I volunteered as a dog walker for the SPCA for over a decade, working with dogs of various ages, breeds, sizes, temperaments, and levels of leash training. Some were really keen on playing fetch, while others just wanted some peace, quiet and cuddles. And I was happy to provide both!

I've also had family dogs - I did agility club training with our border collie, which was amazing fun. I really miss having that dog time, but I can't have a dog myself, as my 19-year-old cat Zac would definitely not appreciate the company. So, I'm looking for some regular dog-walking jobs to help fill that gap. I'm also happy to take on one-off clients. 

I'm also keen to help out other cat families with feeding and visits. I know how reassuring it can be to have someone visit once or twice daily while you're away, especially if your cat (like mine!) is older or prone to silly injuries. Being a servant of an elderly cat means that I'm also experienced in administering food bribery, lap snuggles, and all sorts of medication.

I have used PawShake for 5+ years to have my own cat looked after while I'm out of town, and I've found the service to be really great. I've put my name forward to do house visits and pet feeds for cats, dogs, and maybe even the occasional bunny. 

I work Monday to Friday during regular office hours, so I'm available early morning or evenings during the week. I am also available during the day or night on the weekends. I live out west and work in the city centre, so I'm able to help with pets in both areas.

The pics in my gallery are:

- Pango, a friendly wee gremlin, who loves climbing on my shoulder. 

- Rio, chilling out midway through our first Pawshake walk. 

- Zac, my elderly cat. He loves a good hiding place, so has plenty of cat caves to snooze in.

- Zac in 2007, when he was less than 2 years old. He was so small!

- Jed, our family border collie. He was the best dog I've ever known.

- A black lab called Bosun, aboard a sailing boat on Lake Taupo. He was the first mate!

- An un-named puppy, mid-walk at the SPCA. I remember this puppy being an absolute wiggle-monster and very cuddly.