Shef

MY EXPERIENCE

I am an experienced Singapore Special owner and an active volunteer with an animal welfare group. I've had my own dog since September 2020 (adopted as a middle aged dog), fostered 3 dogs, and often had friends dogs (mainly Singapore specials) staycation with us while their families travel.

My dog developed health issues two years ago, and I had to try many many sitters before I could find someone I trusted to babysit her when I had to go into work. I can fully relate to the stress of leaving your baby behind. I am currently looking to help other pawrents with the occasional dog sitting / dog walking while I am in between jobs - I know how stressful it can be to find someone you can trust.

My own dog is 27 kgs (she was 32 at one point!), and I am comfy walking bigger dogs. I adore SS, and have a soft spot for shy dogs and seniors.

CARE ARRANGEMENTS

If your dog is coming to us for the day or staying overnight, they will be in the living room. It is a reasonably large room, with cctv and multiple fans on 24-7 (these fans are always on for my own dog as well who tends to move between the bedroom and living room). The balcony is out of bounds to all dogs including mine unless I am personally present.

I now have a helper who keeps an eye on my own dog when I am out, so someone will always be home with the dogs. She can help with meals if I am not home for any reason, but I will be personally responsible for any walks or medication. I will only be taking in dogs on days when I know I will be home. Our house is very quiet and peaceful, and it is only the three of us (my dog, our helper and me). I will typically only be bringing in one dog at a time, unless the second dog is from the same family or they know each other.

We will follow your dog's existing routine in terms of walks and meals. My dog is walked 3x a day, with each walk being 20-45 mins depending on her mood. In terms of food, we will feed whatever your dog is used to. I am strict about not feeding anything not 'approved', as mine is on a restricted diet, and one of my fosters had bad allergies. Our usual vet is Vets for Life at River Valley, and my dog sees the specialists at Beecroft, so unless you have a preferred vet for your dog, these would be my first point of call in the case of any unforseen emergencies. I am comfortable with feeding medication, bathing your dog if needed, and making sure they get enough TLC. I have a spare dog bed they can use, or you are welcome to bring your own. Some of our regular guests prefer the sofa!

SAFETY

Safety is a primary - dogs staying overnight either get an AirTag for the duration of their stay, or I ask to be added to their existing AirTag. Our corridor is secure, so even if your dog runs out of the front door, they cannot make it past the lift lobby. I usually walk skittish dogs on a double leash - same stringent rules as the AWGs have at point of adoption. Our condo is off a busy main road, so all dogs staying with us only walk within the condo grounds (never outside), unless they are regulars that I know very well and the pawrents are ok. I've helped other adopters deal with lost dogs, broken gear etc; so this is one aspect I will not compromise on.

I can promise you lots of updates while your dog is with me. Happy to chat further to provide additional information as needed. My only request would be that your dog is up to date on vaccinations + preventatives if they are coming over, so that mine is also protected.

CATS

2017-2019: I have helped my neighbors with their cats (feeding, cleaning litter box) 2x a day when they travelled. Happy to pop by to help care for cats if your place is walking distance from mine, but I am less experienced with cats as compared to dogs.