Anna

Kia ora,
I'm Anna. I'm originally from Sweden (fluent Swedish/English and passable German speaking) but I've lived in NZ on and off for almost 2 decades, and am probably more kiwi now than Swedish! Until 3 years ago, when I moved to Christchurch, most of that time I was based in Wellington. 

When I settled down in Christchurch I decided it was finally time to make my lifelong dream of having a dog a reality - so I got my Shadow, a lively Springer Spaniel/Poodle cross. I work full time remotely since the pandemic so Shadow and I spend our days quietly together in my home office. Until recently we were joined by my tenant's dog while he was at work. Since they have moved out, I have missed the additional company, and a friend suggested I try pawshake! Because I work from home and can give your dog company during the day, I am offering both doggy daycare and dog boarding options. Shadow and I will break up the day with a lunchtime walk in the neighbourhood or a quick visit to the local park for her to stretch her legs (and give me some fresh air)! 

I live in a house with a fully fenced property, with gates also to separate the front and back yard. In addition to two tenants, I also have chickens who provide the household with eggs. The chicken run is also fenced to keep curious dogs at a safe distance. :)  

In terms of my experience with dogs (aside from my own), although I am new to pawshake, I used to volunteer as a dog walker for elderly neighbours who couldn't walk their dogs, I have done dog sitting for friends, and I love when friends visit with their dogs. My degree is in psychology and I completed my PhD in behaviour analysis, which is focused on animal behaviour! Shadow, being a typical enthusiastic Springer, has given me lots of opportunities to practice applying my psychology knowledge through training. I find it incredibly interesting and rewarding working with her as she learns and develops. In my photo gallery you can see a picture of last summer's training project: getting Shadow comfortable with stand-up paddle boarding (that's me, Shadow and a friend's dog on the paddle board - the ultimate dream is that she enjoys boat life as much as I do)! I've put dog training as a service because I am happy to work on your dog's skills after a discussion with you, but please note that I am not qualified to train behavioural problems.

I'm happy to administer oral medication as per your instructions. Fully vaccinated pets only please.