4.7

I will begin with my last paragraph: I highly recommend Vanessa as a pet sitter and would absolutely have her care for my dogs again. I feel very comfortable knowing that they—and my home—are in her hands. If you need more information, read on! I reached out to Vanessa to pet-sit in my home, including overnight stays, for three days. Given her background working at the EASEL shelter and her interest in special education and social work, I thought she would be an especially good fit for my two dogs: my eight-year-old, 80-pound poodle mix and my four-month-old, 15-pound Miniature American Shepherd puppy.
 I was somewhat anxious about leaving a young puppy with a sitter. At four months old, puppies are still learning, and I knew that inconsistent handling could easily lead to the development of unwanted habits. From our very first meeting, however, Vanessa gave me confidence that my dogs were in good hands.
 At our Meet & Greet, my large poodle mix approached Vanessa with his big, loud, deep bark. It was the first time he had ever met her and she handled the introduction beautifully. Rather than immediately trying to engage with him, she remained calm and allowed him the time and space to figure out that she was not a threat. She didn't overreact or become nervous, and the interaction went very well.
 When she met the puppy, who immediately started jumping on her, I said, "Off," at the same moment Vanessa said, "Down." She immediately adjusted and began using "Off" as well. That small moment told me a lot. It was clear that she was paying attention to the puppy's development and understood how important consistency is when training a young dog. She listened carefully to my concerns and gave me thoughtful feedback, which reassured me that she truly understood what I was looking for.
 While I was away, Vanessa sent me pictures and videos of the dogs eating both breakfast and dinner. This was especially reassuring with a four-month-old puppy because it confirmed that they were being fed at the appropriate times. I trust the sitters I hire, but I also appreciate having confirmation that they've arrived and knowing that important parts of the dogs' routine are being followed. I've had sitters in the past who didn't provide that kind of communication, leaving me wondering whether they had arrived or whether something unexpected had prevented them from getting there. A simple picture or message eliminates that unnecessary anxiety for me, and Vanessa was excellent about keeping me informed.
 After I returned, I asked Vanessa if she would be willing to sit again in a couple of weeks. She adjusted her schedule to accommodate my dates, which I thought was incredibly considerate and definitely above and beyond the call of duty!
 As I watched Vanessa interact with the dogs after spending three days with them, I could see that she understood the importance of correcting the puppy when necessary and, just as importantly, knew how to do it appropriately. She didn't overreact, but she also didn't let things slide. She was consistent about using the correct commands, which is particularly important with a puppy who is learning what is expected of her. I now have a list of obedience commands that I can leave for Vanessa on her next visit, and I have complete confidence that she will use them consistently.
 When I returned home, I found the house exactly as I had left it. Vanessa had even stripped the bed in the guest room, making it easier for me to wash the sheets. That small gesture was another example of how thoughtful and considerate she was throughout her stay.
 Vanessa is attentive, thoughtful, responsible, and genuinely caring. She clearly understands dogs, but what impressed me most was her attentiveness to my puppy's development and her willingness to follow through consistently with the training and routines I had established.
 I highly recommend Vanessa as a pet sitter and would absolutely have her care for my dogs again. I feel very comfortable knowing that they—and my home—are in her hands.

Vanessa continues to be extremely reliable...professional ...trustworthy and so very caring with my pup Dessi. My dog just LOVES Vanessa & even watches her when she leaves and pulls out of our parking lot,...and does a little groan as Vanessa pulls away. Destiny misses her when she leaves. Vanessa will always play with Destiny for a few minutes before each walk which is something many walkers surprisingly don't bother to do. She is someone who can be trusted with your beloved pets...and she is a quintessential example of a truly responsible , compassionate pet caregiver. We are so fortunate to have Vanessa !!

Vanessa is awesome. My dog really liked her & they became friends quickly.