About Ger
I've been a dog lover (and owner) for almost my entire life.
In 2013 a change in my personal circumstances and living arrangements resulted in me being forced to rehome my beloved Springer Spaniel (to a couple living about 20 mins away who already owned a Springer) and Beagle (to a friend living in New Jersey). I was absolutely heartbroken, but I had no other option at the time...and knew it was the best course of action I could take for the sake of the dogs.
But the change in circumstances did have a positive twist too. It eventually steered me in the direction of this tranquil little cottage, in the beautiful countryside, down the end of a bohreen. It has a very large garden, surrounded by traditional old stone walls. The peace and quiet is just amazing. My very own little piece of Heaven.
During my first summer here a friend was going on a weekend break. Knowing how much I loved dogs, she asked if I would do her the favour of minding her beloved pooch in my home while she was away. I didn't hesitate for even a second! I was still missing my two beautiful boys so I was only too delighted to have a little doggie for company again!
I couldn't wait for her to drop him off on Friday! I think I was more excited about minding the dog than she was about going away for the weekend! Of course on the Sunday evening I felt a deep twinge of sadness as I handed the little bundle of fluff back to his owner.
Soon after they left that
evening I decided that this was something I wanted to do on a more regular basis. I hadn't realised how much I really missed having doggies in my life. My current lifestyle doesn't allow for me to own a dog full time. So this would be an ideal opportunity for me to spend quality time with doggies for the majority of the year.
I'm delighted to say that now I've got quite a number of very happy regular clients.... together with a constant flow of 'newbies' which usually become regulars in time.
All doggies stay in my home with me. I walk them, play with them, cuddle up on the couch with them, (some have even slept on my own bed if that's what they are used to at home...we can't have the poor wee things all distressed. 😏🤭).
I would ask that you bring their own food with you as I find it's best not to make any unnecessary changes to their normal diet. You have the option to bring their own bed, dishes, toys, etc. if you think that would help them to settle in more quickly. If your doggie sleeps on your couch at home then they can sleep on my couch too. I will try my very best to replicate here whatever they are used to at home. Their happiness and comfort is my main concern, together with your peace of mind.
Normally it takes less than 5 minutes for my new guest to settle in and be on my lap enjoying cuddles and belly rubs....and perhaps the odd doggie treat (if permitted by the owner). If an owner asks me not to stray away from a particular diet then I will always respect their wishes.
My garden is over half an acre....so they have lots of space to run around and play.
I usually only take small dogs, as the larger ones would be able to escape over the walls if they were inclined to 'ramble'. However, I do have a couple of larger dogs that are now on my 'regulars' list. Their owners came to visit and were confident that their dog would not attempt to leave the garden. In fact they seldom leave my side in most cases.
I will send you regular updates and photos of your doggie while you're away.
Can I just mention that if the weather is unkind and your dog gets very mucky during their stay, I will usually bath them (free of charge), using medicated puppy shampoo, suitable for sensitive skin. So if this is not something you would be comfortable with please mention it to me at the drop-off point.
If you think your doggie would be happy to come here for a mini-break, or long stay even, then please feel free to contact me with any questions you might have. You are also very welcome to come for a short visit to see for yourself if this is somewhere you would be happy to leave your pet.
If you're still reading what has unintentionally turned into a rather long-winded piece of information 'about me', then I'd like to thank you for checking out my profile. I look forward to meeting you and your doggie soon.
Ger