Animals have always been a huge part of my life, and caring for them is something I truly love. I am an American international student currently studying Animal Ecology at UniSC on a pre-veterinary pathway, with the goal of becoming a wildlife veterinarian. Throughout my life, I have been surrounded by animals. I grew up with dogs and spent years caring for horses. I have developed a deep understanding of how much trust owners place in someone looking after their pets.

My professional animal care experience comes from completing a veterinary internship earlier this summer at a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in the Peruvian Amazon. Working alongside veterinarians, I gained hands-on experience with both wildlife and domestic animals, including dogs and cats. I was trained in basic animal care, health monitoring, recognizing warning signs of illness or changes in behaviour, observing eating habits, supporting recovery routines, and providing attentive care for elderly dogs. I learned how important small details are, especially with senior animals; changes in appetite, energy levels, mobility, bathroom habits, or personality can all provide valuable insight into their wellbeing.

During my internship, I also cared for infant woolly monkeys requiring intensive daily attention. This included gentle handling, preparing specialized diets, bottle feeding, monitoring development and behaviour, maintaining clean environments, and assisting with medication routines under veterinary guidance. I became comfortable caring for animals that require patience, consistency, and careful observation, including preparing and administering prescribed medications according to veterinary instructions. While I am not a veterinarian and cannot perform veterinary procedures, I am confident in providing basic care and following an owner's established medication routine after receiving clear instructions.

At home, I have grown up caring for dogs and currently have two miniature schnauzers who are part of my family. I have also had experience with larger dog breeds, so I am comfortable with dogs of different sizes, personalities, and energy levels. I especially enjoy caring for senior dogs, puppies, anxious pets, and animals who need extra patience and reassurance. I understand that every pet has their own routine, communication style, and comfort level, and I take the time to build trust with each animal.

I offer dog walking, home visits, and overnight pet sitting within approximately a 10km range of my home, including the Sunshine Coast coastal area and nearby suburbs. During visits, I can provide walks, feeding, fresh water, playtime, enrichment, companionship, basic grooming, cleaning up after pets, and careful monitoring of your pet's health and behaviour. I am happy to follow detailed care instructions and maintain your pet's normal routine while you are away.

My goal is to give every pet the same level of care, attention, and respect I would want someone to give my own animals. I know how important it is for owners to feel confident leaving their pets with someone else, and I aim to provide reliable, compassionate care that gives both pets and their owners peace of mind.