[ därmə ] : noun
An individual’s calling, duty, or life purpose
For me, living according to my dharma means doing what I’m inherently good at — what lights me up. It’s different for everybody, and it doesn’t always look “normal,” but it’s the path that we know is right for us.
Dogs are part of my dharma.
I don’t have to be a dog sitter — I want to be a dog sitter. I think dogs (and their humans) can feel the difference!
With the exception of extremely high energy dogs, I’m open to just about all different breeds, ages, and personalities.
Here are a few of my specialties:
Special Needs
Whether it's behavioral issues, dietary requirements, separation anxiety, or other personality quirks, your dog(s) will feel welcome and loved.
Attachment to You
If your dog has a hard time opening up to new people, or even if you think there's no way they wouldn't miss you the whole time — give me a try, this is my specialty!
Senior Dogs
I have a huge soft spot for older dogs. My house does have some stairs, but I can safely carry dogs up to 75 pounds if their mobility is compromised.
Training
I'm happy to give them a little refresher on their "sits," "stays," and "shakes" if you'd like!
Giving Oral Meds
I will make sure they stay on their daily vitamin or medication schedule (if they have one).
I don't want to waste your time, so let me be upfront about a couple important
Boarding Limitations
My backyard is not fenced
There’s a beautiful grassy area in the backyard, but unfortunately it’s not fenced. It’s a great place for potty and walks, but not a great place for fetch or off-leash play.
I always keep dogs leashed when we’re walking (unless your dog can come on command reliably and you give me the okay), so rest assured that they will always be very safe under my care.
I can't board super high energy dogs
As much as I love dogs with lots of energy, they’re difficult for me to accommodate without a fenced yard. Occasional bursts of zoomies (that we can do inside or at a dog park) are totally fine — but if your dog needs a lot of frequent exercise, I’m probably not the right fit.
With that being said, low or medium energy dogs are absolutely welcome here. As long as they’re happy with light activity, relaxation, or a combination of both, they should do great.
My house has some stairs
My house has a couple small sets of stairs (no more than 7 steps at a time). So if you have a very large dog in their golden years with mobility issues, I might not be the right fit.
However, I am able to safely carry dogs up to 75 pounds up and down the stairs if they (and you!) are comfortable with that. (I did this daily with my 15 year old Lab/Pyrenees mix before she passed.)
Unfortunately I’m not going to be the best fit for all the dogs out there.
But for low- to medium-energy dogs who are able to walk up and down stairs easily, I think I’m a pretty great option!
I love dogs SO much.
I’ve had my own for most of my life, and I’ve also been the go-to dog sitter for friends and family for over 20 years. I’m so happy to now be able to offer my services to more people.
As much as I love what I do, I also take my responsibility very seriously — you’re trusting me with a part of your family! My goal is to offer the best of both worlds: responsibility, attention to detail, and a very high standard of care, but also all the love and belly scratches they could possibly want.
I’m truly grateful for every single dog that I get to meet and take care of.
They light up my life, and I try to do the same for them.
I can’t wait to meet yours! 🙂
