Pet Boarding Riner

About: I am an Animal and Dairy Science student at Virginia Tech, part of the Honors College, and on the pre-veterinary track. I am also currently completing a master’s program in Animal Behavior and Welfare, which gives me a strong scientific foundation in animal behavior, stress, enrichment, and humane handling. Throughout college I have also worked as an RA for the Honors College and as an ambassador for the School of Animal Science, which has given me strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, I have hands-on experience working in multiple, varied veterinary clinics, allowing me to care for animals of different temperaments, ages, and medical needs with confidence and professionalism. I have years of experience caring for a wide range of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, ducks, and other livestock and companion animals. Throughout college, I volunteered consistently at an animal shelter, where I worked with shy, fearful, high-energy, and senior animals, gaining experience in safe handling, enrichment, and basic training reinforcement. I am especially comfortable with puppies, senior pets, and animals that need patience, routine, or extra reassurance. What sets me apart is my combination of academic training, real-world veterinary and shelter experience, and genuine love for animals. I approach pet care thoughtfully, paying close attention to behavior, body language, and individual needs. I am also actively working toward animal training certifications, allowing me to reinforce good manners, routines, and positive behaviors during care. I treat every animal as an individual and prioritize their safety, comfort, and well-being at all times. I am currently in a few morning courses to finish my undergraduate degree and taking animal behavior and welfare classes online towards my master’s degree. This gives my flexibility during almost every part of the day, every day. When caring for pets in a client’s home, I prioritize safety, trust, and consistency above all else. I closely follow each pet’s routine, feeding instructions, and any medical or behavioral needs, while paying careful attention to body language and stress signals. My background in animal science and behavior allows me to handle pets calmly and confidently, maintain a clean and secure environment, and ensure pets feel comfortable and well cared for in their familiar space.

About: I've grown up surrounded by animals my entire life, and that hands-on experience is what truly sets me apart. I was raised with three cats (2 indoor, 1 outdoor), caring for them from kittenhood all the way through end-of-life care, including demanding daily routines and administering medication. I also have two dogs of my own: a Mini Australian Shepherd I raised from a puppy and personally trained. He’s so smart he keeps me on my toes, which means I know exactly how to handle high-energy, high-drive breeds and the escape artists of the dog world. The other is a large pitty mix we adopted at age two who came to us with leash pulling, reactivity, excessive barking, and rough play habits, all of which I've worked through and successfully managed. I know how to confidently handle dogs of all sizes and temperaments. Beyond cats and dogs, I've owned two guinea pigs, a hamster, and fish, so I understand the specific and often overlooked needs of small pets too. I've also assisted my sister in fostering cats, many of whom were shy, post-surgical, or required medication and special feeding instructions, so I'm completely comfortable with pets that need a little extra patience and TLC. Most recently, I pet sat a kitten over spring break 2026, and I'm always happy to sit for other pet owners' animals as well. As a sophomore in Alpha Chi Omega, I bring the same reliability, respect, and communication to pet sitting that I bring to everything I do. I treat every pet as if they were my own, follow your routines to the letter, and love keeping owners in the loop with regular updates, photos, and videos, as often as you'd like. If you're looking for someone experienced, trustworthy, and genuinely passionate about animals, I'm your person! I currently only have one exam left, so my schedule is essentially wide open! I'm in Blacksburg and available May 9–12 and May 16–22, with virtually nothing on my plate during those windows. Whether you need someone for a full house sit, multiple check-ins throughout the day, early morning visits, or late night drop-ins, I can make it work. Flexibility is my strong suit right now, so don't hesitate to reach out no matter the timing or frequency! I'm happy to care for pets both in my home and in yours! For in-home sitting and visits at your place, I'm completely comfortable following whatever routine, rules, and setup you have in place, your home, your way. If you'd like your pet to stay with me, I welcome that too! Just note that I live in an apartment, so I don't have a fenced-in yard, but my complex has a dog park and is surrounded by beautiful neighborhood nature trails that are perfect for walks and exploring. I'd also ask that you send everything your pet needs along with them (crate, food/water bowls, bed, toys, leash, etc.) so they have the comfort of their own familiar belongings, which is honestly better for them anyway!

“Our pups loved staying here, like a second home! She communicated super well, sent lots of pictures and updates and took perfect care of our girls! Will definitely rebook”

Hanna R.

About: I’ve cared for a variety of dogs with different needs. I’ve always enjoyed working, caring, and playing with dogs of all sizes. I love to make sure they have a great time with me! I have a lab mix who loves making friends. Fur baby’s will get lots of love from me and my pup. Anything from cuddles to running around outside. I am currently only doing walks and drop in visits, house sitting/pet sitting may be discussed with longer term clients. I have very open time ranges and day availability. I have years of experience with various breeds and demeanors. I love spending time with animals and providing them with a fun time. My dog also love making new friends!

“Gretchen is an amazing person, loving and caring. She's great with our baby girl Star. Every time we need someone to watch Star we were happy to know that Gretchen was there, Star loves coming to see her, she runs and hugs her every time she sees her. Gretchen keeps us updated, gives Star her medications and that's something that we appreciate. Gretchen goes above and beyond for Star, she definitely works with us (one time we needed to modify the reservation and add days since I was in the hospital and she gladly took care of Star, she even went out of her way and got Star food and supplies that she needed). We trust her and are beyond happy knowing that our Star is well taken care of.”

Jasza M.

About: We've taken care of our own and family dogs for 20+ years, including dog sitting, outings, walking, and training/agility. We treat dogs as our family and are truly passionate about their well being. We currently work from home remotely and have flexible time to attend to the dog throughout the day, including frequent visits, walking, playing, and training. We have a fenced in yard and two smaller/medium dogs to keep your baby comfortable and entertained, including many toys, dog pool, and agility equipment.

“Joe was great, he kept me up to date with my dog as well as sending me pics. He actually helped me to know that my boy is high energy lollz. He is usually not with me. Back to Joe, he was patient with Creed inspite of him not being able to Unwind, and get settled due to being in a new environment. Joe is kind,patient with a laid back vibe. Thanks Joe again for taking care of Creed.”

Mzawesome