Meet The Sitters

Carrollton

Resident Pets

We welcomed Tucker into our family in January of 2015.  We were only going to foster him until he found his forever home.  We fell in love with him!  Since then, we have enjoyed fostering several puppies and getting them into loving homes.

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you’ve have with an animal?

The funniest thing is when our dog gets the “zoomies” and he runs around the coffee table in the living room!  There’s no stopping him so we just get out of the way.

What is your ultimate goal in life?

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Irving

Resident Pets

I have two cute black cats named Kitty and Emerald, but we call her Emi for short. I have had them for about four years and they are truly a blessing in my life. They have brought so much happiness into my life and I adore them both so much! Kitty is a wild, hyper, extremely loving cat. She also lays on her back while looking at me and it’s just the funniest thing! Emi on the other hand, is more relaxed and calm but, can get very hyper as well when they are playing with each other around the house. They make me a very proud mom!

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you’ve have with an animal?

One of the funniest moments with my Kitty is that she gets very hyper and randomly does side flips off the wall! It always catches me by surprise and is always out of the blue! I never seen a cat do that before and it looks exactly like a move I’ve seen from a karate movie!

Why do you love working with animals?

What I love the most about working with animals is growing trust and connections with them. When I go to walk a dog and I see how excited the dog is when they see me walking up to the door. It makes me feel so good that I’m giving pets a time that they enjoy. It makes me feel proud and gives me so much fulfillment that I have given an animal a time of happiness and excitement. That’s my most favorite thing!

What is your ultimate goal in life?

I would love to live by the beach, travel the world and experience different cultures, have a happy marriage and raise a family, get a masters degree, be able to speak a couple different languages, become an expert violinist, be able to do pet sitting as a full-time job because it is the best job I’ve ever had!

Frisco

Resident Pets

I currently have three dogs:

Honey (7 year old Golden Retriever)
Izzy (6 year old Cairn terrier mix)
Lucy (2 year old Aussie/Golden mix)
Through the years, our family members have included goldfish, a turtle, hamsters, hermit crabs, and bunnies. I have fostered over 100 puppies for local shelters, and look forward to starting a new chapter by serving our VIPs.

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you’ve have with an animal?

My favorite memories of our pets are with our dog, Honey. She’s a Golden Retriever and loved “practicing” baseball with my boys. She always played outfielder, catching the ball when the boys batted, and bringing it in to home plate. I also love swimming with her, she tries to race me across the pool.

Why do you love working with animals?

What I love most about working with animals is the sheer joy that they bring to my heart.

What is your ultimate goal in life?

My ultimate goals in life are to see my teenage sons grow to be kind and loving men, and to own so much land that I can foster any animal in need that comes my way.

McKinney

Resident Pets

Pictured is me with my cat Goose. My roommate and I co-parent Goose, who we adopted together from a shelter in the College Station area. Some of Goose’s favorite things to do is to nap and play with her toy mouse. I got my dog, Dixie, for my 19th birthday. Dixie’s favorite thing to do is take her tennis ball to the top of our stair case and drop it down the stairs to retrieve the ball. She could do this for hours if we let her! I’ve also had lambs, pigs, and rabbits before college through FFA.

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you’ve have with an animal?

One of the most memorable moment I’ve had with one of my animals was with Goose. During the first week of having Goose, she had managed to squeeze herself in between our dishwasher and cabinet. My roommate had heard her meowing, but couldn’t find her. It took my roommates and I about an hour before we could get her out.

Why do you love working with animals?

What I love about working with animals is that they’re all different. Some may be more lazy or more playful. I’ve had animals my whole life and I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else.

What is your ultimate goal in life?

My ultimate goal in life is to own a herd of sheep and raise show lambs for students to show. After completing my undergraduate degree in Animal Science at Texas A&M, I plan to attend Veterinary School and specialize in Small Ruminate Medicine and Surgery.

City of Dallas, Lakewood

Resident Pets

​Riley is an American Foxhound mix according to the DNA test, but looks like a Bassett/ yellow Lab mix. She is 2 1/2 years old and was adopted in May 2012 from the Texas Dog Etc. Rescue.
Miles is a Fox Terrier mix, according to the DNA test, but looks like a Corgi/ Terrier mix. He is 2 1/2 years old and was adopted in May 2012 from the Humane Society of Dallas County.

What I enjoy most about my job?

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I find pet-sitting to be very rewarding. It is important that my clients feel their pets are left in responsible, loving care. Animals are like people in that they need a sense of security, and keeping their routine offers security. It allows my clients the peace of mind that their pets are well taken care of in their absence.

What our pet friends teach us
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While our cats and dogs can’t talk, their unconditional love for us can not just improve our lives, but also teaches us to become better partners to our fellow humans. They teach us patience and commitment. My pets are a part of my life that I value everyday.

Plano

Resident Pets
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I am a wife,  mother of three wonderful children and owner of an awesome dog named Kodiak.

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?

We just moved from Alaska so we had to give him a Alaskan name.  He is such a sweet boy. He likes to pounce like a cat when he chases a ball.

Why do you love working with animals?
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Each animal has it’s own wonderful personality. I love animals and the joy they bring to peoples life and the joy we bring to theirs.

What is your ultimate goal in life?

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Rafa

Resident Pets
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I currently have 2 pets, both cats, Rafa (named after Rafa Nadal), who is a Tuxedo, 11 years old, and then Louie, 2 years old, big and getter bigger, Orange fluffy tabby.

My cats before: James, who died January 2018, at 18, He had diabetes from 16-18, so those last 2 years he got 2 shots a day of insulin. Rafa came when James was 10, so he made James (nicknamed Rudy) a much younger version of himself.

James we got in 2000, and at that time had Quista, short for Conquistador. Black cat, one of my favs. He liked to leave birds on my front steps, much to my neighbors’ chagrin. He was kidnapped over a Halloween period, never to be seen again. Before Quista, I had Corey, short for Chickory, who was a genuine Bulls-Eye Tabby. Corey would chase paper balls and bring them back to me. He died from a malignant tumor in his brain at the age of 6.

Before Corey, there was Cooper, or Joey as I called him, who I had brought down from Illinois in ‘83. He was a beautiful Chocolate Milk fluffy tabby. He almost died a couple of times from Feline Urologic Syndrome, but he lived to 10 – he happened to die at the Pet Sitters/Kennel. Never used another Kennel again.My first cat was Clark, a big orange cat, I got as a kitten from the guys at my boyfriend’s college house.

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?
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I’ve had some many memorable times, but one that really sticks out is when Cooper was a baby and ran up a tree, a biiigg oak tree, and a friend of mine had to use his fireman’s ladder to get him down.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

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I’ve been an active volunteer at the Animal Shelter and work a lot with taking care of friends’ animals.

Why do you love working with animals?

I love working with animals because they like to play, do not complain, and are game for anything.

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

My pets think I Rock and Rule, more Rock

Dallas

Resident Pets
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Reggie is a gray Wire-Haired terrier that my family adopted from a shelter in 6th grade. He has been part of my family for so long I cannot imagine my life without him. He is a very smart dog! My other dog is Tony. I am really not sure what type of breed he is. He has the colorings and looks of a Yorkshire terrier but he is BIG. Like nearly 20 pounds!! He is about 4 years old, a total lap dog and likes to eat EVERYTHING even if it is not food.

What I enjoy most about my job?

The most recent job I had was delivering Amazon.com packages to customers in the Dallas area. I was there for a year until the company lost the account. What that job instilled in me is that I LOVE working outside. Guess what the absolute best part of that was? Getting to see all the dogs getting walked. I have always loved animals and would love to be in any field related to them in any way.

Funniest Pet Experience

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My cat, Sisqo, refuses to put his face in a water dish. Instead, he prefers to dip out small sips of water with his paw and lick it off. It is the funniest thing! I really need to get a video of it for TV.

What our pet friends teach us
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I think pets can teach us forgiveness. If you have forgotten to play a game of catch one day and your dog is disappointed, you can always count on them to be eager the next day with a clean slate ready to let you make it up to them. They don’t count your mistakes and hold them against you.

Jamie's clients say:

… We are very, very pleased with what we’ve seen of VIP so
far, and are OVERJOYED to have Jamie coming this weekend.

Our last pet-sitter was very capable, but lacked warmth and a willingness to interact with our dogs (which was one of the biggest reasons we hired them in the first place).

Our initial meeting with Jamie cheered us up right away, and
dispelled any doubts we might’ve had about changing to a new pet sitting service. She was very affectionate with our dogs (and this affection was reciprocated). She represented your company very well, and seems like a very good fit for us.

Matthew S

… We are relieved now to have found in Jamie someone who genuinely wants to keep our dogs happy while we are gone, instead of merely keeping them fed and watered. Jamie’s visits, and the care she put into her work, were in sharp contrast to what we were used to. We were not used to getting text message updates, much less a request from Jamie to contact HER when we arrived back home to let her know the dogs were okay. All doubts vanished with Jamie’s first text message, and we knew our dogs were in good hands. And it sure made it easier to enjoy our weekend at the horse show. The peace of mind Jamie gave us is a debt not easily repaid, but that won’t stop us from trying.

Matthew S

Gracie & Evie

Resident Pets

I currently own 3 small dogs. They are my best friends and I love love love them... a mini poodle named Evie, a mini Schnauzer named Gracie and a terrier mix named Geo. I have owned many dogs, cats, birds, fish and one horse.

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?

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I’ve had so many memorable experiences with my (and other people’s) pets. My own dogs really gave me so much love when going thru a particularly hard time. There was a time they were the only happy thing in my life and I will be forever grateful to them for that.

One experience that comes to mind at work is.. I cared for an older dog who was blind and could not move around well. I loved spending hours with him just petting him. I took him on walks where I just held him and walked outside. I helped him eat by holding the food on a spoon up to his mouth. I enjoyed every minute of spending time with that baby. Also, there is another dog I have had the privilege of continuing to see during the Corona pandemic. Not being able to get out much, seeing his sweet face makes me so happy. He is very special to me.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

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​I wanted to work with pets because I absolutely adore them. I know how important they are to their owners

Why do you love working with animals?

I LOVE, actually getting paid to do something I love to do anyway. It is so fun to see all the different personalities in the animals. Also, it’s very fulfilling to me to know I’m giving good care to these babies when their moms and dads can’t be there. I know how I would hope someone would treat my babies. This job is so easy because I always fall in love with each one of them.

All different types of pets you've worked with.

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I’ve worked with dogs (and puppies), cats (and kittens), birds, fish and rabbits. I adore all of them.

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

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What I think my own pets would say about me... “She gives us a lot of kisses!” and that I’m always smiling when I see them. They might say I sometimes give too much affection…but, seriously, is “too much” even possible?

Carrollton

What can we learn from our animal friends?

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They teach us about vision, patience, endurance and live among other things.

What is the best part about being a pet sitter?
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Being with animals to experience their joy and curiosity of life.

What is your ultimate goal in life?

Happiness

Lewisville

Resident Pets

I have three pets. Lou(Ferrigno) is a tuxedo cat, he’s about 9 years old. Brooklyn(Fonsworthington) is a Shiba-Inu mix, he’s about 6 years old. Teddy(Theodore Froto) is a Yorkie, he is four years old. All my babies have middle names that start with F, just because. My friend gave me Lou, I adopted Brooklyn from a shelter, and Teddy is a love child from my mom’s dogs. We named him Teddy/Theodore because when he was a puppy he looked just like a teddy bear, but was also so tiny and had a chubby little behind like Theodore from Alvin and the Chipmunks!

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?

My pets are constantly making me laugh – picking one thing is so hard! I’ll give something funny that each of mine does or have done. When we go on walks and Brooklyn sees a squirrel, he will cry so loud and literally try to climb the tree to get to it, but he can’t so he just cries louder in this strange Shiba-Inu whine-cry. It’s funny but early mornings are embarrassing sometimes. Teddy lets me know that he has to go potty by sitting on my hand and staring at me. They both love swimming so it’s kind of funny when they jump in the pool in the middle of winter and realize it’s cold! When I first got my cat, my friend gave me a stuffed animal that was the same coloring and size as Lou, needless to say Lou thought it was his girlfriend and tried to make kittens, all the time.

W​hat I like most about my job?

I love working with animals so much! I love that they are always so happy to see you, they are there for you at all times, and they always make me happy no matter what is going on.

What our pet friends teach us? 

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They can teach us so much. They teach us patience, kindness, sense of humor, unconditional love, and responsibility, to name a few.

​Jess clients say:

“I just love my pet sitter Jess. She is the sweetest and loves Eve – and Eve loves her! I have peace of mind whenever she is with her. Thank you VIP Pet Services!” -Brenda

“Just wanted to let you know…Karen and Jess are amazing!! Thanks so much!!” -Jennifer

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​What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?

I guess the funniest experience I had was playing, “Catch Me If You Can” with a roommates dog at the time. She, Samus, is a large German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, and Rottweiler mix who would chase you around the wall separating the living room and hall of our old house. Due to the hard floors, many times it was hard for either of us to keep our balance.

What is your ultimate goal in life?

My ultimate goal in life is enjoying my new found health. You would think that’s easy but until recently it wasn’t.

Christy's client say:

“Christy was wonderful!  She kept me informed and interacted with me during my entire trip.  And, she loves Eve.” -Brenda

“Thank you so much for taking the extra time to spend with Emi. You are a very special person Christy. We are blessed to have you in our lives.” -David

“I don’t worry at all when Christy is there! Peace of mind is great!” -Cindi

“Thank you so much for the time you spent with the puppies and making sure the house was good too!! I really appreciate you and will definitely reach out next trip we have planed!!” -Lisa

Franklin

Resident Pets

Currently I own a 15 month old English Bulldog (Franklin), Moxxi a 6 year old Chow/Shepherd Mix, Norman Bates who is a 6 year old Staffy/Sharpei/Beagle Mix and finally  Vixen a Chihuahua Terrier Mix, who is the senior of the bunch at 11 years old. 

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?

I began "collecting" animals as my parents would call it during elementary school. While walking home, if I found an unattended dog or cat I would try to coax them to follow me home, this usually worked, and I ended up with random dogs and cats in my house and yard when my parents would return from work. My local vet office and animal control knew me by name because I was always finding lost and displaced pets.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

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I worked for a dog rescue as a lead foster and adoption coordinator, helping to determine which dogs fit best with which people, and also helping to ready the dogs medically, emotionally and with limited training to be the best they could be once they were adopted.

Why do you love working with animals?

I decided then that I wanted to do more. I enrolled and attended The Animal Behavior College out of Santa Clarita California, and graduated with honors with my Dog Training and Handling Certification.

All different types of pets you've worked with.

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I love to work with all animals not just dogs. I have experience with cats, birds, arachnids, hamsters, chinchillas, ferrets, bearded dragons, and an assortment of other lizards, bugs, and snakes. Not much fazes me, I'm a lover of all living things.

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

“Our mom loves us a lot, she even makes sure we are always taken care of no matter if she has to go take care of other dogs!”

Scout

Resident Pets
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I’ve had pets of all types since I was very young ranging from dogs, cats, doves, fish, and horses! Currently, I have a dog named Scout and a horse named Arizona!

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?
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The most memorable pets I’ve ever taken care of were sugar gliders! They were so cute, sweet, and very memorable!

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

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I’ve always loved animals so when my friends needed someone trustworthy to take care of their fur babies, I was excited to say yes!

Why do you love working with animals?
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I’ve loved animals as far as I can remember! I even went to school to become a veterinary technician! I’ve worked with animals professionally, however, since I was 11 years old.

All different types of pets you've worked with.

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Due to my profession, I’ve had the opportunity to work with all types of animals! I work most commonly with dogs and cats but I’ve also worked with horses, cattle, birds, lizards, rats, ferrets, rabbits, goats, chickens, pigs, and the lost goes on!

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

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She always gives me my favorite treats and gives the best belly rubs!

Winston

Resident Pets
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I've owned fish and dogs.The current dog I own is Winston! I love his energy and he's very goofy.  He loves to go to the dog park!

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

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I love dogs and cats! Being a dog walker is a great form of exercise and it’s a bonus because it’s something that is done outdoors!

Why do you love working with animals?

Animals are always unconditionally loving. I always enjoy their company!

All different types of pets you've worked with.

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Fish, dogs & cats

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

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"She takes me on walks, but not enough walks...there are never enough walks. Or play."

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Resident Pets

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I haven't had a house pet since my daughter was in college. The pup was an American Eskimo rescue which we had for about 9 years. Sorry to say we had to put her down because of failing health.

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?

Never did get another pet but, as you know, I really like the furry creatures.I consider all my VIP buds really special.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

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Retired and wanted to do something that would include keeping me outdoors!  I enjoy being active and love animals, so thought it was a win, win situation!

Why do you love working with animals?
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I started out walking a dog for VIP for quite some time & eventually worked into doing pet sitting with both cats & dogs!  Even took care of a bunny!!Just wanted to say “thanks” for letting me work with them

All different types of pets you've worked with.

Cats, dogs & bunnies!

Frisco/The Colony/N. Plano

Resident Pets

I’ve had dogs, cats, and horses.  I grew up on a ranch.

Your most memorable time with a pet you've owned or taken care of.

The most memorable times were playing fetch with my dogs and also teaching them tricks in my backyard.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

I absolutely love animals.  They fill my heart with so much joy!

Why do you love working with animals & how long have you worked with them?

My whole life, I grew up taming Ferrell cats, working with wild mustang horses and teaching my dogs many tricks. Makes me smile and gives me a sense of accomplishment.

All different types of pets you've worked with.

Dogs, cats, horses, cows, pigs, chickens, turkeys, parakeet, pigeon, turtles, snakes, guinea pigs, and whatever else my family could fit on our Ranch

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

Lately, my cats say that I need to get out of the house more since the quarantine.

Teagan

Resident Pets
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My family currently owns a dog that is half chihuahua and half schnauzer named Teagan! I chose her out of a rescue dog's unexpected litter and fell in love. She has a spunky attitude and is incredibly loyal to her family! I grew up around animals and had a variety of pets in the past including a cockatiel (Marshmallow), tortoise (Topo gigio), guinea pig (Nibbles), yellow lab (Sonny and Sadie), and beta fish (Rainbow).

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?
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My most memorable time taking care of pets was when I took care of 4 rescue dogs (2 grey hounds and 2 whippets) and the five of us cuddled together every night in bed! The 5am wake up time was a surprise, but was worth the cuddles and tail wags!

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

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I became a pet sitter because I love taking care of different types of animals and learning about their personalities! I am currently a college student and do not have my own pet, but I cannot imagine being away from animals!

Why do you love working with animals?
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I love working with animals because they are great companions and develop strong bonds with you! There is nothing better than a greeting from a happy furry friend! I have had various pets my entire life, but have worked with animals through pet sitting and volunteer work for 8 years!

All different types of pets you've worked with.

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I have worked with dogs, cats, snakes, tortoises, parakeets, cockatiels, hermit crabs, fish, guinea pigs, hamsters, and rats!

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

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My family's puppy, Teagan, would say that I spoil her with kisses and cuddles and provide a great buddy to lay on the nearest bed or couch with a huge fuzzy blanket! She would also say that I am a great hiking and tug-of-war partner!

Luna

Resident Pets

I have my own fur family including 4 cats, a beautiful girl husky, and a turtle!My house wouldn’t be a home without them.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

I become a pet sitter while deciding to go back to school and it has been so therapeutic for me! Getting to care for and learning the needs and personalities of each animal is so special. I love to make sure they are all beating cared just as I do with my own fur babies .

Why do you love working with animals?
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Ever since I was little I have had a connection to animals and spent allot of my time with them, from watching neighbors and families pets, to spending time outside and trying to help strays and all different breads of animals. I couldn’t imagine life without animals in it.

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All different types of pets you've worked with.

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I have a special place in my heart for Husky’s and have been working with rescues for years now.  3 years ago I decided to adopt my own. She was very sick and needed lots of treatment, and as hard as it was I am so happy to get to be apart of that process and creating that bound with her just as I love doing with each and every animal I get to care for.

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

“Our mom takes very good care of us and loves each and every one of us!”

Dallas

Resident Pets

I have a 1-year old cat named Luna Lovegood who I rescued and nursed to health from a small kitten. She is a diva and loves to get her way. Her hobbies include: Eating, Napping, hide and seek and watching people and cars from the windows. Also My grandmother and I take care of stray cat and her 4 kittens. Their names are Sirius Black, Mietta, Henrietta, Rusty Wallace, and Fred. They love to play and run around the yard all day, then at night they all cuddle up together in bed.

Your most memorable time with a pet you've owned or taken care of.

Once I sat for a family with two dogs who loved to swim after their afternoon walks. Almost every day of the sitting the dogs and I were in the pool having the best time. Being able to swim with them was definitely a fun experience and the cutest thing ever.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

I really enjoy spending time and bonding with animals. I feel that pets are truly an extension of family and should be cared for in the same manner.

Why do you love working with animals & how long have you worked with them?

While searching for a career I found that helping animals came very natural to me, and since then I have set a goal to help and advocate for them. I find caring for pets brings a great joy to my life and I want to help as many as I can

All different types of pets you've worked with.

Dogs, Cats, Rabbits, guinea pig, and birds

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

I think my cat would say “My mom always has treats! Check her bag”

Carrollton/Lewisville

Prior to coming to VIP, Jessica has spent time being a volunteer at the SPCA, she’s also done pet sitting on her own; and has also worked at the Tri City animal shelter!  She has a true love for taking care of all types of pets!

Resident Pets
I grew up with Labradors, cats, hamsters, parakeet and turtle (not all at once). I currently own a gray short hair feline named Gemini.

Your most memorable time with a pet you've owned or taken care of.
Pet sitting for a pit mix and terrier mix and it was raining, but they really enjoyed running out in the rain. Messy, but they were very happy.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker.
I’ve always enjoyed caring for animals!

Why do you love working with animals & how long have you worked with them?
I’ve worked with animals off and on since high school. I love it because you can tell if an animal is content and it brings joy to my heart.

All different types of pets you've worked with.

Mostly just dogs and cats. Horseback riding lessons when I was 13, but don't remember a lot!

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

That she's happy I rescued her from the SPCA and even though I annoy her with my petting, she enjoys living with me.

North Dallas / Richardson / Carrollton

Any pet(s) you currently own or have owned in the past (all types!).

Currently share my life with 2 cat ladies that love the sun and open windows, much like their favorite human, ie, me.

Your most memorable time with a pet you've owned or taken care of.

Visiting the home of a young family who let their pet rabbits roam free in their city back yard. Nature took over and I soon noticed that the number of rabbits -and holes- kept increasing exponentially!

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

They are the only work colleagues that will settle down with a treat and TLC.

Why do you love working with animals & how long have you worked with them?

Hanging out with animals on a regular basis is a very sweet way to spend your days. Getting paid while in service to them, is a perk.

All different types of pets you've worked with.

All of them! Mammals and birds are obvious favorites, but lizards can have a popping personality!

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

“She understands me and makes me laugh!”.

VIP Pet Services is so glad to welcome back Pilar!!  She was originally with VIP over 10 years ago and was always a great sitter and had a genuine love of animals and taking care of them!  She has since been extremely busy building a business and brand and now has decided it’s a good time to come back and we are fortunate to have her back with us!!  

North Dallas / Carrollton

Any pet(s) you currently own or have owned in the past (all types!).

I currently have 2 adorable rescue dogs – Mason and Lane. Mason is a Schnorkie (Schnauzer Yorkie mix) we think about 8 years old. He had a particularly hard early life – being abandoned 3 times and escaping an abusive owner too until he found his forever home with us 6 years ago. He loves to chill in his bed or on the cool tiled floors, go for walks and eat (and eat some more!). Lane is a Shorkie (Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix) and is 5. We have had her since she was a 6 month old puppy and was running the house about 10 minutes after bringing her home…. She bosses everyone about!

Your most memorable time with a pet you've owned or taken care of.

Shorki loves to play ball and swim and her favorite game is racing me to the ball in the pool – she would give Michael Phelps a run for his money!

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

I have always wanted to work with animals but my job has often got in the way. Now I have my own travel business I can schedule around working as a dog walker / pet sitter too!

Why do you love working with animals & how long have you worked with them?

In the past before I moved to the US from England I worked with the RSPCA fostering cats and dogs before they were rehomed. I adore all animals and think we humans can learn so much from them in how we approach every day with love and enthusiasm!

All different types of pets you've worked with.

I’ve also had Golden Retrievers, Jack Russell and Miniature Schnauzers, cats, bunnies and my first pet was a tortoise!

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

If my dogs could talk…. They would probably say:

Mason – Can I have another treat?

Lane – Let’s play ball!

And we love you!!!

Russell is a great addition to our Carrollton dog walkers!  He has a genuine love of animals and has volunteered for the RSPCA (in the UK) before moving to the US and here he has fostered dogs & cats & vetted homes to send them to.

Dallas

Resident Pets

Being surrounded by pets growing up, gave me some of the best memories with my family. Over the course of my twenty-three years I have had 4 dogs, 6 cats, 3 guinea pigs, 2 hamsters and 8 goats. All of them have helped shape who I am today and are the reasons I do what I do.

Your most memorable time with a pet you've owned or taken care of.

I loved getting my cat, Bella, with my boyfriend because he never had a cat growing up so he was always scared of them. The first day we brought her home, he was more scared of her than she was of us and he would not get close to her because he thought she would bite and scratch him instantly. The next day, they were cuddling on the couch and he tells me every day how thankful he is for her.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

I love animals: all shapes, sizes, breeds, and types. I have a cat who I adore, but I love dogs too and don’t have one of my own, so being able to love on other people’s dog is exactly what I enjoy doing. Being greeted with excitement and warmth every day by those fuzzy smiles definitely makes my day better.

Why do you love working with animals & how long have you worked with them?

I chose to be a vet tech because I am an animal lover and the warmth I feel from saving and caring for lives are well worth the sacrifices and hardships that come with the job. My love for animals has always been a constant thing in my life, so working with them every day is something I know I will always be passionate about.

All different types of pets you've worked with.

I grew up raising goats and always having a furry friend around. I used to horse-back ride, so I learned how to clean and take care of the farm animals as well. Constantly being surrounded by animals has taught me the responsibility of having pets as well as the unconditional love they bring every day.

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

I believe my pets would say I am compassionate and that I love taking care of others. The responsibility of raising pets and being around the constant love they give, shaped me into choosing to give back to animals every day.

Austin

Resident Pets

I currently don’t have any, though I look forward to getting a cat in the future. I did leave two cats with my parents: Misty and Smut. Misty is the oldest one; she’s timid and soft-hearted, preferring to stay out of trouble. She’ll often enter a room slowly and cautiously and tends to jump at the littlest noises. I’ve had her for her whole life, so I know this is just a nervous trait rather than anything traumatic happening. Smut’s definitely a leader, very much in charge and letting everyone, both Misty and her humans, know it. She hogs the food, so even though I’ve given my parents advice on how to fix it, she’s still become very fat and is quite happy with this. Misty was adopted from a factory cat who had kittens, while Smut was rescued from the side of a country road

What can we learn from our animal friends? 
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Compassion, empathy, patience, how to take care of a life that isn’t our own.

What is the best part about being a pet sitter?

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Getting to know the people who have these pets as their friends, and the animals as well! Plus, I love to take care of animals.

What is your ultimate goal in life?

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To travel to at least one place outside of the USA.

Megan's clients say:

“Megan is the best to take care of all my cats! I get photos and details faster than with any pet service and I’m very comfortable having her take care of everyone when I’m out of town!” -Carrie

Round Rock

Resident Pets

My husband and I have 7 dogs and 3 cats.  Our dogs are Shorty, Owen, Patrick, Sylvester, Lily Belle, Blueberry, and Olive.  Our cats are Basil, Chloe, and Claire.  All of our dogs are rescues, except for Lily Belle, whom I inherited from my mother when she passed away. 

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?

Owen is pictured with me in the photo.  A few years ago, we were waiting in the drive-thru at Shipley’s Doughnuts, when Owen decided to jump from the car window and run to the drive-through window when he smelled the doughnuts.  I had to leave my car to retrieve him, but the ladies at the window gave him an entire box of doughnut holes. 

What is your ultimate goal in life?

My ultimate goal in life is to be a Physician Assistant or attend medical school.  I feel like I have already accomplished a lot in earning my master’s degree and becoming a psychotherapist, but medicine is something that I have always dreamed of doing.

I love working with animals because they provide unconditional love and joy.

Austin, City of Austin

Resident Pets

I have a sweet rescue dog named Alex who is 13. He comes with me everywhere he is allowed. Then we have 4 cats. Chito is an adorable white and orange kitty who walks with Alex and me. If we get too far ahead he “yells” at us to slow down. I had a stray who had kittens under my rose bush. Then mama kitty moved them and the kittens became feral. But now, three of those little kitties are my cats. They love me and play and come when I call them but are still timid around other people. Little Louise can catch a bird in mid flight. Jackie-o is very sweet and silky with a quiet meow. Oliver is a big orange lover kitty. He is friendly to every one like most orange kitties.

What I enjoy most about my job?
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Playing and cuddling with pets!

Funniest Pet Experience 

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Chito “yelling” at Alex and me when we walk too far ahead. It’s funny and my neighbors love it.

What our pet friends teach us

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Resident Pets

I have been a dog owner and dog lover my entire life! I grew up with 3 schnauzers, and since then I have had a black lab, a pug, and a couple of loveable rescue mutts. I currently have two rescue Pit mixes, and they are the loves of my life!  Their names are Luna and Ringo.  Luna is my beautiful, spoiled little princess and Ringo has more personality and energy than any pup I’ve ever known!

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?

My husband and I moved from New York City to Austin a few years ago.  We drove 1800 miles with our two 70 lb pit mixes and a U-haul trailer attached to our tiny car.  Being raised in NYC, our pups were not used to riding in cars, and they refused to lie quietly in the backseat. They insisted on riding in my lap the entire trip while my husband drove.  That’s 140 lbs of panting, drooling Pitbulls in my lap for 2 days straight. In a tiny car. In the middle of summer.

Why do you love working with animals?

I find it extremely important to keep mind, body, and spirit in balance. However, society is constantly reminding us just how unbalanced and disconnected life can be. Working with animals helps to keep me grounded and re-establishes the healthy balance that we struggle maintain in our busy lives.  Their accepting and unconditional nature is truly a wonderful gift that I cherish daily.

What is your ultimate goal in life?

My dream is to someday own a home on a few acres of land, that my husband and I can turn into a doggy sanctuary.  There are too many wonderful dogs in shelters that deserve a chance at a great life.  I hope to be able to provide a happy forever home to as many dogs as I can manage!

Gracie

Resident Pets
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I don't have any pets at this time, they all crossed the Rainbow Bridge.  I had a mischievous Yorkie, named Greta and Niles which was rescued after he was hit by a car.  Gracie was my gray & white rescue dog,

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?

The most memorable time would be the Yorkie (Greta) I owned, who was mischievous. I have a sister, who was visiting me. Greta kept getting in her suitcase and stealing her pantyhose. The dog would taunt my sister, with a wad of stockings in her mouth.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

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I became a pet sitter, because I love animals and I connect with them easily.

Why do you love working with animals?

I love working with animals, especially since I don't have any pets right now.

All different types of pets you've worked with.

I have taken care of dogs, cats, birds, rats and fish.

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

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I think my pets would say that I am loving and gentle.

Racecar

Resident Pets

I grew up with a kitty named Sassy, who's mama was a stray cat my neighbor took in when she gave birth under the porch. My sister and I bottle fed Sassy until she was old enough for us to adopt her! Over the years we also had gold fish, beta fish, a hamster, and a newt! I don't currently own any pets, which frees up my availability to hang out with yours!

What is the funniest or most memorable experience you've have with an animal?
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My most memorable time with a dog I've taken care of is a pair of pups (Rocket & Racecar!) I watched for almost 8 years in Chicago. They were the sweetest, most well behaved, well trained, hilarious, loving dogs! I miss them all the time. Luckily I took a bunch of photos and videos of them over the years before I moved to Austin to remember our time together.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

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I became a dog walker because I love animals, I love being outside, and it's a really fun way to earn a paycheck. Since I don't have a dog of my own, it's extra special for me to meet and spend time with yours. I started as a full time dog walker in downtown Chicago, walking pups from 10am-6pm five days a week. I'd be lying if I said I didn't partially take the job for the amazing exercise benefits!

Why do you love working with animals?

I love working with animals because they are pure, innocent, honest creatures that have no ulterior motives- they just want to be shown care and affection and return it! It makes my heart happy to treat your animal with kindness because they deserve it for all they do for us!

All different types of pets you've worked with.

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I've worked with dogs, cats, chinchillas, ferrets, hamsters, fish, and birds!

 Austin / Cedar Park / Round Rock

Resident Pets

I currently have 5 pets! I have an American Bully/Pit Bull mix named Thor he is almost 5 years old, I have a 3 year old purebred Siberian Husky named Loki, I have a Green Cheek Conure who is almost 11 months old, named Señor Puff Daddy, I have a Sulcata Tortoise named tiny he is about 4 months old and will live until he's over 100 years old.  Last but not least I have an Axolotol named Axl, he’s about 6 months old and will live for 15 years.

Your most memorable time with a pet you've owned or taken care of.

The most memorable time I have had with my pets or any pet that I have taken care of is when I was about 4 years old I was at my grandma's house and I dreamed of getting a dog and the next day my grandmother and I went to my dads house and sure enough he had gotten me my first ever dog Elvis he was an American bully. He was my best friend and my protector; so when I was 18 I got a tattoo in memory of him.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

I decided to become a dog walker/pet sitter because I just cannot get enough of animals! I have loved and lived and been with animals my whole life and I just constantly feel like I need to be a part of helping in taking care of them since they have been such a positive part of my whole life.

Why do you love working with animals & how long have you worked with them?

I love working with animals like I stated in my previous response because they have always been my calling in life. I have been around all types of animals my whole life but I have worked at an actual job with animals since July of 2019 at action pack dog center. When I was 8 years old I started horseback riding lessons so I learned everything there is to know about taking care of horses, when I was 9 my grandmother bought me a horse and a goat and it was my responsibility to take care of them. I have always worked with dogs my family is very dog friendly. My mom always had cats and I've been around them and cared for them since I can remember.

All different types of pets you've worked with.

I have worked professionally with dogs since 2019. At my current job I work with any and every type,age and special needs dogs except wolf hybrids. I have experience with birds, Sulcata Tortoises,and Axolotls.

What you think your pet(s) would say about you!!

I think Thor my American bully would say I love you, can I eat again please? (Even though he's already eaten), can I eat the birds food?, can I get on the couch? Etc. My other dog would talk like the dog from up he has plenty to say but not much meaning behind it for example he would say: Squirrel!, Bunny!,Dog!. Then he'd look at me and say oh! Hi mommy sorry I pulled you looking for a bunny when I was in fact a leaf!. My bird already has a lot to say he copies my laugh and says I love you, yes, good bird, shut up, bath time? Etc. My tortoise would just ask for more food and my axolotl would probably complain like a grumpy old man about noises and the lights being on.

Cedar Park / Austin

Resident Pets

I currently share my home with Little Richard (parakeet), Tuni (hedgehog), and Rose (ancient Red Heeler). It is a diverse mix of pets, but everyone seems to do their part in keeping life exciting and making sure I get up at a reasonable time every day.

Your most memorable time with a pet you've owned or taken care of.

One of my most memorable experiences involved a pet rooster named Longshanks. He was the first chicken I hatched in an incubator, so I imprinted on him from a hatchling. It was hard to explain that this meant he didn't quite understand the transition to the chicken coop when we got him some hens, and there were few nights I had to open the back door and let him roost over the shower for about a week every evening... But he was a very calm and respectful gentleman.

Why you became a pet sitter/dog walker!

My background in fostering and working with local rescues prompted me to want to further my opportunities in helping my community. With such a strong skillset taking care of animals, and a passion for making every animal feel comfortable and loved, pet sitting just seemed like the right place for me!

Why do you love working with animals & how long have you worked with them?

I have a LONG history of working with animals, since a very young age.  Animals provide a unique opportunity for me to constantly expand my knowledge. No matter how many I've encountered, no two act alike, and I thoroughly enjoy getting to know them!

All different types of pets you've worked with.

Goats, llamas, chickens, dogs, cats, small exotic animals, birds, and reptiles.