Mike

I'm in my mid-50s and keen to develop my work with animals. I've had a career as a journalist with the BBC for more than 30 years, and I'm now looking for a fresh challenge with something else I really enjoy and care passionately about. I've decided that new challenge will be helping take care of people's beloved dogs. I've had my own family spaniel for almost nine years now, and I love spending time with him. I have also looked after other peoples' dogs, both in their own homes and picking them up for walks and returning them after, and I enjoy the responsibility and the satisfaction of knowing that I've given a dog a really happy experience. It's a position of great trust, and I really appreciate an owner placing their faith in me to look after their dog. It's an incredible privilege. I'm going to have a lot more time on my hands in future, so I want to put that time to good use. I know there is high demand for people who can put as much love and care into dogs as their owners do, and I really feel I can do that. I have a lot of flexibility during the week and at weekends, so I'm more than happy to talk about any arrangement which suits owners.

We have a four bedroomed home in Ascot in Berkshire which has plenty of space. We also have great walking spaces nearby, including Windsor Great Park with the lovely Virginia Water Lake and also Sunninghill Park. 

We can administer any oral medication your dogs need. We are happy to entertain them with games when they need occupying, but equally we know when they need to be left alone for some rest!

When it comes to boarding, we would rather only board one dog at a time. For walking, two at a time is our preference. We want to be able to give each dog the love and attention they deserve, and we don't think that's always possible when dogs are being walked in packs of half a dozen.

We  tailor our walks to what's most comfortable for your dog. We are careful not to exercise animals in extreme heat (not a common experience in the UK we know!) so we will walk early morning and later in the evening if the day is really hot. Pads can get burned on hot pavements.

We can walk for as long or short as you like! Our Monty is used to lovely walks round Virginia Water Lake in Surrey, which is 4.5 miles, but we understand if that might be too far for your dog. We happily design walks to fit the subject!

We usually work on the basis of two decent walks a day, in the morning and evening. But we are very flexible and can provide what's best for your dog.

We won't leave an animal alone while they are in our care. There will always be someone at home with them.

We are not distracted by other work when we have your dog in our care - they are our top priority.