About
My service is unique in that I really enjoy senior dogs and am unafraid to give medications or change diapers. Puppies are great too, don't get me wrong - but there are lots of care providers who will take care of young animals. In my experience it is difficult to find someone who has experience with and isn't afraid of older dogs.
BOARDING/DOG SITTING IN MY HOME
Currently, I charge $45 per day for ONE small/medium dog. Large dogs are $10 more per day, and dogs that require medication to be administered are also $10 more per day. A second dog would be an additional $25 per day. I have 3 smaller dogs of my own, so yours will need to be comfortable with that. If your travel takes you away for a week or more, depending on the situation - I would be willing to consider a discounted rate.
I have several clients that I sit for on a regular basis who can speak to my capability and love for animals (and, now, including two cats!!) I have fostered many dogs in the last 20 years, and have had up to six in my house at one time. I would love to have your dog(s) stay with me! Being able to care for an older dog and see the gratitude in their eyes, provide them with a safe place to sleep and watch over them is really the most rewarding work in the world to me.
GROOMING - please read !!
For those of you interested in having me groom your dogs, thank you! However ... I want to be clear, I am NOT a trained groomer. I have NOT had professional training. I have dogs and I cut their hair with real grooming tools; I use a table and adhere to very safe principles. I have some "street experience" but it's not formal in any way. I won't do anything complicated - but I can trim, shave and bathe. Cutting nails is usually difficult with a dog that doesn't already trust, so I would most likely defer to another place for nail trims. I don't charge very much because I appreciate the opportunity to practice. I do have a few boarding clients who let me groom their dogs, so if you would like you can speak to them about what I do. I'm not pretending to be anything other than what I am. If you want to talk about it on the phone, I'm happy to do that 2066 1880 91. HomeGuide has become difficult to work with so please feel free to reach directly. The charge would be $30 for a haircut & a bath AT MY HOME, and I would have to do it on a Saturday or Sunday.
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Reviews
Valerie D.
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Brett H.
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Ashley P.
Cassidy L.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I am a total dog person and want to meet your dog(s) ASAP so we can get acquainted! First, let's make arrangements to meet in a neutral place like a park or large parking lot to do some first sniffs. Tell me your favorite treat and maybe I'll bring some! I have an intake form for new clients to provide additional information for "just in case" which also includes suggestions for what the client should bring with them as well.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a lot of doggie "street cred" from having had dogs my whole life. I've taken basic obedience training classes with multiple dogs and am a stickler for routines, leashes and giving love over treats. I am experienced with senior dogs and have lots of experience giving medications and taking care of incontinence or behaviorial issues. I currently have one westie terrier, a female who is approx 4 years old and a rescue from China. She is the 11th dog I've had experience with through my participation in a local dog rescue; she was a foster but I fell in love & adopted her! My other dog is a terrier mix, a male approx 3 years old, also a rescue - but he was locally abandoned to rescue and I adopted him as well.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
I would prefer to keep your dog at my place while you are away, but I understand how wonderful it is for a pet to stay at their own home. If staying at YOUR house I would charge $75 per day with a minimum of 2 days. I would plan to be with your dog the entire time you are away.
If staying at MY house, I charge $45 per day with a minimum of two days. ADDITIONAL $10 CHARGE PER DAY FOR:
* Large dogs over 40 lbs
* Senior dogs requiring special medications or who are incontinent
* Aggressive dogs (This requires a meet prior to stay)
ADDITIONAL $25 CHARGE PER DAY PER DOG FOR:
* Boarding more than 1 dog at a time (MAX 3; TBD!)
I accept cash payment or electronic payment by Zelle or Venmo. Half of total boarding fee paid in advance or at time of drop off, balance when dog is picked up.
And .. tip$ are always graciously accepted!
Cancellation of boarding arrangements without 48 hours notice will require a change of schedule fee of $45 or the equivalent of one day of boarding.
How did you get started in this business?
I had an elderly westie who didn't do well when I boarded her at the vet. It was very stressful for me to leave her behind and go on trips or vacation knowing that she was suffering. I want to be able to help other people in a similar situation, because after-all - dogs come first!
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have a lot of experience with terriers (westies, cairns & scotties), puppies and especially senior dogs. I am comfortable with administering medications, and I know how to deal with doggie diapers for both girls AND boys. I have experience with doggie dementia, deafness, blindness and sensitive stomachs. I don't mind taking care of the easy ones, but for anyone who needs someone with extra experience - I can help.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have a very special place in my heart for Old Dog Haven and everything they do for our senior angels. They have their annual fundraiser coming up on July 16th, 2022 in Shoreline. I love to help ODH whenever I can.
I also volunteer online to raise funds for Aberdeen Scottish Terrier Rescue ASTR out of Renton, WA. We have online auctions thru Facebook quite often and I always donate items and time towards artwork postings & payment processing. Our last auction was just this past July (2022) and it was a terrific success!
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Watch how the person you are going to hire gets along with your dog in a public place. First meet & greets are very telling. If things go well then meet at the dog's house (your place). These steps are really important to make sure your dog is going to have the best experience while you're gone. Have a list of your dog's routine, and make sure to have a blanket ready to leave with them that has your scent on it. I am a great fit for dog parents who treat their dogs like human children because that's how I treat my own dog(s).
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
How does your dog get along with other dogs? What is their experience walking on-leash? Wearing a harness? Eating or drinking around other dogs? Does it sleep in a bed on the floor or on your bed with you? Is it crate trained? Potty trained? Are all its shots up to date and is it taking any medications? Do you use a flea treatment on a regular basis?