Sinéad

We were going away and had dog care arranged through a family member, however one week before our holiday, we were let down. I googled many local dog boarding places but as you can imagine a week before they were fully booked. I then stumbled across pawshake and so signed up.

I found Sinèad, she seemed like a real animal lover from her profile and she was available, plus only a 5 minute drive away - perfect.

We arranged a meet and greet - Sinead was very pleasant, answered our questions and asked us about our rules regarding our dog on furniture etc - because she liked the home from home experience and happy for him to fully roam around.

Sinead confirmed she'd be happy to look after our dog but I didn't feel pressured to book with her.

I booked a 5 night stay and we had family either side. We explained to Sinead that family would do the drop off and collection which wasn't a problem.

The stay itself - Sinead sent photos and messaged to confirm his arrival and sent daily photos throughout his stay.

Many of the photos we're taken inside and one outside on a walk. Our dog was wearing his harness in most photos - but Sinead explained she did take it off but helped with toileting and opening her door etc. It was nothing major but an observation we had.

Sinead told us that Toby had settled well and often told us he was being good (he's a 2 year old cocker spaniel so he can often be a bit cheeky and playful so I worried someone else may find him too naughty)

We had never left him with anyone outside of family or friends, so I was very anxious about leaving him in a strange place and new person. It is difficult to know fully from photos alone, and it would have helped my nerves abit more if we had some added communication regarding his walks or general day to day play, but on the whole he did seem to be settled and made himself comfy on the sofa.

Collection was as agreed and Sinead messaged to confirm that Toby had been collected and also mentioned his food was running low, which was fine as I'd only given enough for his stay. Sinèad also kindly offered to drop round his dog bed the following day, as my sister had her little one and doesn't drive and thought it would be easier.

Overall, our first dog care experience was easy to book, straightforward with tracked communication and a pleasant experience.

Would I use Sinèad again - yes.

Thank you for looking after Toby 🐾

Sinéad was great! This is the first time we have left our cat and kittens with a sitter and Sinéad made us feel very relaxed about the whole thing 😊 Getting regular updates really put my mind at ease and meant we could have a great weekend with worrying about them