Pet Sitting Forest of Dean

About: 🧡 Meet and greets with new clients 🧡 Detailed updates of what we get up to incl photos / videos 🧡 Years of experience in detailed pet care 🧡 Extra loving I’ve been around animals all my life, growing up with cats, working Border Collies and family farm dogs. I currently have three cats and a Malinois x German Shepherd puppy, so I’m comfortable caring for a wide range of personalities, from quiet and independent pets to energetic dogs who need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. I have experience walking and caring for working and high-energy breeds, and I’m happy to provide longer walks, play, enrichment and basic training in line with the routines and commands you already use. I’m comfortable with larger and stronger dogs, while also being honest about what I can safely manage. If I ever felt a dog’s needs were beyond my experience or ability, I would always be upfront rather than put your pet, another animal or myself at risk. Safety is a priority during every walk. I take care around roads, livestock, wildlife and unfamiliar dogs, particularly when walking in the Forest of Dean. I’ll follow your instructions regarding leads, harnesses and long lines, and I won’t let your dog off lead unless we have discussed and agreed to it beforehand. For drop-in visits, I can provide the everyday care your pets need while you’re away, including feeding, fresh water, toilet breaks, litter trays, play, company and basic grooming. I’m also comfortable caring for multiple pets and households with both cats and dogs. For pet and house sitting, I’ll do my best to keep your pets’ usual routine consistent. I understand that being away from their owners can be unsettling for some animals, so I’m happy to follow their normal feeding times, walks, bedtime routines and other familiar habits. I also have experience caring for senior and special-needs cats and dogs. I understand that they may need a slower pace, extra attention or adjustments to their usual care, and I’m happy to follow detailed instructions while keeping an eye out for changes in behaviour, appetite, mobility or general wellbeing. Alongside cats and dogs, I’ve worked with horses, sheep and cattle. This has helped me develop a calm, observant approach and become comfortable reading animal body language and responding to different situations. Every pet is different, so I never assume that the same approach will work for everyone. Before caring for your pet, I’d like to learn about their personality, routine, triggers, behaviour, medical or mobility needs and anything else you feel is important. While you’re away, I’m also happy to send regular photos and updates, so you can feel reassured that your pets are safe, settled and being well cared for 🐾 I’m currently taking a gap year from university, so I have a very flexible schedule and can dedicate plenty of time to pet care throughout the week. I’m generally available during the day, evenings and weekends, and I’m happy to work around your pet’s normal routine wherever possible rather than expecting them to fit around a strict schedule of mine. For dog walks and drop-in visits, I’m often able to accept same-day and last-minute bookings, so please feel free to message me even if it’s short notice! Whether you’ve been called into work, plans have changed or your dog just needs an extra walk, I’ll always let you know if I can help. For pet and house sitting, a little more notice is helpful, but I can often accommodate bookings with only a few days’ notice depending on my existing commitments. I’m also happy to discuss longer stays and regular/repeating bookings. My flexibility also means I can usually work around specific feeding times, medication or care routines, puppies needing more frequent toilet breaks, senior pets who need checking on more regularly, or dogs who benefit from walks at quieter times of the day. I’ll always be clear about my availability before accepting a booking. I’d rather be upfront if I can’t give your pet the time they need than overbook myself and provide a lower standard of care. If you’re unsure whether I can fit around the times you need, just send me a message. Even for last-minute bookings, I’m always happy to see what I can do 🐾 Your pet’s safety and comfort will always come before trying to make them do something they’re unsure about. I’m a big believer in letting animals get to know me at their own pace, especially nervous, shy or rescue pets. I won’t force interaction and I’m completely happy sitting quietly and letting them decide when they’re ready to say hello. Before a booking, I like to know as much as possible about your pet and their normal environment. Please tell me about any quirks, triggers, escape attempts, reactivity, resource guarding or other behaviours I should be aware of. I’m not going to judge you or your pet for them! Knowing beforehand just means I can keep everyone safer and avoid putting them into situations they might struggle with. I’m careful with doors, windows, gates and other possible escape routes, particularly with cats and dogs who are known for making a run for freedom the second a door opens. I’ll also follow whatever rules you already have around things like crates, separate rooms, feeding pets apart or keeping certain animals away from each other. When I’m staying or dropping in at your home, I understand that you’re trusting me with your home as well as your animals. I’ll treat your space respectfully, keep things secure when I leave and follow any instructions you give me about keys, alarms, gates or areas of the house. If something doesn’t seem right with your pet, I won’t ignore it. I’ll contact you and keep you informed, and before longer bookings I’m happy to have emergency details such as your usual vet and an alternative contact so there’s a clear plan if something unexpected happens. I’m also happy to do a meet & greet beforehand, particularly for house sitting, nervous animals, larger dogs or more complicated routines. It gives your pets a chance to meet me while you’re still there and gives us time to go through everything properly rather than trying to figure it out on the day. Ultimately, I’d rather ask you an extra question than make an assumption with someone else’s pet. You know them best, and I’ll always take what you tell me seriously. My aim is pretty simple: when you come home, your pets are safe and settled, your home is how you left it and you haven’t spent your entire time away wondering what on earth is happening back home 🐾

“Daisy made the whole process of leaving my pup for the first time so easy. She was kind and reassuring and sent me a video whilst she was there. She was punctual and took care to make sure he was settled before she left. Raffi was very happy and enjoyed his playtime!”

Gayle M.

“Liam did an absolutely fantastic job of looking after our cats; they can be a bit nervous with new people, but we came home to two very happy and confident kitties. Liam took the time to visit beforehand to go over their routine and also had great communication throughout the booking, leaving us feeling reassured that our cats were in safe hands! ”

Sam B.

About: Dogs have always been a big part of my life. Nala and Betty aren’t here as often these days, but I still really value the time I get with them. Whether it’s a steady walk through the woods or a quiet weekend catch-up, it’s always good to have that familiar energy around. Spending time with them is a reminder of why I do what I do at Best of Paws — reliable dog care, where dogs are treated like family. I work from home with a pretty flexible schedule, so I’m around a lot of the time. My girlfriend is a nanny, so she’s usually home by the afternoon. Between the two of us, there’s always someone here to hang out with the dogs and keep things chill. It works out great, especially since we can both give them attention whenever they need it. When I care for pets, whether it’s in their home or mine, it really depends on the dog’s personality and needs. Some dogs might need a bit more quiet time, while others are all about play and adventure. Either way, my focus is always on making sure they’re happy and comfortable. I give them the attention they need—whether it’s playtime, walks, or just cuddles. It’s all about making sure they’re having fun and feeling cared for, no matter where they are.

“Thanks Sonya for helping us out and looking after Yuki at quite short notice, it was great to know he was taken care of while away for the day.”

Eva B.

“Annie was amazing with Gyda and Floki. They both seemed so happy and well looked after when I got home. She sent me daily updates and photos, which gave me great peace of mind. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for a caring and reliable pet sitter.”

Daniela S.

“Tom came out for house visits very last minute for us and was brilliant. Great updates throughout. Thank you from us and Foxy”

Madaline H.

“Holly was great with our bunnies and their medication. She went the extra mile and spent time playing with them which makes the world of difference when we are not around.”

Sion

About: I have always been around dogs since I was a boy, I used to be terrified of them but have grown in a deep lover of dogs. I am reliable and caring setting of hands that can be entrusted to take care of your pets. My gran over the years brought home an eceletic collection of dogs from the homeless shelter she worked in. The different dogs that came back with her have been a variety of ages, breeds, sizes and personalities. I've always been helped to look after them whether it's feeding, walking or just some belly scratches. Currently, I live with my parents and their long-term foster dog Lucky, a roundabout 3 year old, super super friendly Golden Retriever. I also helped my parents raise two rather excitable (and challenging) Beagles so if you're pet friend is a bundle of energy then I have the experience (and patience) to take care of them ✌️ Excited by the opportunity to meet more furry friends. I work from home in Drybrook, Gloucestershire on Wednesdays and work in Malvern the rest of the week. I am happy to stay over to dogsit all evenings and weekends. I can keep your dogs over weekends. I have a safe and securely fenced garden that is open and easy for your dog to access all day. They are happy to play with Lucky, a 3 year old super friendly Golden Retriever, who enjoys the company of other dogs. I am surrounded by woodland and a nearby park which are great for short or longs walks.

About: I am an animal lover with experience looking after my family and friends dogs, house sitting, walking, lots of mental enrichment and of course cuddles! I am a community nurse who loves meeting new people…. And their animals of course! I have a varied shift pattern so my availability may change weekly. I have a secure garden with lawns and room to sniff! I also have a docile cocker spaniel who would reassure and befriend any nervous pooch!

“Chloe was great and our boys were happy and healthy on our return, even Ronnie eventually came out of hiding to say hello after Chloe treated him with such calmness and made sure he ate despite being very nervous. The house was also nice and tidy!”

Hannah E.

“Bethen looked after Willow for an evening while we were out and did a fantastic job. She was punctual, friendly, and immediately put Willow at ease. We came home to a happy (and tired!) pup and the house just as we’d left it. The photos and videos Bethen sent during the night were a lovely bonus and really reassuring — it was clear Willow was being well looked after and having a great time. We’d definitely hire Bethen again and would happily recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable, caring sitter.”

Benjamin R.

About: I’m based in the Forest of Dean and love making the most of the beautiful local woodland and countryside for walks. I’m also fortunate to have dog-friendly fields directly opposite my home, which are ideal for exercise, play and enrichment. I genuinely love dogs and would care for yours with the same patience, kindness and attention I would give my own. I’ve grown up around dogs and have always had a natural affinity with them. I have hands-on experience with a wide range of breeds, sizes and temperaments, including Cocker Spaniels, Springer Spaniels, Labradors, Bullmastiffs and Cane Corsos. I’m therefore very comfortable and confident around large and giant breeds as well as smaller dogs. I’ve also had both male and female working Springer Spaniels, so I’m very familiar with energetic, intelligent dogs who need plenty of physical exercise, mental stimulation and attention. I understand that every dog has their own personality and needs, and I’m happy to follow their usual routine, whether that involves long woodland walks, playtime in the fields, feeding, enrichment, reinforcing their usual training or simply plenty of company and affection. I also have experience caring for dogs with ongoing health needs. One of my own Springer Spaniels experienced seizures and gastrointestinal problems, so I’m familiar with monitoring a dog’s wellbeing, following specific care routines and giving regular medication as directed. I understand how important consistency, observation and good communication with owners are when looking after a dog with additional needs. Above all, dogs have always been a huge part of my life, and I want owners to feel completely comfortable knowing their dog is being cared for by someone who genuinely enjoys spending time with them and will get to know their individual routine, personality and preferences. I currently work part-time, and I live with my retired mum, so there is usually someone at home all day to keep your dog company. I also occasionally care for my sister’s Bullmastiff cross while she works, so having another dog as part of our daily routine is very familiar to us. Living in the Forest of Dean means we’re surrounded by fantastic places to walk. There are dog-friendly fields directly opposite my home, as well as plenty of woodland trails and lakes and ponds nearby for dogs who enjoy a swim. I’m happy to adapt exercise to your dog’s usual routine, whether they prefer gentle walks, longer adventures or plenty of play and enrichment. I’ve previously trained my own working dogs, so if your dog is already familiar with dummies, retrieving or whistle commands, I’d be very happy to continue this with them too. I have a fully enclosed garden with direct access from our family kitchen-diner, where I spend most of my time when I’m at home. Dogs are welcome throughout the downstairs of the house and can settle wherever they feel most comfortable. I occasionally care for my sister’s Bullmastiff cross, who is an exceptionally gentle and sociable dog and is very accustomed to being around other dogs. Despite confident with her temperament, I would always make sure introductions are appropriate if they were to meet. I want dogs staying with me to feel as comfortable and settled as possible, so I’m happy to follow their normal feeding, walking, sleeping, medication and training routines. I’m also experienced with energetic and working breeds and understand the importance of both physical exercise and mental stimulation.

About: Hello! My name is Steph and I am a huge animal lover. I currently work for Dogs Trust as a Behaviour Coach. I work a mix of at home and in centre with community behaviour appointments. I'm a registered and approved Dog Trainer and an Animal Training Instructor by the Animal Behaviour and Traning Council 🐶. Currently undergoing my Animal Behaviour Technician qualification with the ABTC. 
I am also currently undertaking my masters in Clinical Animal Behaviour at the University of Edinburgh and plan to start my dissertation in September 2026. I hope to explore veterinary handling and consent based techniques, a topic I'm super passionate about! 🔥
I have experience at a veterinary referral hospital and can give medication and injections I have had lots of experience with a wide range of animals, including dogs, cats, chickens, small furries and zoo animals. My own fur babies include two house bunnies, Fawn and Fox aged 8, my rescue cat Bo (Bones) aged 4 and Sunny my CKCS aged 8 🐶. My favourite breed of dogs are bull breeds and love curling up with my babies after a long day! 
 In my current job, I help dogs trust and community dogs with behaviour and training support. I offer 1-2-1 sessions in person and virtually and have experience with a variety of behaviour issues, including dog reactivity, aggression, resource guarding, handling and veterinary issues. As such, I am fully aware that every animal has distinctive needs and am more than happy to cater on an individual basis. My services include: 
*Overnight Pet Sitting* Happy to cater Pet sitting to individual client needs and this can be discussed. More than happy to help with looking after your pet in your home with litter/cage changing, watering, feeding, grooming and playtime! I can also administer medication and injections as needed. 
*Other* Frequent pet updates via text or in app. I am aware and understanding of pets which may have behavioural difficulties and am happy to cater to specific needs, e.g. muzzles, keeping away from other animals etc.
If you would like to check my availability and arrange a free consultation, then please get in touch! I currently work in a hybrid role where I am lucky enough to work from Salisbury rehome centre and from home. I am happy to work with clients to find the best match of timings. I am unable to look after pets in my own home, all services are in the owners home. This is to ensure pets feel secure and happy while you are away.

About: I have grown up with dogs all of my life and have one myself. I’ve always enjoyed playing with them and getting to know them. I currently work shifts as a Health Care Assistant at Royal Preston Hospital but I am free on my days off. I can be flexible. I look after my Standard Poodle Florence who I take for a walk twice a day and play with her in the garden on my days off.

“We booked 4 overnight stays while we were on holiday and Hannah will definitely be my 'go to' from now on! My husband and I were able to enjoy some time abroad without worrying. Hannah took great care of Zatoona, our house, sent us updates with picture every evening and even left us an amazing drawing of Zatoona! Thank you, Hannah! 😊”

Lisa-Katharina L.

About: After have taken a break from Rover - I am now back again ready for bookings! I have experience with various breeds and sizes, from puppies to seniors, reactive dogs, high energetic and special needs. I have a great passion for animals and have always had cats and dogs growing up. I have my own dog, Alfie (German Shepherd) so I spend a lot of time out on adventures in the forest. If you book me on a day I’m working I would need WiFi (standard office hours) but would work around your dog and their needs. Regular breaks and accommodate any instructions given by you. Please let me know if you have specific routines/training that are important to you that you would like me to bear in mind. Please also let me know what they are like off lead, medications, feeding schedule, likes/dislikes, do’s/don’t and other information that will be helpful to ensure they have a great experience with me. Any questions, feel free to ask. Looking forward hearing from you. I work weekdays only and mostly from home with flexible office visits so please don’t hesitate getting in touch to discuss a service/booking Due to garden work, my garden is currently not fenced but having the pleasure of living in Forest of Dean, I’m surrounded by nature. I will accompany your dog for any toilet breaks in the garden and have huge fields 5 min walk from my house where we can go for a run around/exercise. If I provide a service at your property, I’m happy to discuss what’s close by and go from there. I love exploring new areas and nature.

About: I was brought up by a lab but long working hours and travelling for family meant I couldn’t have my own. So I’ve always cared for family and friends dogs and now house sit and walk dogs as I visit around the country. Typically I feed and take the dog for a long walk in the morning, continuing any training, letting them run if they can. I then go out and visit for the afternoon, and return to feed play and a bedtime walk, but obviously fit in with your pets usual routine. I try and give them a holiday and fun just as their owners are having, so if it is feasible I may take them with me. I am allergic to cats but happy to sit for other pets and chickens etc in smoke and camera free homes anywhere in the UK. I provide a comprehensive list of questions to enable me to safely care for your animals but please add anything else I should know. Happy to answer any questions. I am busily retired but book dog sitting in between some work (still) and my garden and travels. I can pop in and feed / toilet break for dogs near my home but mostly house snd pet sit. I sit or visit in the pets own home and try to keep to their usual routine. I dont have my own pet so just sit for one household at a time. The day rate covers my sleeping in your house, 2 feeds and 2 walks a day plus day and late night lift a leg short outings. Plus some cuddles and play of course! I cannot usually provide continuous supervision and do go out shoppjng etc. It may be possible to provide 24/7 presence for a short time. Please discuss if needed Walks usually start cautiously and dogs are only off the lead if they do not bolt / run away and it is safe and the owners are happy for me to do so. I enjoy sitting for trained, safe dogs. I try and continue the same words of command training and routines that the owner has used and praise good behaviour. Lots of pats and rewards!! I work in bursts as “bank” and like to travel across the land. That enables me to visit an area, have a variety of walks, and above all, have the company of dogs! I ask a long list of questions, aiming to ensure your pets are safe, and so are the people around them. Initially I walk a dog on the lead till I am sure they know me and will return if called. Then, if the owner wishes, I will walk them off the lead if away from roads , stock animals etc This obviously depends on the owner wishing me to do that and being confident of their dogs recall. I try to ensure that pets stick to their usual routine so they are confident of what will happen. I need smoke cat and feather free space, with a bit of freezer space, somewhere lit to do paperwork and a spare set of keys to secure the house. I bring just about everything else.

“Becky is lovely. Teddy clicked with her immediately and treated her like a long lost friend. This was Becky's first visit to our house and I felt very comfortable with her. She clearly understands dogs very well and behaves in an affectionate and kind way towards them. I will definitely be in touch with Becky again.”

Kay G.

About: I have experience with many different dog breeds ranging from chihuahuas to cane corso’s and love every dog no matter what. I also have experience with reactive dogs and can ensure the safety of any pooch I am currently unemployed but have many years experience looking after dogs of various size and temperament. I am available for drop-in visits as well as walks and playtime depending on the dogs needs. I am able to keep dogs safe both in your home and while out walking. I will never leave your dog alone (even if they are just toileting in the garden). I also have a long line and retractable leads (with a 70kg pull weight) so your dog will never be let off lead in public, no matter how good their recall is.