Leila

About me

I started petsitting in July 2021 to turn my animal care hobby into a side profession! I am highly experienced in dog sitting, dog walking and cat sitting on Rover.com and have many repeat clients and 100% 5 star reviews. I used to board dogs in my family home but now that I am in student accommodation I offer house sitting, drop-ins and dog walking only. I live in the Kensington and Chelsea area, London.

I am a 5th year medical student in my professional life and before deciding to branch into medicine I had 3 weeks of work experience in various veterinary practices - including Willows and Hollybank. I am also currently undergoing a canine first aid course.

My pets

I have had my dog Henry (golden retriever x labrador) since he was 8 weeks old so I understand the constant supervision required with puppies, having been through it myself! Henry is now 3 years old and an absolute joy. He lived with me in London while he was a puppy but now lives in my family home in Cheshire as I am not allowed to have him in student accommodation.

I am familiar with looking after many types of animal. I have owned cats since I was 8 years old and understand each cat has different needs, personalities and eating preferences, with some being more shy than others. For instance, last year I looked after a very shy cat who only comes out into the open with its owners, and with a gentle and quiet approach I managed to gain the cat's trust and even managed to play with it!

In my family home we have 2 rabbits which are 10 years old and live in a spacious environment and get fed lots of hay! I understand rabbits' needs very well, and used to have a blog on rabbit care - I am also familiar with RWAF's campaign 'A Hutch is not enough' and understand rabbits' needs for a social companion and a spacious environment to run and play in.

My approach

Dogs

I am very comfortable looking after dogs of all sizes and I'm familiar with positive-reinforcement training techniques so I'm happy to continue any ongoing training with your dog. When I am house-sitting, I like to take dogs out for at least 2 walks a day, and depending on the dog's needs and recall ability I endeavour to take them to local dog parks for a run-around and play. I regularly ensure water bowls are topped up, especially in hot weather, and will work alongside the owner to maintain a desired feeding/treat schedule depending on your preferences. In the house, I like to play tug, fetch and enrichment games with dogs to keep them occupied, and of course lots of love and cuddles if the dog prefers it! I offer house sitting, drop-in sessions and dog walking.

Cats

Like with dogs, cats come with all sorts of different personalities! I believe cats require a more gentle and subdued approach than with most dogs (unless the dog is nervous), allowing them to come up to you in their own time rather than approaching them. I offer drop-in sessions and overnight sitting.

Rabbits

I understand a rabbit's physiological need to be constantly eating, which is why I will always ensure they have more than enough hay to eat. I will feed your rabbit, top up their water and offer them company, letting them out of their hutch into a secure area to run around if necessary. I offer drop-in sessions and overnight sitting.

Questions

Please feel comfortable to ask as many questions as you like, I appreciate it can be scary leaving your pet with a petsitter for the first time. Please feel free to contact me if you are unsure about my rates as these can be adjusted depending on the length of service - ie. If you only need me for the evening and not overnight I can reduce rates for you.