LESLEY

Why this non-smoking, energetic but laid-back retiree is the house and pet sitter for YOU...
6 GOOD REASONS

1. COMPANIONSHIP: I'm a “stay-at-home” sitter, basically... meaning that, while I might enjoy brief outings to local attractions, my priority is keeping your pet(s) company!

2. SENSITIVITY: I do not leave your pets at all for at least the first few days, so that they can adjust to your absence (and to my presence) without undue stress. I also preserve their familiar routines as much as possible.

3. COMMITMENT: If there were any doubt about my ability or availability to care for your home/pets during your entire absence, I would decline the assignment. Once I commit, I don't quit!

4. COMMUNICATION: I communicate with you as often as you like and keep a journal for you of your pet's Sitter Adventure.

5. RESPECT: You'll come home to a clean house, fresh bed linens, and everything just as you left it. I don't rearrange your stuff but simply live "on top of" or "around" it.

6. Last but not least... EXPERIENCE! In 9 years on the road as a full-time sitter, I've cared for about 40 different homes and their resident dogs, cats, and/or birds.

-- PET EXPERIENCE --
Many rescues with issues such as separation anxiety and leash or food aggression. Some very senior pets (an 18-year-old feline, for example); others disabled, deaf, blind, diabetic, or incontinent.

Multiple-pet homes. Two dogs and two cats - not uncommon. In one home, I had 7 cats... some allowed outside, others not; some on special diets. Plus, feral cats to be fed. The first day there, I made a chart for the fridge to keep track of who's who.

I've given lots of pills, eye and ear drops, and injections - and I'm careful to give meds on time, every time.

In managing behavior, I use only positive reinforcement; I understand the importance of consistency with obedience and crate training.

-- HOUSE EXPERIENCE --
Primarily urban (preferred) and suburban / metro... ranging from a three-story Victorian house to a tiny studio in New York City (where I lived for 15 years).

I have mowed lawns, weeded flower beds, watered house plants, raked leaves, and shoveled snow. At one sit, I had 30+ plants, all on different regimens. (Plants were far more work than the dog!)

Clients have counted on me to monitor business mail, deposit checks, relay messages, transmit documents, and assist with household affairs as needed.

-- HANDLING EMERGENCIES --
On three occasions, I've had to take a pet to Veterinary Emergency: a dog vomiting blood, a senior dog with trouble breathing, and a diabetic cat who became lethargic. All were soon well again, thanks to timely intervention!

Then there was the silly golden retriever who decided to swallow a small rubber ball. The vet told me that I had to induce vomiting... fortunately, that did the trick.

As for household emergencies: I've had to summon a plumber (more than once); get a boiler replaced; get a lawnmower repaired; reprogram a lawn irrigation system; troubleshoot Internet issues, etc, etc. Amazing what comes up when homeowners are away!

-- WHAT PETS HAVE TAUGHT ME ABOUT BEING A SITTER --
"With a little patience and cajoling, most of us dogs and cats are willing to negotiate bed space so we can sleep with you."
(I haven't yet had to say "no" - except when pet insisted on sharing my pillow. There, I do draw the line.)

"When we're used to a busy household, especially with young children, we might get "the blues" after a while... too quiet when it's just you here with us!"
(So, I watch for this and give dogs extra walks or playtime as needed. I also know games to teach bored dogs... cats, too, plus maybe a new toy.)

"The sooner we get into a predictable routine with you, the sooner we'll relax and trust you."
(So, for the first few days, I focus on adapting to your pet's sleep, feeding, and activity routines.)

-- COMMENTS FROM CLIENTS --
A number of homeowners have reported finding their pet noticeably more calm and relaxed after their time with me. I believe this is because I'm good at relating to cats and dogs on their own terms, with no unrealistic or unfair expectations of them. Some cats don't like being picked up, for instance. That's fine... no pressure, and I won't be offended ;)

Some pet parents are still singing my praises for teaching their exuberant pups to stay out from under foot in the kitchen!