Lifelong experience (20+ years) with large dogs (75-175 pounds) and exotic birds. 10 years of experience with fish. 5 years of experience with reptiles and amphibians. I am a wildlife ecologist trained in animal biology and behavior. I am a dog lover and specifically love large dogs. I have had 7 dogs throughout my childhood and early adulthood (Scottish terrier, lab, collie, pit, chow chow, husky, great dane). I have helped 6 dogs through end of life care and am comfortable organanizing and administering medications and physical therapies. I also have a few years of personal experience petsitting for AKC show dogs (Newfoundlands). I do not currently have any dogs or cats in my rental home, so I shouldn't be a problem for pets who are uncomfortable with the scent of other animals. I have a blue and gold macaw who has been with me for over 20 years (but is currently living with my parents), and have also had an African grey parrot, so I am comfortable handling exotic birds of all sizes. My current pets are a pair of African cane toads that I am fostering for Michigan Tech during the COVID crises. I also have experience with turtles and tortoises, as well as axolotls, snakes, and lizards. I have ball python handling experience and am comfortable with large snakes. I can care for both freshwater and saltwater fish and maintain proper aquarium chemistry. I am less comfortable around cats and aggressive/excitable small dogs due to previous injuries, but this can usually be remedied by a simple meet and greet ahead of time to ensure your pet won't react poorly to me if you're not present.