

Victoria S.
Ames, IA






Services
Victoria can care for
Availability
My general availability is Monday through Friday. During the spring/summer, I'm available during the daylight hours (i.e., roughly 6:00am - 8:00pm). My availability on Saturdays and Sundays varies, but I will update my calendar accordingly!
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About Victoria S.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
On Walks *** -Safety First: I always keep a firm grip on the leash and remain aware of our surroundings (other dogs, squirrels, or loud traffic) to prevent any sudden lunges or scares. -Environment Check: I’m mindful of the Iowa weather—checking pavement temperatures in the summer to protect paws and keeping walks brisk but safe during our snowy winters. -No "Unmet" Greetings: To ensure safety, I don't allow "on-leash greetings" with unknown dogs unless you’ve explicitly told me your pup is a social butterfly. ****** In Your Home *** -Consistency is Key: Dogs thrive on routine. I will follow your feeding schedules, "off-limits" furniture rules, and any specific training commands you use. -Privacy & Security: I am respectful of your space. I’ll ensure your home is locked tight when I leave, mail is brought in if requested, and the only tracks I leave behind are happy tail wags 😊 -Communication: I'm happy to send "pupdate" photo check-ins at your request! ***** My Promise: *** Whether we are exploring the neighborhood or hanging out in your living room, my goal is to provide a low-stress, high-care environment. I lead with patience and observation, ensuring your dog feels seen, safe, and heard while I'm with them.
Information Victoria S. would like to know about your pet
Please let me know if your dog has any special needs or if you have any specific expectations! I also ask for a "Meet and Greet" before accepting a new dog. You will have a chance to get to know me (and vice versa), and I can observe your dynamic with your dog (and vice versa).
A typical day
Our activities will certainly depend upon the nature of the service. I'm also happy to discuss your personal preferences and expectations. Ultimately, I want to meet your dog where they're at. We can go check out the smells around the neighborhood if we're scheduled for Dog Walking. We can play with their favorite toys or cuddle and watch Netflix on my phone if we're scheduled for a Drop-In Visit.
Location
Ames, IA
Caring for Paws Since I Could Walk!
Pet care experience
About Me *** One of my earliest childhood photos is of me holding the paw of our family dog, Sparky (an elder Pitbull). I grew up alongside our next pup, a Black Lab named Grapes 🍇. I cared for Grapes from his energetic puppy days through his elder years. ****** My Philosophy *** I love the unique energy every dog brings to the table. I understand that not every dog wants constant belly rubs or cuddles; some prefer their own space or a quiet companion to sit nearby. To me, respecting autonomy and consent is paramount. I believe in listening to what a dog is telling me and providing the specific kind of care they need. ****** My Experience *** I have hands-on experience caring for dogs from friends and family, including many breeds: -Pitbulls -Boxers -Labradors -Golden Retrievers -Australian Shepherd (deaf) -Rescues (Greyhound/Beagle mix) -Rat Terriers -Beagles -Miniature Poodles -Husky/Pomeranian mix Whether your dog needs a walk to burn off energy or just a calm human to keep them company while you're away, I’m here to help. I’d love to meet you and your pupper! 😊
Reviews
Victoria has been taking care of my pets for years, and she's always done a fantastic job! She is a caring person and does what's best for my animals. Her personality makes any pet feel at ease instantly. I would highly recommend her to anyone who asks!
Victoria is the kind of person who walks into a house and greets the dog before she even looks at the humans. I have actually had to remind her to say hello to the owners on our walks because she gets so focused on the pets. While I only know her as an adult, it is clear this started early. I have seen photos of her as a toddler just sitting there holding a dog's paw, and that energy hasn't changed at all. She is genuinely invested in how animals feel. She won't even hurt a spider. She just catches them and lets them go outside. What makes her great with dogs is that she actually pays attention to them. She understands the difference between a happy tail wag and a nervous one. She knows when a dog wants affection and, more importantly, when they need space. She is big on consent and never forces herself into a dog's personal bubble if they aren't feeling it. Victoria is just a warm, peaceful person. Dogs pick up on that immediately and feel safe around her. I can't think of anyone I would trust more to look after a pet.
Viki is a natural with dogs, gentle and kind with her words and her touch. She has grown up around dogs and is comfortable in all kinds of settings. Viki loved taking our dog, Bella, to different parks to explore. Occasionally she had the opportunity to watch our dog over the weekends. We never had to worry because we knew Viki was there taking care of Bella. Viki is responsible and loving and would be that way with any dog she cared for.
I have know Victoria for several years. She is incredibly conscientious, responsible, and meticulous. She is kind, friendly, and helpful. She also loves animals and will treat your pets like royalty. I highly recommend her!
About Victoria S.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
On Walks *** -Safety First: I always keep a firm grip on the leash and remain aware of our surroundings (other dogs, squirrels, or loud traffic) to prevent any sudden lunges or scares. -Environment Check: I’m mindful of the Iowa weather—checking pavement temperatures in the summer to protect paws and keeping walks brisk but safe during our snowy winters. -No "Unmet" Greetings: To ensure safety, I don't allow "on-leash greetings" with unknown dogs unless you’ve explicitly told me your pup is a social butterfly. ****** In Your Home *** -Consistency is Key: Dogs thrive on routine. I will follow your feeding schedules, "off-limits" furniture rules, and any specific training commands you use. -Privacy & Security: I am respectful of your space. I’ll ensure your home is locked tight when I leave, mail is brought in if requested, and the only tracks I leave behind are happy tail wags 😊 -Communication: I'm happy to send "pupdate" photo check-ins at your request! ***** My Promise: *** Whether we are exploring the neighborhood or hanging out in your living room, my goal is to provide a low-stress, high-care environment. I lead with patience and observation, ensuring your dog feels seen, safe, and heard while I'm with them.
Information Victoria S. would like to know about your pet
Please let me know if your dog has any special needs or if you have any specific expectations! I also ask for a "Meet and Greet" before accepting a new dog. You will have a chance to get to know me (and vice versa), and I can observe your dynamic with your dog (and vice versa).
A typical day
Our activities will certainly depend upon the nature of the service. I'm also happy to discuss your personal preferences and expectations. Ultimately, I want to meet your dog where they're at. We can go check out the smells around the neighborhood if we're scheduled for Dog Walking. We can play with their favorite toys or cuddle and watch Netflix on my phone if we're scheduled for a Drop-In Visit.


Victoria S.
Ames, IA
