into my visits to leave your dog happy.
Location
Gloucester, VA
Pets
Sarah M.
Gloucester, VA