I work part to full time as a Physical Therapist 10 minutes away from home and I frequently come home mid day to check on my guests between my 10 AM to 4:30 ish shift.. For years, I have informally boarded a variety of dogs for friends and family in our animal friendly home. We allow our 2 dogs (rat terrier and Pug) and our dog guests free run of the house and good sized yard via a dog door which accommodates up to large size dogs. While here, your dog(s) will be part of our family pack. I've been known to spoil our guests up to the preference of their owners (food, belly rubs, massages, brushing, sleeping in our bed etc). My husband and I are in healthcare so we can deal with medication administration, minor wound and post op care and some other special needs such as low vision, picky eating, occasional potty accidents and paraplegic and incontinent elder dogs. We have a secure backyard with optional dog paddock if a guest needs separation for a successful visit. Also, if your pooch is trained to relieve his/herself only on walks or on pads we can accommodate. About this sitter: I am a life time animal lover dating back to my first hamster pets when I was less than 6 years old. I have enjoyed time with hamsters, rats, guinea pigs,cats, dogs, farm animals and horses to date. I respect the "sort of" non verbal communication of animals and our human responsibility to care for them. I find pure joy in being surrounded by critters that need care. This caregiver calling extended to my personal and professional life with humans. My chosen profession is Physical Therapy and I have practiced since 1985. My husband of almost 23 years is also in healthcare. I have raised 2 successful children and we remain close. Informally, I have cared for the dogs of friends and family for the last 11 years. Now that we are near "empty nesters", I am craving more dog company. Why I love dog sitting I have been an animal lover all my life and I have had at least one dog of my own since I was 10 years old. All of our critters have been adopted from rescue organizations or families who need to find another home for their pet. I have owned or hosted a variety of breeds including "melting pot mixes",Pugs, toy Yorkies, Boxers, rat terriers, Labs, Beagles. I love them all. About my yard We have a large securely fenced yard. There is a double fencing system in the side yard to prevent breakouts while we are dealing with trash or garage activities. We also have a secure inner paddock if we need to separate dogs. We have not had to use it since our we lost our beloved plant eating Boxers. We have a good amount of grass and trees and rough terrain for exploring.