Your pet will be with me, at my side, the entire time I'm with them: 24/7 loving human interaction! I rarely run errands when caring for animals and plan for their arrival beforehand. Your pet is treated like they are my new best friend (because they are!). I talk to them, watch them for signs that tell me of their needs, and ensure they are well loved. Safety is also top-of-mind when caring for your pet. I take into account your exact directions for your pet and implement them -- you know your pet best! I started sitting with animals purely out of love; the need to cuddle up and have a buddy. My husband and I agreed to never own pets so that we could travel, and my two children are away at school. Taking care of other people's furry loved ones really fills my heart. My days are about enjoying the outdoors or running my tea & gift shop in White Salmon Wed-Sat (a very low key place) while freelancing as a copywriter and editor. This allows me a lot of freedom to care for pets, and it keeps me connected with the community. Being that I'm a small business owner, and current Secretary on the White Salmon Arts Council, a lot of people know me in town, and I am a community-focused business owner that desires to be responsible in all that I do. As an avid hiker/trail runner with a backyard that leads into open land, I am very responsible about keeping dogs safe and near. I can also ensure dogs are only taken to less wild city parks. There is a large back area at our shop for doggies that are less friendly to newcomers, and the park is only one block away. I put a “back soon” sign in my window and off we go for several walks (or a run if they can) a day. I'm also very knowledgeable about canine/feline physical issues and needs: ticks, onset of sickness, infections, at-home mending of wounds, administering medicine etc. I also live 10 minutes away from a pet hospital. Pups and Kitties with Different Needs: If your pet has special needs, I can easily accommodate them with patience and my prior experience with both physical and mental (brain injury) issues. Is your animal extra energetic? No problem. I’m energetic, too. Is your pet a bit shy and picky about humans? I’ve worked with them before, and my solution is always going for a walk (with dogs) first thing. It’s amazing how well this works. For cats, I simply sit on the floor and let them come to me. They’re curious and love their control. There's so much love to share with these sweet beings, and I'm here to help your pet feel as loved and understood as possible.