Summer

I'm Summer and I’m an experienced and caring pet sitter based in Brooklyn, Wellington. I offer over 2 years of Pawshake experience and have had a blast caring for a range of animals in that time. I love being around animals and getting to know them, and since moving away from my hometown Blenheim, I felt this was lacking in my life. Needless to say Pawshake has filled that gap for me! I've lived in Wellington for about a year and have been enjoying exploring my new city. I spend my time freelancing as a videographer/wildlife filmmaker, and volunteering in conservation at Zealandia and in the Remutaka Forest Park Trust. I am also a night guide at Zealandia and take people on tours to see little spotted kiwi, weta, tuatara and glow worms in the sanctuary.

I'm keen to spend even more time with animals as it is what I'm truly passionate about. What I can offer you is undivided attention for your pet during walks and home-visits, as well as your pet being able to stay in their own home during house-sitting visits. This means your pets don't have to deal with the stress of kennels or catteries. I've had many pet-owners metion to me how important this has been for their pet, particularly ones who are anxious around other animals or people, and who are much happier when at home. I acknowledge that my services are more expensive than catteries and kennels but I believe the attentive care I provide makes it worth it. Also incorporated into my pricing is the 19% fee that Pawshake takes from the booking to cover their insurance costs.

Growing up, I have always been surrounded by pets of all types - cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, budgies, chickens, goats, lambs, even frogs - and as a result am a careful and patient carer of them. I grew up watching nature programmes on TV which prompted me to study for my degree in natural history filmmaking. I have recently completed a Masters degree in Science Communication, and have an undergraduate degree in Zoology both obtained at the University of Otago. In the past I have worked at the Royal Albatross Centre in Dunedin as a wildlife tour guide, and have done volunteer work with animals at Orokonui Ecosanctuary, the Dunedin Wildlife Hospital, and the SPCA. I have my own vehicle and full drivers licence.

My goal as a Pawshaker is to leave your pets happy and relaxed for you when you come home, and to ensure you have peace of mind during my time with them. I love sending updates while you’re away, and I get lots of awesome feedback from pet owners. My best attributes are my hard-working and nurturing nature, and bubbly, positive personality. I’m organised, efficient and friendly. I can provide my services in between my part-time work at Zealandia and occassional camera work, so I’d love to hear from you!