Retired, active, reliable, and raised a guide dog

About this sitter

My parents raised and showed Kerry Blue Terriers when I was young followed by a doberman through my teenage years. As an adult a Norwegian Elkhound was my companion for 16 years and later I rescued two lab mix puppies. I also helped my middle school-aged daughter raise a guide dog for the blind puppy. That dog subsequently went on to guide in Toronto Canada.
Also as a kid and adult I had a number of cats. I enjoy playful and cuddly felines.
I have been a full-time pet and house sitter for most of the past three years. Virtually all of my home owners have asked me for follow up sittings and many I now consider friends.
I am very active and athletic and am most comfortable with energetic dogs that like to go on long hikes, cross country ski outings, or shorter mountain bike rides.
I expect and reenforce basic discipline for any dog that is on or off leash. Most of all I give praise and affection liberally.
I have no problem giving dogs pills, clipping nails, brushing, or training.
I have owned several homes and know how to fix most anything that commonly might need attention in your house. At the end of the sitting, I will leave your house cleaner than when I arrived.

Why they want to house sit

I enjoy exploring new areas, towns, trails, and communities. I don't currently have a dog or cat, but love being with them so this is an opportunity to borrow one for a while.

Their experience

I have pet sat in houses for most of the past three years for nearly 30 friends, friends of friends, and mostly for total strangers. I have a perfect 5-star review on trustedhousesitters.com and have been asked by every client and friend to sit for subsequent dates.

What can they bring to the assignment

I have always, until recently, had my own dog and often a cat as well.
I know how to train dogs and have raised a guide dog for the blind. My approach is exercise, discipline, and praise. I love to see a dog run and will give them as much freedom that they can responsibly handle.
I have owned many houses and I will respect yours. I know how to correct most home repair issues and am willing to do so with your permission. I have lived in the mountain west for most of 40 years, so I know snow, fire, bears, and the joy of mountain trails.
Finally, I will leave your house as clean or cleaner than you left it.