Valerie K.
Dillon Beach, CA
Animals Are People Too
Pet care experience
If my husband calls me "dog girl" one more time... :) But seriously, what can I say? It's hard to argue with truth. Animals give life to me. Their care, comfort, and well being is one of my main concerns. Even while growing up, my friends "babysat" while I was the neighborhood pet sitter and I've never not had dogs and cats of my own. I've cared for other peoples animals from the time I was 10 years old, and enjoy it to the fullest. Whether walks, snuggles, TV time, or some training basics, I'm able to deliver whatever your pet needs. I spent several years in agility training (obstacle courses), Canine Good Citizen and therapy work with my Goldendoodle, Cozy. She's gone now, but the lessons she taught me, I carry in my heart and will last my lifetime. She is a big part of who I am today. I can pass on to you want I've learned, and while I'm not a dog "trainer", I am pretty solid at teaching the basics to pups. :) It gives us both something fun to do. No charge. ;) If your pup needs a play date during the day, my Golden Retriever Taffy is your gal! Chase is her favorite, and while she's a 65 pounder, she's very gentle with dogs of all sizes. I've been doubly blessed to provide support in water therapy for dogs with movement issues, and am a perfect choice to care for senior dogs and cats. Senior animals hold a very special place in my heart. Special needs, no problem. Raw food diet? Us too. No explanations needed. I'm a writer of music and children's books and run a small non profit. I work from home, and with our twins off to college am relatively flexible; eager to help you when and where I can. I think you find I am a reliable and competent choice for your pet care needs. I'm also prone to bring my guitar or play piano for anxious animals. It works! I look forward to meeting you and your fur family.
About Valerie K.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I have a shorter (4 ft) fenced yard (moderately skilled escape artists would have little problem finding their way out) but don't leave the dogs outside. Not even my own, unless we are all lounging on the deck. The fence is more to keep wildlife out than anything. One skunk too many. ;) In YOUR home, I would be the same way. Just as when my kids were little, I have to have eyes on them to be satisfied they are safe and not chewing anything harmful or off limits.
Information Valerie K. would like to know about your pet
To me, "Dog" is a breed, and it's the breed I prefer. Not all dogs like to be separated from their people. I do like to know what level of anxiety I am going to encounter so I can best prepare.
A typical day
Just like us, dogs are all different! Your dog, your rules. It could be a ball toss and beach play, or just a mild stroll through the neighborhood. I'm also good for settling in with a book for a lap dog. I am open to the comfort levels of each client. We live full time at Dillon Beach, and based on owner comfort level (and mine with your dog) the avid Beach Dog could find him/herself tearing through the sand after a frisbee.
Services
Valerie can watch in your home
Availability
I work for myself and can easily adjust to almost any schedule. I prefer to Rover close to home and not spend a lot of time driving.
About Valerie K.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I have a shorter (4 ft) fenced yard (moderately skilled escape artists would have little problem finding their way out) but don't leave the dogs outside. Not even my own, unless we are all lounging on the deck. The fence is more to keep wildlife out than anything. One skunk too many. ;) In YOUR home, I would be the same way. Just as when my kids were little, I have to have eyes on them to be satisfied they are safe and not chewing anything harmful or off limits.
Information Valerie K. would like to know about your pet
To me, "Dog" is a breed, and it's the breed I prefer. Not all dogs like to be separated from their people. I do like to know what level of anxiety I am going to encounter so I can best prepare.
A typical day
Just like us, dogs are all different! Your dog, your rules. It could be a ball toss and beach play, or just a mild stroll through the neighborhood. I'm also good for settling in with a book for a lap dog. I am open to the comfort levels of each client. We live full time at Dillon Beach, and based on owner comfort level (and mine with your dog) the avid Beach Dog could find him/herself tearing through the sand after a frisbee.
Location
Dillon Beach, CA
Pets
Valerie K.
Dillon Beach, CA