Hi! I’m Michaela - a dedicated animal lover who believes every pet deserves to feel safe, happy, and understood while their humans are away. I provide calm, reliable, and compassionate care for all animals, tailoring my approach to suit each species, personality, and individual need. 

I previously worked at a cattery, and when it sadly closed down, I wasn’t ready to step away from working with animals. That’s why I joined Pawshake - so I can continue doing what I love: offering thoughtful, dependable care and building strong connections with the pets I look after. 

From cuddles and enrichment to gentle handling and routine care, I make sure every animal feels safe, comfortable, and loved.

Skills

• Administering oral medications
• Administering insulin injections
• Gentle low-stress handling
• Basic grooming tasks (brushing, wiping paws & coat checks)
• Safe harnessing & leash handling
• Basic health checks
• Recognizing stress/body language signals 
• Experienced with shy/sensitive or nervous animals, elderly cats and cats with health conditions

History

• Worked as a cattery assistant
• Worked as a farm yard assistant at a farm park
• Volunteered at SPCA with cats & small animals
• Volunteering at a dog rescue 
• Fostered cats requiring socialisation, queens with neonates and kittens/cats of all ages

• Qualifications
• New Zealand Certificate in Animal care (Level 3) - Companion Animals & Rural Animals
• New Zealand Certificate in Animal Management (Level 4) - Companion Animals
• New Zealand Certificate in Animal Management (Level 4) - Canine Behaviour & Training
• Companion Animal CPR and Emergency First Aid

Looking forward to hearing from you !