Shannon W.
Shannon W.
Contact for Drop-In Visits
$49 total per visit
Highlights
Pet care experience
Trainer-Level Care, Every Stay
Transitioning from a High School Science Teacher to a Professional Dog Trainer was the best decision I’ve ever made! My life has always revolved around animals—I don’t have children of my own, and I’ve found that I often prefer the company of dogs especially after a long day in the high school classroom. My background is rooted in Science. I hold a Master’s Degree in Zoology and spent many years teaching Veterinary Science, which gives me a unique, high-level understanding of animal anatomy, physiology, and behavior. I recently “retired” from the traditional classroom (yes, that’s me with Bill Nye the Science Guy in my photo!) to focus entirely on my passion for dog training and specialized care. My expertise is as deep as it is diverse. I served as a Veterinary Assistant in college and am deeply comfortable with medical needs and complex care routines. My history with animals ranges from being the West Wind Horse Barn Caretaker in Los Altos Hills (where I learned they snore just like pups!) to designing and managing an award-winning urban farm. Because I am a Certified Dog Trainer specializing in positive reinforcement, I believe every long-term stay is an opportunity for progress. For all bookings of 7 days or longer, I include a Complimentary Training Program at no extra cost. This will include a professional assessment during the Meet and Greet, a daily report card with a summary of your pup’s progress during my stay, a Customized Training Program when you return and a 30 minute transition lesson so you can maintain the results we achieved. My goal is to provide a seamless, stress-free experience for you and a fun, structured, and safe environment for your pup.While you are away, your dog isn't just "watched"—they are actively enriched and managed with professional expertise. I treat your home with the same respect I treat your dog—leaving it clean, secure, and exactly as you left it. Happy dogs are my happy place—I can’t wait to meet yours!
Cat care experience
Shannon also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Safety, trust & environment
I recognize that every dog is an individual with unique psychological and physical needs. Whether I am caring for a high-energy puppy or a senior dog who thrives on a predictable routine, I specialize in maintaining a structured environment that minimizes stress. My background as a Certified Trainer and my Master’s in Zoology allow me to provide a level of specialized care that ensures your pet is safe, understood, and nurtured. Trust is built through transparency and communication. You can expect daily updates from me, including detailed messages and "picture-frame worthy" photos of your pet. My goal is to capture them "smiling" and living their best life so you can relax knowing they are in expert hands. I maintain a strict "Safety-First" protocol, which includes secure leash handling, double-checking gates/locks, and following all medical and dietary instructions to the letter.
Ratings and reviews
Leaving your pets to go on a trip can be stressful, even more so if they have health conditions. However, rest assured that with Shannon, your pets will be in great hands. She was absolutely wonderful with out kitties! Not only she carefully followed all our instructions, she truly went above and beyond to keep our kitties comfortable and happy. Throughout our time away, she was in regular contact with us providing thoughtful updates and observations about our kitties, and of course lots of photos. She was also flexible with her time, for example when one of our kitties required extra attention. It was a great relief to know that our kitties are well taken care of, so we could enjoy our trip. I highly recommend Shannon and would not hesitate to hire her to look after our pets in the future.
Leaving your pets to go on a trip can be stressful, even more so if they have health conditions. However, rest assured that your pets will be in great hands with Shannon. She was absolutely wonderful with our kitties. Not only she carefully followed all of our instructions, including administering medications and providing extra attention to some of our kitties when needed. She truly went above and beyond to keep our kitties comfortable, happy and healthy. Throughout our time away, Shannon was in regular contact with us and provided thoughtful updates and observations about our kitties. We could enjoy our trip knowing that someone really cared about our pets.
Shannon did a great job caring for my senior Yorkie, managing her medications, and providing regular detailed updates about how she was doing. She also offered some helpful training and tips! I look forward to having her stay with Olive again in the future.
Shannon took great care of Jack as always!
Shannon was right on time and Yogi seemed very happy on his walk!! Would highly recommend her! I only trust a few people with my Yogi!!
This was my 2nd time booking with Shannon and she took care of my little pup for over a week. Super nervous to leave him for such a long time and it was my first time leaving him with someone other than family. Shannon makes the process stress free! She always texts and sends photos. You can tell she really cares for the dogs she watches. She is a hardworking woman and I really admire her. She makes me feel like my dog is in safe, wonderful, caring hands. Started the trip stressed and worried but it melted away thanks to her! Will definitely be re-booking!!!!
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
Pet care is my full-time profession, not a side job. Because I do not have a traditional 9-to-5, your dog becomes my primary focus. My schedule is designed around your dog, ensuring they receive consistent attention, professional supervision, and specialized care throughout the day. A Typical Day in My Care: Morning: Early morning potty relief followed by a structured walk or neighborhood exploration. Mid-Day: This is our "Brain Games" and Training window. I utilize enrichment toys (Kongs, puzzles) and work on the custom training goals we discussed. Afternoon: Physical exercise! Depending on your dog's needs, this might be a trip to a quiet trail, a beach visit, or focused play in a secure area. Evening: Wind-down time. I focus on relaxation and "settle" behaviors to ensure your pup is calm and comfortable for the night. I am excellent at following complex medical or dietary directions and maintaining your dog's specific home routine. You can expect frequent photo updates and a detailed digital report card every evening so you never have to wonder how your furry child is doing. My goal is to provide a "home away from home" experience where your dog is safe, stimulated, and deeply loved.