I am a former High School Teacher turned Dog Sitter/Trainer. I love dogs and treat them as if they were my children. I don’t have any of my own and actually prefer dogs to child, especially after teaching high school for 17 years. I hope you agree, life is better with dogs. You may have run into me on a walk or two since I have a tendency to stop and admire dogs that cross my path, with the owners permission, of course. My slight obsession for 4 legged furry animals has turned into my passion! I recently “retired” from my full-time High School Science teaching job after 17 wonderful years (yes, that is Bill Nye, The Science Guy in my photo) to make dog sitting my passion and priority. After spending many years dogsitting I decided to become a positive reinforcement dog trainer. I have experience across the board with farm animals to spoiled and pampered pets. In college, I worked at a Veterinarian's office as an assistant which gave me knowledgeable experience and sparked my interest and love for animals. I was also a caretaker at a boarding Horse Barn in Los Altos Hills for 2 years. I lived on-site and shared a wall with a horse. One thing I learned during this worthwhile and adventurous experience is horses snore. Some dogs are built like horses and they also snore. I value the importance of animals and taught a veterinary science course to my high school students so I am aware of anatomy/physiology of animals as well as their needs and care. While teaching I enriched the education of my high schoolers by adding an award winning Urban Farm to our campus and making it a sustainable and nurturing learning environment. Having previous experience working as a vet assistant in college helped me pursue my love of animals. After completing my Masters Degree in Zoology and being around dogs my entire life, dog sitting seemed like the next logical and enjoyable step in life. After dog sitting for almost 10 years and seeing some unwanted behaviors in dogs I decided to become a dog trainer. If you have any behaviors that you would like me to work on please let me know. Originally from Michigan, I grew up on a farm raising chickens, pigs, horses, and growing veggies. My childhood dog was a Dalmatian named Chocolate chipped Cody. He was my best friend and running companion. For 2 years I called Westwind Horse Barn my home, where I was their live in caretaker. I learned that horses snore and kick in their sleep but make loyal and prestigious pets. I have no problem spoiling a dog. You might catch me throwing a mean chuck-it or sneaking an extra scoop of peanut butter in a kong. Overnight dog sitting is my specialty since I have the opportunity to give your dog my undivided attention in their own comfortable environment. I am also open to taking your pup(s) on field trips to the beach or extended hiking trips. I will base our adventure on your dog's personality and needs. Having lived in California for over 20 years I know many dog friendly beaches, restaurants, and trails so expect your playful pup to get exercise while socializing and adventuring. If your dog doesn’t mingle well with other canines that is ok too. We will avoid heavy dog traffic areas and get some quality time alone. My favorite local go-to spot is Fort Funston in San Francisco. I say it’s the beach where dogs outnumber people and I can see why. The beach environment offers so many opportunities for new smells and play with new furry friends. Looking forward to meeting you and your precious pet(s). Happy dogs make me happy.