Pet Sitting Forest of Dean

About: Hi, I’m Sonya—a lifelong dog lover offering a genuine home-from-home experience in the beautiful Forest of Dean. My home has direct access to the forest from the garden gate, along with plenty of secure outdoor space, giving dogs the opportunity to explore, sniff, play, and relax in a safe, natural environment. I have experience caring for dogs of all sizes, ages, and personalities, and I’m confident handling both small breeds and larger, more energetic dogs. Every dog is treated as an individual, and I always adapt their care to suit their routine, personality, and needs. Whether it’s feeding schedules, medication, favourite walking routes, or quiet time, I’ll do my best to keep their stay as familiar and stress-free as possible. Dogs staying with me become part of the family rather than staying in a kennel environment. They receive plenty of companionship, enrichment, exercise, and opportunities to rest, all in a calm, structured home where their wellbeing always comes first. From September, I’ll be studying for a degree in Animal Behaviour & Training, building on my passion for understanding canine behaviour, welfare, and positive training methods. I’m committed to continually developing my knowledge so I can provide the very best care for every dog I look after. I know how difficult it can be to leave your dog with someone else, so I’ll keep you updated with regular photos, videos, and messages, giving you complete peace of mind while you’re away. I’m fortunate to be at home full-time, which means dogs in my care receive plenty of attention, supervision, and companionship throughout the day. I live in a peaceful rural location with secure outdoor space where dogs can safely explore, play, and relax. Every day is built around the dogs’ needs, including walks, enrichment, feeding, rest, play, and one-to-one attention. I’m also happy to follow your dog’s usual routine as closely as possible, helping them feel settled, comfortable, and at home while you’re away. Your dog’s safety, wellbeing, and happiness are always my highest priorities. Dogs stay in a calm, structured home alongside my own friendly, well-socialised dogs, where they receive plenty of companionship while still having space to relax if they need it. I supervise all interactions carefully and separate dogs whenever appropriate, such as during mealtimes, rest periods, or if a dog simply needs some quiet time. Owners are very welcome to bring their dog’s own bed, crate, blankets, or favourite toys to help them settle into a familiar routine. My home is surrounded by secure rural land, giving dogs plenty of opportunities for safe outdoor exercise, enrichment, sniffing, and exploration. Every dog is treated as an individual, and I’ll always follow any instructions regarding feeding, medication, exercise, training, or preferences to ensure they receive the highest standard of care.

“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.

“2nd booking with Annie, so happy with her service, she fussed over Simba, looked after him well, watered my plants and left the cat bowls clean and all tidy. Highly recommend ( but not too much so she's too busy for me to book her in again lol)”

Karen A.

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!

About: We've both grown up with all manner of dogs, cats and other indoor and outdoor animals! Dillon has a wealth of knowledge from family members who have done animal welfare courses. Georgia works full time Monday to Friday, and Dillon owns his own business and can work around your pets need! We are both always home every evening and most weekends we are both home. We have a lovely large garden for your furry friends to roam around in, which is all fully enclosed. We live close to a nature reserve and will often take our dog for a walk there and will happily do so with yours as well! Our dog is good with cats and we will happily look after your cats as well! And any other animals you may need care for, our Poppy dog is especially good with puppys and surpisingly baby rabbits!

“Thanks Chloe, we came home to a very content cat who seemed to barely notice we had gone! Won’t hesitate to book again when we’re next away. ”

Rachel W.

“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

“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.

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.

“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 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: I have 2 four legged babies one cat and one dog. I have grown up around pets and am regularly trusted to look after family and friends pets. I am very flexible to suite your needs. I have a dog of my own that needs her daily walks so always up and about. I have a fenced garden at home and live rurally to allow for running and playing in fields my cat is equips with dog seat belts and a guard for the boot.

About: Have always grown around dogs, since I was tiny all I’ve know is dogs. Taking responsibility of walking them, bathing them, feeding them, learning what to look out for in emergency. I have lots of experience with nervous and anxious dogs having been thrown into the deep end when our kooikerhondje puppy became reactive and extremely anxious over everything. So I am confident in dealing with dogs with such characteristics and understand all dogs are unique and no one dog will work the same or enjoy the same things. I’m currently on a gap year and having travelled I am now at home for the summer so have plenty of time to devote to dog care. Having no work to do in the day I can ensure all my time is spent with your furry friends. I have a spacious enclosed garden with a dog flap for medium/small dogs to take themselves out day or night. A flowing supply of water and comfy sofas for a good nights sleep.

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.

About: I love being around animals so to look after other peoples bundles of joy will be my pleasure! I have a German shepherd dog myself so they would need to be ok with other dogs if need an overnight stay but can happily pop in on my days off or working days depending how much is needed etc. can’t wait to hear from you :) I am currently not working so I have everyday free for you pets needs :) I am reliable, kind and happy to help with walks, drop in visits etc. I have my own German shepherd and own house so can have dogs over if they can socialise with dogs and toilet trained. I can pop into your home and stay with them or take them on a lovely walk.

“Judging from how relaxed and happy my cat was when I returned home, I'd say Shannon did a great job. Her regular communication with me was just as requested, too.”

Ginny J.

About: ive had dogs ever since a kid! from a staffy to a king charles spaniel and a little imperial shitzu that i have currently! my pup is my best friend, i hope i can make more along the way :) have always had a love for animals! even wanting to work with them when im older, im currently studying equine dentistry at university :) i am currently at university! as well as working part time. i will always be free mornings and evenings apart from saturdays evenings. im always free all day friday and sundays! respecting your space and your pup is my biggest priority, i will always assure and understand yours and your pups boundaries. as well as being able to provide the proper care your dog needs.

“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.

“Abi has such a lovely caring manner with dogs. Louis our young cocker was immediately comfortable with her. I wouldn’t hesitate to use her services again. Louis looks forward to seeing her again soon.”

Lorraine G.