Dog Walking In West Rock

About: Caring for animals has been a constant part of my life. I grew up in a home that always had two dogs at a time, and before moving out, my family had raised six wonderful dogs together. From energetic pups to older companions, I’ve experienced the full range of what it means to care for dogs through different stages of life. I currently share my home with two special-needs cats, which has taught me patience, attentiveness, and the importance of understanding each animal’s unique personality and needs. Managing medications, monitoring behavior changes, and creating a calm, safe environment are all things I take seriously. My primary goal when caring for your pet is simple: I want them to feel happy, secure, and relaxed while you’re away. I also know how important peace of mind is for owners. I’m communicative, reliable, and happy to provide updates so you can feel confident your pet is safe and cared for. I treat every animal with gentleness, respect, and the kind of attention I would want for my own pets. I work remotely in IT for a nonprofit organization, which gives me a very flexible weekday schedule. Because I work from home, I’m able to provide consistent supervision, regular potty breaks, and plenty of attention throughout the day. I genuinely enjoy having some furry company during the week. Whether that means a midday walk to break up my workday or a fuzzy companion nearby while I’m at my desk. Pet care fits naturally into my routine, and I’m happy to structure my schedule around walks, feeding times, medication needs, or check-ins. Your pet won’t be left alone for long stretches, and you can expect consistent updates while you’re away. When caring for pets in a client’s home, I respect your routines and instructions carefully. I follow feeding schedules, medication needs, walking routines, and house rules closely so your pet’s world feels as consistent and familiar as possible while you’re away. I also provide regular updates so you can feel confident everything is going smoothly. If your pet stays in my home, their comfort and safety are my top priorities. They will have their own dedicated space in my finished basement office that is clean, hazard-free, and separate from my cats. This allows visiting pets to relax without feeling overwhelmed, and ensures everyone stays safe and stress-free. The space includes a comfortable couch just for them, plenty of room to stretch out, and a calm environment away from household noise. I’m home during the day, so they’ll receive regular supervision, potty breaks, playtime, and attention, balanced with quiet time to rest.

“Our dog took to Jen immediately. By day two of their relationship, he was looking forward to her arrival. She constantly communicated what they were getting into, both visiting his favorite places and exploring new spots together.”

Rod B.

“Joe was excellent dog walker and arrived timely. Good communication skills and very friendly!”

Jodi P.

“Liz was amazing and accommodated me with a last-minute request! They were so responsive and great with my dogs - everybody was happy and taken care of. :) I’ll absolutely reach out in the future and would recommend them to anyone!”

Grace L.

About: I have grown up around animals and have had both dogs and cats my whole life, as well as various types of small animals. I spent the last year working as an attendant at a Dog Daycare and Boarding center where I learned a lot more about caring for dogs in addition to my previous dog sitting experience. I have experience working with and handling dogs of all sizes and energy levels, specifically large dogs with lots of energy. I have a lot of patience for dogs who get anxious while their families are away and can help them feel as comfortable as possible. I rode horses for 10 years and For several years I worked leading pony rides and handling farm animals for a traveling petting zoo which has given me a well rounded understanding for taking care of animals in general. I am a college graduate and in college I would often take care of my friend’s animals when they were in class or away. At the moment I only have a cat and would love to get to spend more time with dogs again. I work in theatre as a prop and paint artist and a lot of jobs in the field are for a couple weeks at a time and are not always the most consistent. I have full availability on the weekends and have a very flexible schedule during the week, specifically in the morning and evenings but also can likely do mid day. I have helped my sister train her dog and can help continue any training and/or rules you have for your dog while walking and taking care of them. I can keep a close eye on them if they are likely to get into trouble or things they’re not supposed to. I will give your pets lot of love and attention while you’re away. I can also play with your dogs and help get their energy out during the day. My dog is very playful and I often have to run around with him in the yard and play with him in the house to help him calm down.

“Jessica was great. She asked all the right questions and was professional, experienced, and caring.”

Abigail W.

“Melanie made a great first impression for us! She extended thoughtful details, did a pre-meet / greet, and connected with my pup well! (he’s a hyper boy, and can be fearful/bark w new people). She arrives on time and puts us at ease knowing Blue will be well cared for. Grateful for weekly walks.”

Janice T.

About: After years of for-friends & word of mouth dog & catsitting I'm making the jump to pro! I have a relatively open schedule & love to travel..my apartment in New Haven doesn't allow animals so this is how I get pet time in! I work for myself doing mostly gig stuff so am flexible when it comes to timing for potty breaks etc, & am not limited much geographically I've yet to meet a pet I didn't connect w & traveling the world I've learned a healthy respect for other's spaces while staying at their properties

About: I have hands-on experience working on two different farms and Hamden CT’s brooksvale park (all throughout high school) , where I cared for a wide variety of animals, including everything from dogs&cats - cows & sheep . I’ve kept close contact with multiple repeat costumers I’ve built lasting friendships with house sitting/dog walking for. These experiences taught me how to read animal behavior, stay patient, and provide attentive care tailored to each pet’s needs. In addition to pet and house sitting for friends and family, I grew up with four pit bulls in the house and learned how to care for them as pups aswell as in their old age. I Have had smaller pets like hamsters and guinea pigs and currently have my own small dog with a big personality I love very much (side note I can take professional photos of your dog if you’d like) I recently graduated from art school(studying fashion design) and am currently looking for work related to my degree. In the meantime, dog/house sitting and walking fits into my open schedule I make sure every pet feels safe, comfortable, and cared for while they’re with me. I stay attentive to feeding schedules, fresh water, walks, exercise, playtime, and plenty of affection (including belly rubs and treats if allowed!). I’m also happy to accommodate any special routines, medications, or care instructions to make your pet feel at home

“Andrea was so great to communicate with - she sent lots of videos and was clearly so sweet with our dog. Very happy to have connected with her, and highly recommend!”

Erika S.

“Aiden was great with Ozzy! He communicated well, was on time, and a friendly person. Our dog had just had surgery, so we had guidance on keeping Ozzy away and safe from other dogs. We trusted Aiden to take good care of Ozzy, and he did. Would definitely use him again.”

Carmen M.

“Marie is the first dog walker I’ve used on Rover and she has been wonderful!! Very kind and professional and goes above and beyond. She sent me photos from their walk and shared cute updates, which I appreciated ☺️ 10/10 would recommend.”

Shivani D.

“Melissa was available for my last minute booking and when she arrived Dino was stoked to see her. He had a great walk and can’t wait to see Melissa again! Thank you.”

Jen N.

“Sarah did such an amazing job! I have two dogs with very different personalities and she handled them both great! She also took them on a long walk they were still sleepy by the time we got home. Thanks again!”

Kathleen L.

“Catie’s been fantastic! She is so kind, trustworthy, and good with our dog. Our dog has a lot of energy and needs a good walk while we’re working. Catie always brings her back well exercised and ready to nap the rest of the day!”

Julia N.

About: are you in the wider new haven area? do you love your dog very much but have responsibilities of your own? let me help! i've lived with, cared for and been around dogs for most of my life, and i know how unique every pup can be. i love taking a gentle, patient, friendly approach to letting a dog learn to trust me, and i want you to trust me too! just let me know what i can do to help. i have the availability to stop by in the morning, afternoon, and evening, so i am flexible to the needs of you and your dog. i live on structure and organization, so your dog can slide right into my routine! that reliability is very important to me. i really love getting to know animals and their needs just like i would a friend who can tell me using words! i have the energy for pups who need to play and the patience for those who need to warm up to me first. every dog is different, and i let them come to me so they can learn to trust me. the trust of an animal is not something to take lightly! be detailed, let me know how best to make your dog feel cared for and i'll take care of the rest.

“Amanda and Kimchi took to each other right away, and I was able to leave for the weekend feeling secure that he would have some good companionship while I was away!”

Andrea O.

About: I have had and cared for dogs and various pets most of my life. I have experience working at a puppy shop called CT Breeder, where I cared for different breeds of puppies, administered meds, and socialized them with other dogs. Most recently I have care for my dog from a puppy, which is a Bichon/Shih Tzu mixed. I’ve had him since he was 8 weeks old and he is now 3 years old. I potty trained him and taught him some fun tricks. I have also pet set for a family member who has a French Bulldog. I am currently a full time nursing student and I have classes Monday through Thursday. I am available to care for your furry friends Thursday night to Sunday. Depending on the service that I will be providing, I will just follow the guidelines of the owner as far as dog sitting especially overnight. I would care for your furry friends just as you would, so if there are any special precautions just let me know.

About: Playful and down to Earth pet sitter of 6 years. Experienced in dogs of all breeds and sizes, also cats, reptiles, amphibians, and more. Let's play! Current college student of psychology with a well spaced and consistent schedule. Therefore available every day of the week, with potty breaks/drop in's available every 2-4 hrs, and willing to accommodate more to your pet's needs. Great at naturally gauging a pets personality/needs therefore I can quickly become your pet's new furless friend! Fun friend for play time but also awesome at massages (according to my snoring clients) for chill time. I do not have any mammals at home besides myself, however I do have a gecko named Zara who stays in her tank a majority of the time, and my landlord who lives above me has a beautiful pitbull (mix? -- see "Stan the man" in my pet pics)

About: I’ve pet sat and owned a different variety of pets. I am an animal lover and have cared for all ages from puppies to senior and kittens who were bottle fed to seniors. Although I am not technically certified in dog CPR, I know it and have watched videos and reads up on it and have practiced. I plan to look into if it is possible to be certified in it. I am currently in between jobs so my availability is pretty open. Ill be starting a full time soon but I will adjust my availability when I know the start date. I will be working in north haven 730- 3:30 (latest 4 when needed but I’d check with you) I don’t mind overnights or drop ins. I am available most holidays. I recently moved home to CT after living in north Carolina for 3 and a half years. I can crate if needed and become familiar with the rules of the house for the pet(s) (I.e. don’t allow them in certain areas, help them with stairs, etc.). I make sure any messes they make are cleaned up. I make sure to clean up after myself and will follow instructions to clean linens if requested.