Dog Walking Rockbridge

About: Experience & Philosophy With over a decade of hands-on experience caring for a diverse array of animals—from dogs and cats to reptiles and small exotics—I bring a deep, foundational understanding of animal behavior and needs to every walk. This extensive background, enriched by my work with animal foster groups, has honed my ability to read subtle cues and adapt to each pet's unique personality and comfort level. I don't just see a walk as a routine task; I view it as a vital opportunity for enrichment, exercise, and building a positive connection. My Approach: Patience & Partnership My core focus is on fostering trust—both with your pet and with you. I believe patience is the cornerstone of a great relationship, so I take the time to let shy or anxious dogs warm up at their own pace, using calm, positive reinforcement. For you, the owner, this means consistent, clear communication and detailed updates, so you always feel confident and connected while you're apart. Your peace of mind and your pet's genuine comfort are my top priorities, ensuring every outing is safe, enjoyable, and tailored to your specific expectations. I am self-employed and work from home. Because of this I maintain my own schedule, which means your pets can be my priority when I am with them. My home is an active and engaging space, perfectly suited for dogs who thrive with plenty of stimulation and exercise. As the proud owner of a high-energy herding dog, I have firsthand experience in meeting the needs of active breeds. Our daily life is built around structured enrichment and ample physical activity, from puzzle games and training sessions to long, adventurous walks and play. Your dog won't just be staying with me—they’ll be joining a fun, dynamic routine that keeps their body and mind happily engaged. Your pet’s safety and comfort are paramount. I maintain a clean, secure, and pet-proofed home to ensure a stress-free environment. With a resident expert in canine energy, I am exceptionally attentive to reading play styles and ensuring all interactions are positive and supervised. If your dog loves to play and learn, they will fit right into our active and loving household.

About: My property has 1-acre of fenced space where your pup can run around until their heart’s content. If you have a senior pup, a young puppy, or a dog with complex medical needs, you have found the right home. Having loved and cared for my own Akitas through major health challenges—including blindness—I am completely comfortable managing complex medication schedules, topical treatments, oral meds, and injections. As an experienced dog and puppy foster (who even once fostered a litter of nine puppies!), I understand canine body language and know how to support anxious or transitioning pets. Rest assured, your pup will be cared for and welcomed with open arms no matter their situation. Pet care is my full-time job right now. I am generally away from the home for no more than a couple of hours, and if I do need to be away for longer, I will ensure you are aware in advance. I have a fenced backyard and three dogs of my own who will keep your pup company. My own dogs are a senior male, fully blind American Akita, an adult female pug mix, and a male puppy pug mix (the adult female’s puppy). I ensure all dogs are kept separate during mealtime and, as needed, during playtime where dog toys may be involved. I have crates and playpens, extra dog dishes, and plenty of indoor and outdoor toys for your pup to use as much or as little as they want. My own dogs love to cuddle and sleep on the couch and bed, and your pup is welcome to as well, as long as it’s okay with you. I’m happy to provide updates throughout your pup’s stay based on a frequency you’d prefer to ensure you feel comfortable with their time in my care.

“Cara was great with my girls and receptive to their needs.”

Ryan P.

About: I’ve grown up with dogs for as long as I can remember. I’m a huge dog lover who has 3 dogs at home. I’m frequently helping out friends or family by stopping by and taking care of their animals when they can’t be around. I’m currently a college student in Lexington, so I will make sure to work around my class schedule when it comes to drop-ins or overnight stays! I’m very flexible and will always find time to make your pet care requests work! I make sure to keep the enviornment exactly as the owner prefers, and make sure to take all safety measures seriously. I make sure to keep everything in order and tidy while respecting house rules. I own 3 energetic dogs who play constantly and run around the yard, so I am definitely used to a little controlled chaos. I can easily take dogs on walks or crate them. I also make sure to check in with the owner and send in pictures of their pet!

About: I can walk your pet, bathe your pet if needed, and also pet sit if you want me to. Just ask me, the worst I can do is say no. I’m available most days for pet care, I do work between 8-5pm Monday to Friday, but other than that I’m available whenever you need me. I make sure that all my animals have what they need at all times, as well as my clients pets, if they need/want it they will have it.

About: I’ve been an animal lover and dog owner my entire life. For the past 13 years, my sweet Riley was my constant companion and best friend. I lost her in November, and while I’m not quite ready for another pet of my own, I have plenty of love and attention to give to yours. My three adult children all have dogs, so I’m also a proud “grand-doggie” mom! I’m comfortable with dogs and cats of all ages and understand that every pet has their own personality, routine, and needs. I’ll care for your pets the way I would want someone to have cared for Riley—with love, patience, and lots of attention. They’re not just pets; they’re family. I am currently available anytime. I work from home with my own coaching business and on occasion I help my mom with her doctors appointments. I live on a walking path and enjoy walking every day. I have been a dog owner for over 35 years and very careful and aware of my surroundings.

About: I’ve taken care of little ones all the way to seniors. I am very comfortable in walks, grooming, preparing meals, house sitting, giving medication, park trips and house calls. Animals are my weakness, I absolutely adore them! I currently work part-time and I make my own schedule. I am very flexible and I can be where I’m needed with short notice. I am pretty open on weekends, as well. I will follow the guidelines you give me. I typically prefer a list of some sort, or instructions and I follow that exactly. I am experienced in crate training, if needed.

About: I have experience handling, training, and caring for dogs of all ages. As well as, but not limited to, cats, birds, hamsters, Guinea pigs, bunnies, fish, and turtles! I work part time so I have plenty of time to devote to your furry loved ones. I love animals so I would be more than happy to welcome them into my home! I have one friendly dog and cat as well as a back yard. I follow all care instructions given carefully and will love and play with your beloved pet.

“This was my first time using Rover (and the first time having anyone outside of family care for my puppy), and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience! I have a young Doberman with a lot of energy, and Arya was patient, calm, and firm in just the right way—which is exactly what she needs. He took her on a nice long walk, and I really appreciated the videos he sent along the way. They gave me peace of mind and made the whole process so much less stressful. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone looking for someone reliable and confident with energetic dogs!”

Paige H.

About: Hi! I’ve been caring for dogs, cats, and other animals since I was about 15 years old. I’ve always had a genuine love for animals and enjoy making sure they feel safe, comfortable, and cared for while their owners are away. I also have experience working as a beginner-level dog groomer, which gave me even more hands-on experience with dogs and their individual needs. I eventually left grooming to pursue my career as a CNA, but my love for animals has never gone away. I’m patient, responsible, and caring, and I would love the opportunity to treat your pets like they’re my own! My schedule is very flexible, which allows me to dedicate plenty of time and attention to the pets in my care\. I understand that every owner has different schedules and needs, and I’m willing to work around those schedules whenever possible\. My flexibility makes me a great fit because I can provide consistent, dependable care without rushing or leaving pets alone for long periods of time\. I’m happy to give each animal the attention, love, exercise, and care they deserve while their owners are away\. want every pet and pet owner to feel comfortable and confident when choosing me for their pet’s care. I provide a calm, clean, and welcoming environment where pets can feel safe, relaxed, and cared for. I understand how important it is to trust someone with a beloved pet, so I treat every animal with patience, attention, and the same love and care I would want for my own.