Dog Walking Willow Ridge

About: Hello! My name is Ayana, and I’m 25 years old. I have a passion for working with animals of all ages, sizes, and personalities. I currently work professionally in a dog daycare/boarding environment, where I spend my days caring for dogs in group play settings, monitoring behavior, supporting enrichment activities, and making sure every pup stays safe and has fun! I’ve had animals by my side for as long as I can remember and currently have a kitten of my own who completely runs the household. I also have a senior cat who still lives with my mom and will forever be my first baby. Through both personal and professional experience, I understand how important it is to find someone trustworthy, patient, attentive, and genuinely caring to look after your pets. At this time, I’m offering dog walks and drop-in visits. My work schedule can vary week to week, so I keep my Rover calendar updated regularly to reflect my availability. I can’t wait to meet your pets, learn all their little quirks and personalities, and give them lots of love and attention while you’re away! I plan on providing for your pet as if they were my own while still following all your wants and needs. I will make sure to send pictures and updates!

“Alexander was great! He took the job very last minute and really saved the day!”

Morgan C.

About: I've been caring for dogs since 2014, when my family welcomed our own dog into our home. Because he was reactive around other dogs, I gained firsthand experience with consistent training, patience, and understanding canine behavior. Through structured training and positive reinforcement, I watched him become much calmer and more confident around other dogs, which taught me the importance of tailoring care to each dog's unique personality and needs. I've also fostered a puppy, giving me experience with younger dogs and the extra attention, playtime, and consistency they require. I love keeping dogs active by taking them on long walks and hikes, exploring new trails and neighborhoods while making sure they get plenty of exercise, enrichment, and affection. Whether your dog enjoys an adventure outdoors or prefers a slower-paced stroll, I'll make sure they feel safe, happy, and well cared for while they're with me. I am currently a graduate student at Duke University, so I will have flexible time for your pup's needs! I am free all day on weekends, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday after 12pm, Thursday after 1:30pm. I am available to walk dogs during the day and typically enjoy local hikes around Eno State park. Your dog's safety is my absolute priority. During walks, I always keep dogs securely leashed unless we're in a designated off-leash area with the owner's permission. Since I have experience with reactive dogs, I stay alert of our surroundings and will avoid situations that may be stressful for dogs. When caring for pets at your home, my rule is to treat your home and dog as I would treat mine. This includes following feeding schedules, medication instructions, exercise routines, and respecting house guidelines. I also make sure pets have plenty of attention, playtime, enrichment, and bathroom breaks. As an attentive dog owner myself, I understand the need for peace of mind while you're away. I provide regular updates and photos to keep you informed about how your pet is doing. My intention is to make sure your pup is happy, safe, and healthy while you are apart.

“Sophie is the best! She takes great care of my fur baby and leaves detailed notes and photos! Couldn’t recommend her more strongly! Very glad to be connected with her!”

Jenny G.

“Gina walked our dog Barley for an hour every day while we were at work. She sent plenty of pictures and videos. We could tell Barley enjoyed his walks because when we got home from work, he was calm and not antsy. We would highly recommend Gina and looking forward to working with her again in the future!”

quinn s.

“She's wonderful with my dog, who can be fussy. Syami loves her! My dog is always happy to see her. Kate is a good communicator and I enjoy working with her”

Prafulla D.

“Kat is such a patient and friendly lady. She’s great with dogs and very responsible when walking my dog. She even brought a raincoat for my dog on rainy days which is so considerate. I’ll definitely come back again to her if I need someone to take care of my dog in the future. :))”

Alicia W.

About: I grew up surrounded by animals, from dogs and cats to even baby ducks. I’ve been pet sitting for years and love making animals feel at home. I work and study from home, so pets fit perfectly into my day. I plan walks, meals, and playtime around my schedule to give them full attention. I care for every pet like my own. I keep their environment calm, clean, and safe, follow their schedule, and make sure they always feel loved abd secure.

“Sarah does a great job walking my Tucker and she even put a UPS package inside for me!! Definitely recommend!”

Sarah W.

About: I have been watching and walking dogs and cats (and a few other types of animals!) since I was 15. I love going on long walks, playing fetch or tug, or whatever your dog's needs are. I have experience with puppies as well. I have watched tiny Chihuahuas all the way up to Great Danes. No dog is too small or too large for me to love on. :) My day job is very flexible and I can leave to go on walks or to just go hang out with your pup during the day! I also have experience giving medicine to dogs while their owners were away. I work Sunday mornings and M-Thursday, so I am available most weekends. I can be available as much as you need during the day! My job is very flexible, so I can leave for a lunch break or mid morning or whenever. My dog and I like to get up early for walks, so if you need an early walker, I’m good! I always make sure back gates/fences are secure and that I am not distracted by my cell phone or anything else prior to a walk. I believe that I am extremely conscientious and will leave your home exactly as you left it!

“We have used Brooke twice now on Rover and will be more than happy to rebook again! She has been incredibly reliable, responsive, and loving to our dog!”

Allyson V.

About: I’ve grown up with cats and animals, even helped my own cat give birth (covid times) and currently have 2 cats of my own. I’ve taken care of larger dogs as well, sweet pit bulls are my favorite! I am accommodating and love meeting new people and animals. I’m available to care for animals on extended weekends and weekdays if needed. I am located in downtown Durham and can access your pets quickly if needed. My schedule is very flexible and I am punctual. I love playing with my 2 cats and parent’s dog as I believe playtime is important for stimulation. When I can’t take them on a walk, I find ways to stimulate them, such as indoor blanket puzzles and toy play! I can accommodate each animal per their needs.

About: I am passionate to give every animal the best quality of life possible, whether they’re small or big, loud or quiet, needy or independent. Anyone who knows me knows that if I see a cat or dog, my day is immediately changed for the better. Any pet owner I've met can attest to the amount of care and attention I allow to any and every animal in my possession. What sets me apart from other sitters and walkers is that I will pay attention to every detail. I ask questions and stay as organized as humanly possible, so if your fur baby requires certain care, believe that I will be on top of it. I provide the most compassionate heart for all pet owners and their beloved animals, along with the most precise mind to handle all of their unique qualities. I'm currently working evenings, which means I get home around 10pm every night. If your pet’s care schedule allows for mornings, early afternoons, and late nights, let’s talk! With notice as to any concerns within your home, I will navigate it in any such way the client prefers. Your property deserves the same respect as mine, so necessary care will be taken to protect your space -- no mess of mine left behind.

About: I’ve been a pet mom for over 25 years while raising my five children. Since losing my loyal companion 2 years ago and empty nesting, I am ready to shower love and care to your beloved pet. There’s nothing like the unconditional love of a pet and I can’t wait to meet your furry companion! I am currently a companion to my 90 year old mother and am home every day. I can easily incorporate care for your pet into our very flexible schedule. I can offer walks, play and companionship to your pet and visits to dog parks if they like to play with other dogs. Deck available at home- yard is not fenced in. Beautiful walking area around the lake behind our home.

“Alysha fulfilled my same-day request and their communication put my mind totally at ease. I appreciate her punctuality and promptness, and am grateful she could visit my boy at home when I couldn’t. Thanks, Alysha! 🐾”

Madi H.

About: I’ve pet sat my friends animals, and they’ve had so many! Senior dogs that have accidents and have behavioral issues. Exotic pets, of many kids. Every morning, I fill the cat and water bowl in my room, weekly I clean the bowls. For my dogs, whenever my parents don’t feed them cause they are out, I feed them and fill their water. I brush their coats, and try to give them baths every few weeks or so! However the pet parents would like, but I care for what is best for their health. I understand each pet is different and needs different things. I can bathe the animals depending on behavior, my right leg doesn't haven't as much feeling since surgery and cant handle a lot of big pressure.

“Was courteous and came with his wife to our place. I can see they both loved the dog and took excellent care of him. Highly recommend”

Ela J.

“Tamara was great! Prompt, friendly, a good communicator, and good with Avery.”

Rebecca C.

About: Hello! I am 38, been in Durham since 2013, and I have lived with several friends who had dogs, so I got my start taking care of them when our human housemates were out of town. One of those longtime housemates is a certified dog trainer who had three dogs when we lived together, so I learned a lot from them about dog care and behavior! In my mid 20’s, I was referred to a friend’s parents for overnight dog sitting. I ended up loving it and have been dog sitting for them for 10+years. I’ve also taken care of their three adult children’s pets when they’re on vacation many times, proving that they trust me with their whole family 💜 Three of the dogs I have taken care of have been seniors with medications, special diets and/or needs, such as more frequent potty breaks, or help getting up and down stairs. I enjoy spending special time with those elderly family members. Since then, I have been referred to several other people for overnight stays. I have a few regular clients whose cats and dogs I stay with as well. I grew up a cat person, rescuing and raising kittens from a feral cat colony in our neighborhood. We had six of our own throughout the years who all lived to be between 18-22 years old! I have also taken care of chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs several times. I love to garden and take care of plants, as I have worked on a couple farms for several years and currently live with someone who owns a landscaping/garden business 🌱 I am currently in between jobs while pursuing a new career. Previously, I have managed catering companies for the last 10 years. While I am job hunting, I am very flexible to spend as much time as needed with your pet! When I am staying with a new dog, I make sure to use the owners’ commands, following their instructions to a ‘T’. I believe that dogs can sense when someone isn’t comfortable with them, so I try to establish a trusting relationship where the dog will respect me while also feeling calm with me, during the time when their person isn’t home. I would love to have repeat clients in order to build a longer relationship with them. It always feels so good when I show up to a client’s house and their pet is as excited to see me as I am to see them💖

About: Hey there! I have a friendly pit mix. I’m super active and love spending time with dogs and going hiking. I am in school to become a dog trainer. I have a few tricks up my sleeve. If you need to brush up on some training, I will do so and follow your instructions. I also love working with reactive/challenging dogs. Seeing the moment they understand what they are supposed to do is amazing and so rewarding. I love all types of animals and look forward to spending time with your pet(s) I am available full time but need to come and go to care for my own dog. I typically wake up pretty early and start my mornings with a long walk. I will follow all instructions and routines. If your dog likes to go on hikes or trips to the park, I’m all for it :) as for cats, lots of play if they are active kitties or just chill on the couch and hang out :)