VC N.
Columbia Heights, DC
Dog Walking, Plain and Simple
Pet care experience
I am a recovering IT Guy with over 25 years of experience and like many people I was laid off at the start of the Pandemic. I've decided to get away from IT and I'm (trying to) start a new career as a photographer. As such, I am looking for a few dogs in my general area (Columbia Heights) for weekday walks between 10AM and 4PM ideally to supplement my income. I have been walking dogs off and one for several years and grew up with a mixture of Dachshunds and muts. Depending on your dog and other dogs I may be walking I may walk them together provided everyone is OK with that. I understand that not all dogs mix well and that some may prefer their dog to be walked solo. At the most it would be 2 or 3 dogs but if you'd prefer to have your dog walked solo that's fine, just let me know. My rate is $30/walk with a $5 additional charge per dog from the same owner and/or coming from and going to the same address. Works well for neighbors who have dogs and want to split the bill. Walks are in the 20/30 minute range and are weather dependent. Some dogs are more tolerant to certain types of weather so if your dog enjoy the snow or a little rain I'm fine. If DC has declared a weather emergency though I may cancel. This is something we can discuss.
Reviews
My husband and I went on a trip, and asked VC to watch our dogs while we were away. He was respectful of our property, and our dogs were well taken care of. He walked and fed them, but he also spent time playing with the dogs. We would definitely hire him again.
My dog, Princess, can be a little finicky, but she loves Van, and Van loves her. He's a great caretaker for her and has watched her overnight as well as given her walks and she is always happy to see him when he comes. I highly recommend him for any pet care needs you have. I'm happy to recommend him to anybody who needs a walker or sitter for their beloved pup.
About VC N.
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I prefer dogs in the city to have a harness, I won't walk dogs with just collars, particularly larger breeds, unless I feel that they are not prone to lunging. No choke collars at all and while I am personally not a fan muzzles on larger dogs seem to make people and other dog owners, feel more comfortable.
Information VC N. would like to know about your pet
Let me know if your dog has any special needs or behaviors that I can account for. I am fine with feeding and watering before or after a walk and can give oral meds if needed though that is on a case by case basis.
A typical day
I'm a (budding) photographer so I do enjoy walking around and exploring. I find that dogs enjoy new sights and smells. Depending on the dog and the location checking out the park or dog run for some socialization is always a possibility.
Services
VC can watch in your home
Availability
I am currently laid off / self employed so I do have time and enjoy getting out of the house I am only available during the week and I do not do over-nights.
About VC N.
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I prefer dogs in the city to have a harness, I won't walk dogs with just collars, particularly larger breeds, unless I feel that they are not prone to lunging. No choke collars at all and while I am personally not a fan muzzles on larger dogs seem to make people and other dog owners, feel more comfortable.
Information VC N. would like to know about your pet
Let me know if your dog has any special needs or behaviors that I can account for. I am fine with feeding and watering before or after a walk and can give oral meds if needed though that is on a case by case basis.
A typical day
I'm a (budding) photographer so I do enjoy walking around and exploring. I find that dogs enjoy new sights and smells. Depending on the dog and the location checking out the park or dog run for some socialization is always a possibility.
Location
Washington, DC
VC N.
Columbia Heights, DC