Katherine (Kate)

I've grown up with dogs all my life and adore them. I've also been the lucky owner of Norwegian Hooded rats, mice, a Giant Chinchilla rabbit and guinea pigs. I love all animals and enjoy spending time in their company.  

I'm a film and TV production manager (specialise in natural history documentaries). As my industry is suffering greatly in the current economic climate, I thought I’d turn to my other great love, animals, to earn a living, as I have done so previously.  

Sadly, my GSP/Staffy cross died of bone cancer in April 2022 at eleven years old. He was an SPCA rescue that I'd owned from 10 weeks old. I was/am devasted by his loss.  

My 15-year-old Labrador died in June 2024. He was a Dunedin Dog Rescue boy that I adopted when he was 10 years old. I miss him keenly - he had a great retirement though.  

I live on my own in a three-bedroom cottage with a small/medium sized fully fenced garden. I currently have no pets living in my home but do have a regular (very friendly female) guest dog who stays with me overnight on most Saturday nights (3pm – 3pm Sunday). If there was a need to accommodate another guest dog on Saturday nights, I’d introduce them prior to accepting another booking to ensure they are happy in each other’s company. If I was to be dog sitting in your own home on a Saturday night on a longer booking, other arrangements can be made with my usual Saturday guest. 

Guest pets generally sleep in the sitting room (there’s a lovely fire in there) but I am also happy for them to sleep in my bedroom if that is their preference. 

When working as a freelance PM I generally work from home during the day. When I am required to be away from home during the day I’ve always returned at lunchtime to walk the dogs. I am available to supervise guest pets 24/7 when required. 

I walk at least an hour every day but am happy to go for longer walks and/or a couple of times a day. I enjoy the beach, John Wilson Ocean Drive (great for doggy socialising), Ross Creek and along the Taieri River. I will also travel to your favoured locations and dog parks should you wish. 

I am happy to administer medication to your pet and have experience in and a good level and understanding of training. I’m not a groomer but would be happy to brush pets and give them a clean should they get dirty whilst in my care. 

I’m able to accommodate up to two dogs at a time, but if needs be, this could be negotiated in certain circumstances. 

In short, I will love and look after your pet as if they were my own.