Declan

Hi everyone

My name is Declan. I'm Irish, but have been living in London for 13 years. I'm still a renter, so not in a position to have a dog of my own, as much as I would love to (I even have my first dog's name picked out: Jed. As in Jed Barklett, in honour of Martin Sheen's character in The West Wing). So until as such time as I can have my own dog, I'm happy if not eager to help other people look after their doggos.

How much do I love dogs? Well, my life mantras is: "Dogs welcome, humans tolerated". I just adore them. Every dog I've had the pleasure of getting to know and mind has brought me so much happiness. I think what I love most about them is that few other things will keep you living in the moment and focused on something other than your stupid self than a dog. They just want to be with you, and play, and walk, and eat, and cuddle. They ask for so little and give so, so much in return. 

On top of loving dogs, my living situation recently changed too; I had been living alone while I worked in tech (RIP), but since that all went sideways, I'm back living in a houseshare with some friends while working Mon-Thurs in a comms role in the public sector. I cherish my free time, so getting to housesit while also having a dog for company is the dream. Fridays are ostensibly given over to time to write (yes, I'm an aspiring/frustrated writer), so the alone time is extra special, plus long walks with furry buddies help get the creative juices pumping. A little extra cash is always welcome too, I'm not going to lie!

I have a LOT of dog minding experience. I started out as the regular minder/sitter for friends who have a dog, especially single dog owners. I know how much work it is to have a dog so I am always eager to help out. I now have at least five regulars just from my extended friend group, and have been hired as a house and dogsitter (through TrustedHousesitters) for four more. I have experience with dogs of all ages, sizes and temperaments - my newest bud is only 3 months old. 

I've only ever has good reviews from people for my dogsitting, and my repeat bookings are testament to that! I'm so looking forward to getting to know some more dogs and providing their humans with the peace of mind that their beloved pet and their home is in a safe pair of hands.

LGBTQIA+ friendly.