Katrina

Hello!

About me

I'm in my early 30s, work in consulting, and have been a dog-lover for as long as I remember. When I was younger, I would read a dog breed book for fun. I would also pretend to be walking a dog on lead to convince my parents to get a dog of our own... It worked eventually and we got our beloved Shih Tzu, Muffin, who sadly passed away at 16 years old in late 2022 :'(

Experience

I've walked dogs for the Cinnamon Trust - a charity that pairs up dog walkers with dog owners who have mobility challenges. Both were rescues: one was a fun Beagle x Cavalier, and the other was a senior, sweet Border Terrier. They both got anxious and bark-y, of loud noises, and other dogs respectively. If your dog has anything they get upset by, I'm always mindful of this and will distract them towards something else.

I have also boarded dogs in my home - a range of breeds and sizes, including a Bichon x Toy Poodle; an Australian Kelpie; and a Labradoodle.

Where your pet would stay

I live in a 2nd floor small flat in Sydenham (opposite the Overground / Southern rail station).

I have recently had to install brand new carpets, so it would be important that they're well toilet trained, as I'd like to avoid accidents!

I work from home 9-6 most days - taking breaks every couple hours through the day so I can take the dogs out or play with them.

I live with my partner who grew up with dogs and is the only other person who lives with me. We'll make sure one of us is always in. It is on a quiet no through road (free roadside parking)

Dogs would sleep in the open plan lounge/kitchen with access to water/food as needed.

There's no garden however I have a flexible work schedule so can pop out frequently. I have 2 local parks (Mayow park and Alexandra Rec park) several mins walk away.

My services:

I will happily board 2 dogs if from the same household.

As noted above, I don't have a garden so please be aware they will need to be used to only going out for the toilet every couple hours!

I'm able to discuss house sitting options. Note, I don't have a car so wouid need a lift, or be able to travel easily via train/bus (unless it's a longer stay of more than 2 nights)

I can offer oral medication if needed. In terms of basic grooming I am happy to brush them having done this daily with my shih tzu back at home.

I can support with basic training (eg. Sit, stay, lie down, shake paw)

I also offer dog walking if you are within walking distance or a short bus ride. Happy to chat to discuss duration and frequency of walks required.

Thanks for reading & look forward to hearing from you! Please do reach out with any questions at all.

Katrina