Are you ready to take a vacation, but stuck wondering what to do with your precious pets? It’s hard, especially with multiple animals. As much as we love our animals, sometimes they can be furry little anchors. Boarding can be cost prohibitive, stressful for the animals (and you!), and a logistical challenge. The easiest solution is to have someone stay with them in your home. Your pets get to stay where they are comfortable and stick to their routine. When you get home, your furry family members are happy and waiting for you - no extra chore of having to pick them up. It’s hard to find someone who is able to do this and whom you can trust, though.

I started dog sitting by occasionally helping out friends. I quickly began getting more and more inquiries from folks struggling to find someone. It’s now turned into a business that keeps me quite busy! I have the flexibility in my life to be able to help you live yours. While most pet sitting companies offer overnight service, arriving in the evening and leaving first thing in the morning, I offer live-in service. I don’t have dogs of my own right now, so yours are my only focus. I also don’t have another job to go to, so when I’m staying with your pets, I am there nearly all of the time. This means they get lots of love and attention! It is so gratifying to help families take trips together (sometimes for the first time in years!), with the assurance of knowing their pets are well cared for.

I’ve been involved with Saving Paws Rescue, a local German Shepherd Dog and Belgian Malinois rescue, for the past 6 years, both as a volunteer and an employee. This is a rescue that takes many medical dogs, so I have quite a bit of experience taking care of sick, injured, and senior dogs. I’ve also taken a pet CPR course. Due to my involvement with the rescue, I do end up watching quite a few German Shepherds, but I love all breeds and animals! I have also watched cats, guinea pigs, mini horses and even a hedgehog!

So what does it cost?

Live-in pet sitting: $145/day is the minimum charge for up to two dogs/pets. There is an additional charge for more animals, depending on how many and what kind. This fee includes everything - walks, lots of snuggles and playtime, poop pick up, or administering medications, if necessary. Additionally, you get a house sitter! I also take care of the basics such as taking out the trash, watering plants, or checking the mail and bringing in packages. While you are away, I will send a daily update on how everyone is doing. I will gladly provide more frequent updates, if you prefer, and you are welcome to check in anytime.

I do a complimentary visit ahead of time so we can all meet and I can get instructions. I’m also happy to provide references. The above rates are for the Phoenix area. For elsewhere in Arizona or out of state, contact me directly to get a quote.

Cancellation Policy: Since scheduling jobs precludes me from taking other work, unfortunately I do need to charge a cancellation fee in some cases. If you need to cancel a stay within a month of the scheduled start date, the fee is 50% of the total for the stay. If the job is cancelled within two weeks of the start date, the charge is 100% of the stay.

Our pets are cherished family members and I’m always grateful when someone trusts me with their pets and their home. I truly appreciate it and treat your pets like they are my own. Please feel free to contact me with any questions: coolleashes@gmail.com or 602-363-4561.