Jane

I'm a hobbyist petsitter in my forties who grew up on a farm and who often works from home (50/50). I've been around animals all my life, and I offer a safe, comfortable and clean home environment which is suitable for cats, and dogs that are compatible with apartment living (i.e. housetrained and not prone to multiple accidents, and not overly vocal). I can host unhousetrained puppies only for short term stays, weekdays only, for an additional fee. When I am in the office there is another dog lover at home at times throughout the day, so your dog won't go without company and a toilet break for any longer than six hours at a time (usually a lot less). Because I pet sit as a hobby rather than a living, you won't find me hosting animals from more than two families at a time like you might with other sitters, and I'm quite comfortable if you prefer that your pet is my only guest for the duration of their stay. All animals sleep inside in a comfortable environment and they are cared for as if they are my own with lots of cuddles and attention. I have a balcony that is suitable for most dogs to wander out onto but I do limit cats to inside, safe and sound. I can also use my building's big grassed backyard for play time. I am near several parks if you need your dog exercised, including one off leash park, Saint Thomas Rest Park. 

I can also pet sit at your place on the Northern Beaches or Lower North Shore and do home drop-ins for feeding, maintenance and a bit of love. I'm happy to help with training if you want to let me know what we're currently working on!

I have plenty of time for dog walks and playtime and will take your dog on errands and outings with me when possible and safe. 

I'm also experienced in managing diabetes in pets (insulin injections), older pets and pets with medical issues. I have a car so getting your animal to the vet in an emergency situation is covered.  

My rates do not include food or kitty litter however I'm happy to include these in my shopping for your reimbursement. Each night of hosting booked is for 24 hours or less and I have doggy day care and dog walking (half an hour or more) open for clients who need to add these services onto an overnight booking. If you would like your dog to have a wash, dry and brush during their stay please book in grooming (N.B. this won't include a trim! Although I will trim cats' claws if they are too long, for the protection of members of my household and my belongings.).

Whilst I don't want to fill up my profile with T&Cs, after having a terrible experience with a lack of support from Pawshake with a greyhound that was clearly not housetrained at all (despite being described as such), I have to state that I will charge $60 a day additional for so-called "housetrained" dogs that do repeated accidents in my apartment despite being taken outside regularly - this covers supplies and cleaning.

I have a little Birman cat called Henry. Henry likes having visitors and is a kind, inquisitive and playful host to all dogs and cats. He is loves to socialise and play! I can however keep Henry separated from guest pets if and when needed, and will only do any introductions once the guest pet has settled in.