Toni S.
Upper West Side, NY
Passionate and hardworking walker
Pet care experience
I was raised in a home with a cocker spaniel and have owned a rescued blue nose pitbull. Monday-Friday, I am available before 8 AM and after 4:30 PM. Saturday and Sunday, I am available anytime after 8 AM until 9 PM. When talking to a dog, I am firm on my commands. For example, I say "sit" with an authoritative voice. Dogs are immediately rewarded (if the owner approvers) with praise and maybe a treat for obeying. When I am pet sitting, I greet the dog after I've put my coat away and emptied my hands of objects I may be carrying. Depending on the guidelines left by the owner, I may just take the dog out to use the restroom, feed them, and then take on a longer walk. Pet sitting is to ensure my time is focused on the dog so I will play and cuddle the dog a lot. When I'm walking a dog, because it is a city, I prefer for the dog to stay as close to me as possible on all side walks and crosswalks to ensure the safety of the pet. The leash may be extended a bit further if we are in a park.
Reviews
Toni was a life saver for me in grad school. Whenever I had to leave town, whether for the weekend or several weeks, she graciously looked after my cat, Suna. She was attentive to her preferences, sent me pictures of her, spent quality time playing with her, and always kept the litter box clean (maybe even cleaner than I keep it myself!) She is responsible and trustworthy, and I never worried about the safety of my home or my kitty when I was away. She was also great about gathering mail and keeping houseplants well-cared for. I also know of her love for dogs, and how much she enjoys being able to spend time outside with an energetic canine companion. I highly recommend her.
About Toni S.
Skills
Information Toni S. would like to know about your pet
Before sitting I would like to know: if the dog is a difficult walker, do they chew on objects they aren't supposed to, does the dog have anxiety, does the dog "forget" training when the owner is away (ie do they use the bathroom in the house), does the dog have a nervous stomach. I would like to know as much as possible about the dog to experience minimal surprises.
A typical day
Tug of war with the dog! Lots of playing with the dogs toys. Walks tend to vary on the neighborhood. I do my best to keep the dog moving for 30 minutes and may incorporate a slight jog depending on the dogs ability to run.
Services
Toni can watch in your home
About Toni S.
Skills
Information Toni S. would like to know about your pet
Before sitting I would like to know: if the dog is a difficult walker, do they chew on objects they aren't supposed to, does the dog have anxiety, does the dog "forget" training when the owner is away (ie do they use the bathroom in the house), does the dog have a nervous stomach. I would like to know as much as possible about the dog to experience minimal surprises.
A typical day
Tug of war with the dog! Lots of playing with the dogs toys. Walks tend to vary on the neighborhood. I do my best to keep the dog moving for 30 minutes and may incorporate a slight jog depending on the dogs ability to run.
Location
New York, NY
Toni S.
Upper West Side, NY