Dog Walking West Creek Village

About: I am a recent graduate of the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Veterinary Medicine! Through my education, I have developed a strong foundation in animal behavior, welfare, health, nutrition, and safe handling practices. I have hands-on experience working with animals in both veterinary and pet care settings, caring for dogs and cats of various sizes, breeds, and temperaments. My background has taught me that while animals may not be able to speak, they communicate in many ways through their body language, behaviors, and individual personalities. I believe that understanding these signals and recognizing how each pet communicates is an important part of providing safe, comfortable, and compassionate care. As a pet parent myself to my 2-year-old cat, Theo, I understand how important it is to trust someone with your furry family member and how stressful it can feel to leave your pet in someone else's care. My goal is to provide owners with peace of mind while giving each pet the attention, patience, and care that they deserve. I have a flexible schedule that allows me to accommodate your pet's needs and dedicate quality time to their care. I currently am only booking walks and check-ins which can include playtime, enrichment, feeding routines, and companionship. I am happy to work with owners to maintain the routines and habits their pets are comfortable with. While availability may vary, I welcome last-minute requests whenever possible, as I understand that life can be unpredictable and plans can change. Trust and safety are my top priorities at all times when caring for pets. My background in Pre-Veterinary Medicine and hands-on animal care has taught me the importance of proper handling, observing behavior, and promoting animal welfare. I understand that even the calmest animals are guided by instincts and may respond differently depending on their environment and comfort level. Approaching each pet with patience, respect, and awareness is essential to building trust and helping them feel safe and comfortable. When caring for pets in a client's home, I treat their space with the same respect and care I would want for my own pets. I am happy to follow all instructions regarding feeding, medication administration, exercise, enrichment, and any specific routines your pet follows. I welcome as much detail as you would like to provide, as understanding your pet's individual needs helps me provide the best possible care.

About: I haven’t taken care of dogs professionally but I have always had a deep love for dogs. I have owned an American Bully and English Bulldog on my own and have had multiple family dogs growing up. Having my own dogs, I have gone through the process of training two different types of temperaments and am looking forward to engaging/learning about more! I currently work from home as an accountant M-F. I have the flexibility to leave and return as needed. I could take my laptop if I needed to be around for an extended amount of time. Otherwise, I have the ability to use my flexibility to be present. I have an open living room setup and an English bulldog of my own to keep them company as well. We go on multiple walks a day and I make sure to try and exert the energy of whatever dog I am with at the time (so they don’t have much time to miss their parents 😂). I have room to crate the dogs if needed and also a pet camera that helps with monitoring.

“Nancy was fabulous with our dog! She was dependable and respectful. Our dog enjoyed her time with Nancy so much that she was upset when she left. I would gladly book her services again!”

Pat L.

“Wonderful with woody”

Heather S.

“Jacob had been taken cared of during his walks, they sent photos and updates of the walk and how it went. Would definitely have them again for my dog walking needs”

Novie Dale C.

“Betty is awesome!!! I have had her scheduled for daily walks for my puppy since I started my new job. She is always prompt and brings her on nice long walks, no matter the weather. I love getting pictures and updates everyday! She is super flexible and very accommodating when I have a surprise day off or surprise over time and need to cancel or add an extra walk. Definitely recommend!!”

Katherine M.

About: I’ve taken care of dogs my entire life! I have 5 dogs of my own. I have three mini goldendoodles, and pitbull, and a hound dog! I have taken them on walks and cared for them since I was young! I am well versed in all of the different breeds, and I am excited to get to know your dogs!!!! I currently work part-time, which gives me flexibility to care for your pets. I am typically available in the mornings and evenings and can provide reliable, attentive care that fits your pet’s routine and needs. always prioritize your pet’s safety, comfort, and routine while caring for them in your home. I will follow any instructions you provide regarding feeding, walks, medications, and playtime. I am attentive, responsible, and committed to keeping your pet happy, safe, and well cared for while you’re away!!

About: Hi everyone! My name's Shirl and I am hoping to make your life a bit easier by taking away the stress of leaving your pup behind while you're away. I have been pet sitting for over 12 years; I used to have dogs come board with me while owners went away, but I've found that most owners prefer their pets to stay in the comfort of their own home. I have years of experience doing overnight pet sitting, but unfortunately my growing family (3 dogs and a cat of my own) no longer allows for me to stay away from home overnight. I am happy to provide multiple daily visits and/or walks! My goal is to keep your pet as comfortable as possible while you're away, by keeping their daily routine as close to "normal" as possible. I've cared for all types of pets including dogs, cats, bunnies, chicks, quail, lizards, fish, etc.! I am an experienced dog handler/ animal lover at heart. I worked at/managed a doggie day care/boarding facility for 4 years, learning from a very experienced trainer who focuses on positive reinforcement techniques ONLY. During my time there, I had opportunities to complete trainings to understand dog behaviors and body language. I have volunteered at BARCS as a dog walker/foster, working primarily with bully breeds. Why I love dog sitting I have been an animal lover my entire life. From playing with salamanders as a kid, to growing up with cats and dogs of all shapes and sizes; I've also had bunnies, fish, frogs, hermit crabs, hamsters, birds...the list goes on! I couldn't imagine a life without animals in it. My experience administering medication Yes. Working at a dog boarding facility for nearly 2 years I have had to give many forms of medications, and my personal pets also take oral medications. I am not trained to give injections. My full time job allows me to work from home majority of the week. That makes it easy for me to swing by for a visit at different times of the day. The latest drop in I can provide is 7pm. I am happy to provide updates as soon as I arrive, during the stay, and as I leave. For dog walks, I prefer not to introduce any dog that I’m handling to another dog passing by. This ensures everyone’s safety.

“I have NEVER heard my dog scream in excitement like he did when he saw Matt again yesterday! If I ever die, I really hope Matt & Jenni would consider taking him in! Their dog, Daisy, is seriously my dog's favorite girlfriend. Thank you both for so lovingly enriching his life!”

Gretchen K.

About: Dogs have always been a big part of my life. I grew up with Border Collies and have also adopted several dogs over the years, so I'm comfortable with everything from high-energy working breeds to laid-back companions. I've also volunteered at several shelters, giving me experience with dogs of different ages, sizes, temperaments, and backgrounds. I work from home (as does my wife) so your pet will be getting consistent, attentive care. To be honest, our dog passed away last fall and we are missing the joy of being dog owners and having dogs around, but we need something a little more flexible for the time being. You are getting two sitters for the price of one and we will care for your dog as if they were our own :) As a former dog parent who has used Rover, my goal is to provide exactly what I was looking for each time I booked a walker/sitter: clear communication, limited hassle, and all of the assurances that you can rest easy and not worry...your doggo is in good hands! I work from home and call my own hours (as does my wife) so as long as we know your dog's routine we will make sure to incorporate it into our own. We have a fenced-in yard and a walking path near our home so walks are never a problem (we love walks). My wife and I both work from home so one of us will always be giving your dog attention/supervision. We have previously owned dogs who were flight risks so we have been conditioned to keep an eye out, keep doors closed, etc. We have a big fenced-in yard and have a little indoor gate/fence that we use in the house if need be to secure a hallway, etc.

“Our dogs love Fiona! Fiona always goes above and beyond—whether it's making sure my dog gets enough exercise, providing water breaks, or just giving extra attention and love. I appreciate their punctuality and professionalism, and I feel completely at ease knowing my dog is in such good hands. Highly recommend!”

Trudi R.

About: I’ve always had a soft spot for senior dogs and pets that need a little extra patience, attention, or understanding. I’ve participated in shelter skip days at the SPCA, and I’m almost always drawn to the older dogs. That’s just where my heart is. I genuinely enjoy taking things at their pace, helping them feel safe, comfortable, and cared for. I’m also a huge cat person. Whether your cat is social and playful or more reserved and independent, I’m happy to meet them where they are and make sure they feel relaxed while you’re away. I understand that every pet has a different personality, routine, and comfort level. I know how important trust is when someone is caring for your pets, and I try to be the kind of sitter I’d want for my own animals, responsive, dependable, calm, and genuinely caring. Whether it’s walks, drop-ins, medication routines, companionship, or just giving your pet some extra love and attention, I’m happy to help. Pet care is the perfect fit for my current life schedule. I took early retirement from my day job just so I could provide pet services. It’s way less stressful and more rewarding. I can provide overnight care for a dog in my home as well as provide drip in visits and walks. I can do extended drop in visits for cats so they have a chance to get to know me.

About: Animals are Gods among us. I agree with Ricky Gervais, that "a dog loves you more than it loves itself, and that's why I worship dogs." Honestly, this gig is a bit selfish - my sweet baby Pit Mix passed away recently & I miss her terribly. I'm certain that engaging with animals will soothe this depression. I am socially awkward with humans, but I love animals. This will be therapy, a true gift, to me. I also need to exercise more and would like to be able to afford any kind of home, some day. My family has had pets since I was in kindergarten. I volunteered with Faithful Friends in High School, through which I also fostered kittens. I have taken care of my neighbors' & friends' pets while away over the years, which I equate to a collective total of ~2 years. I take medical issues very seriously & cared for my doll when she was ill. I understand how stressful & important it is. My favorite thing about walking a dog is when the folded tops of their ears bounce up and down. I work full time until ~4:30PM, but I am usually free after. I am available for boarding on the weekends. On the days I work from home (typically Monday & Wednesday), I can also provide a walk or check in during my lunch hour (1 to 2PM). There are no other animals or children in my home; your pet will have my undivided attention. I have a large partially fenced in yard, and many walking trails nearby. I'm also happy to take care of a pet in your home, if preferred.

“Vienna is really good with my pup, he is so happy after his walks. She sends cute photos and make sure your pup is cared for.”

Novie Dale C.

About: I’ve been raised around dogs my entire life. My family has had all kinds of dogs; big and small, old and young, energetic and couch potatoes. Friends and family alike call me a dog whisperer for the connections I’m able to make with them. I’m currently finishing my Bachelors of Accounting completely online, so my schedule is completely flexible around your pets needs!! I’m excited to provide the best care possible for your pet!! I’m comfortable walking dogs, crating dogs, feeding dogs, checking all essential needs before leaving them alone, and making sure they are let out plenty of times.

“Erikah was great with my parents’ dog and easy to work with prior and after the walk. I appreciated that she did a meet and greet. I manage my parents Rover account from afar and it’s sometimes hard to find walkers who are so responsive and nice.”

Joanna M.

About: I have extensive experience caring for dogs, including my previous dog, an 80-pound Golden Retriever. She could be reactive toward other dogs while on leash, so I became very comfortable handling strong dogs, staying calm in challenging situations, and maintaining control even when she was pulling. In addition to caring for my previous dog, I have regularly looked after neighbors’ and friends’ dogs by walking, feeding, and ensuring they were well cared for while their owners were away. In my personal life I love going on long runs up to 6 miles so if you have a higher energy dog that would like to join me I would love to take them with me! I am currently a university student, and I have off of school until the spring semester begins in February. I am free most weekends, and weekdays Monday-Friday. I am comfortable your dog or dogs in any environment. I have taken care of dogs that used special harness’ or prong collars so I know how to work those if needed. I love to run and hike so I can also bring your dog along if they are extra energetic!

“Tracey is wonderful with ILy. And we couldn’t be happier with her. Ily is walking much better now and I attribute that to Tracey. Thank you!! 🐶”

David C.

“Shalyssa M. is absolutely fabulous. My Coco took to her enthusiastically. She obviously loves animals and has just the personality for Rover! I enjoyed meeting Shalyssa during the meet/greet and so did Coco. She is punctual and very kind.”

Kate S.

About: I’ve taken care of family and friends’ dogs throughout the past few years. I provided whatever they needed whether that was feeding, walking, or playing. I’m currently working a part time restaurant job that never ends later than 10:30 pm. So I will have plenty of time to take care of pets overnight and during the day. I provide reliable, attentive care in my client’s homes by following routines, offering playtime and affection, administering medications as needed, and keeping owners updated regularly.