Danielle’s Dog Sitting @ Stockport

From a young age I have lived with dogs as well as having plenty in the family. On occasion, this has meant four dogs around the Christmas dinner table! From dachshunds and terriers to English setter and labs, there’s no other company I’d rather have had growing up. Nowadays I have two Labrador retrievers. As they’re getting older (9 and 11) they don’t require quite as much attention as they did in their chaotic years. Nevertheless, I find it enjoyable to be able to take them out for their short walks in the morning and evening. However, due to age the short walks are all they can manage. I have a keen interest in photography so I find the dogs are a perfect way to get out into some beautiful places. I would love to continue this but only with the woofers who won’t be stiff and out of breath by the end!
As previously mentioned, I have two Labrador retrievers. Bess the youngest is 9 and Mackenzie the eldest is 11. In their younger years they could cause quite a riot stealing shoes, chewing things etc. But with some good advice and training they’re no problem at all. Only problem is dog hairs everywhere! I spend most of the time cleaning up after them rather than entertaining - they’re big sleepers. Bess is a brilliant retriever and loves the outdoors which makes a difference to Mac who refuses to go near water or do anything remotely exercising at all. It’s sad to see them age but it’s been the biggest joy of my life watching their character shine and giving them the happy loving home all dogs deserve!
I have previous experience of caring for dogs through working in a kennels when I was younger. This meant conducting daily tasks such as; feeding, walking, playing, health checks, vet calls and most importantly comforting. This experience developed a huge love of mine for dogs. I take great interest in paying attention to their hints and signs of what they need as well as just acknowledging when they may like some attention (a bit like us humans sometimes). As I have the time to give this wholeheartedly I am passionate about continuing this in my own way. Perhaps in a more homely setting!
I throughly enjoy this work because I think all dogs have a personality just like us. Each dog has something special to give and there’s always one moment that is very rewarding when caring for a dog. Perhaps when they give you that photographic grin that you can’t help but laugh at! Or playing round the garden seeing them enjoy the fun too. As I have grown up with dogs in all aspects of my family, having a dog around always makes me feel at home so I suppose a part of it is comforting to me too.

Skills and qualifications

Basic understanding of how to manage and care for pet

Experience in training

Able to recognise subtle signs of a problem