Dee (Donella)

Thank you for taking the time to read my profile and for considering placing your trust in me to take care of your precious fur baby/babies.

These biographies are most difficult to write. One doesn't want to bore the reader by being too lengthy, but in the same token information is necessary in making an informed decision. Having twice utilised pet sitting services in the past, I especially understand how difficult it is to choose someone to care for your precious pups. It's not easy to trust a perfect stranger. 

Which is why I want to offer my services to my fellow pet owners and travellers. Sure, the extra income would come in handy, but for me it's about offering pet parents all the things I looked for when I was going through this process; a home away from home that is welcoming, quiet, calm (yet stimulating), and safe; a place where the carer showers love onto their charges as if they are their own. 

Our pets don't understand why they're all of a sudden in a strange place, with strange people, and often strange pets. My goal is for your baby to go through the least amount of stress, and ultimately, have enjoyed his or her stay with me. This is specifically why I'm only offering my services to one client at a time (school holidays excepted), ensuring your pupper/s receive the attention they deserve. Think of me as 'Grandma' who spoils her grandkids, yet strictly adheres to 'Mum and Dad's' instructions. 

I could write lots and lots about myself, but if you're like me, the only way to really learn is to meet a prospective sitter; observe, and ask questions. Do I have a rapport with this person? Is there genuine love for animals or is it just a job? And above all, does my dog like this person and like their pet/s too? You may go through this process several times before you find one that is 'just right'; that instinctive thing. And of course, I would love that to be me.

FYI...

- active 63 year old, semi-retired and very much a homebody 

- currently utilising my science degree in Food Science and Nutrition in developing human food-grade treats for dogs

- former federal law enforcement officer of 10 years

- lifetime experience with cats and dogs, plus 3 years fostering dogs with PAA and Animals-In-Need, Brisbane, ranging from litters of puppies to disabled seniors

- much experience in administering oral and topical medications

- strong understanding of pet dietary requirements

- passionate environmentalist and native bird watcher/carer

- for stays over 14 days rates may be discounted. The discounted rate will depend on the number of dogs, and if there are any special needs eg medications to be administered, special feeding requirements etc. We can negotiate such during our meet and greet.

- PLEASE NOTE: It is my policy that 'per night' constitutes a 24 hour period that begins from the time you drop off your pet/s on day 1 and ends at the same time on the final day. If you are unable to collect your pet/s at (or around) the same time as the drop-off time there will be an additional charge of another nights stay. Does not apply for stays of 7 nights or more (peak periods eg Xmas, excepted).

Doggy day care constitutes a maximum of 8 hours per day. If over that time then the charge will increase to the 24 hour rate.

About my property...

- low set house in quiet neighbourhood

- fully enclosed but small backyard, with 6 ft fences and locked gates

- swimming pool (note - dogs are not allowed in the pool unless I'm in it and with parents permission)

- pet door open throughout the night

- no restrictions on where dogs can sleep ie furniture, beds etc

Proviso...

- Your dog/s must be toilet trained 

- Your dog/s must be desexed, fully vaccinated, and on parasite prevention including ticks and heartworm. Please bring desexing and vax certificates for sighting during the meet and greet

- Please provide your pupper's main meals, and I will provide all the treats (with your permission, of course) for stays of 5 days and over

- If your dog is in need of major behaviour/toilet training, I am not the sitter for you. I ask that you tell me upfront if there are issues. Your dog may behave well at home but not necessarily in a strange environment. 

The meet and greet process...

- We will meet (without my dog) at or near my local dog park at a time of your choosing (I'm very flexible). I do this for security reasons. As much as this is an interview of me and my fitness for the job, the reverse is also true. I need to be careful about who I allow access to my home

- It's also the perfect place for me and your pup/s to be introduced. I'm a firm believer in trusting a dog's instincts... they know when a human is 'good'. If your pup is comfortable with me from the very start then that goes along way in assuaging your fears.

- I have a questionnaire that I go though with you. This gives me the opportunity to learn more about your dog/s. I ask about feeding, dietery requirements, behaviour, and techniques you use, etc, so that if you book I have all the information you need me to know. 

- Assuming all is proceeding well, we then take the short walk to my home. We enter via the garage out to the patio area so that your dog can sniff and recognise other canine odours whilst we parents discuss the details. It's also the opportunity for Poppy (my dog) to come outside to check out the new visitor/s. She has opportunity to return inside via the pet door if she needs to. When I feel that she is comfortable we will then go inside. This way I can be assured my precious girl isn't overwhelmed.

- In order for the process to run as smoothly and as calmly as possible I ask that meet and greets are limited to a max of 2 persons in my home (no children under age 12). Thanks for your understanding.

Should you proceed to booking me then closer to the date of arrival I'll resend a similar questionnaire (things can change since our meet n greet). I'll also send you a checklist of everything you will bring for the stay (both to print out or email) eg, bedding, bowls, toys, etc. I make sure all is there on the day of arrival and you make sure all goes home with you (sans food, of course).

I know this is all much to take in. But I want everything to be as smooth as possible so I can provide the best care for your dog/s. Knowledge is always key.