Omar Abdi

Ten years in, dogs are simply what my week is built around. Two of them are mine, which means I already keep the hours, the routine and the patience the work asks for, and adding a guest to that rhythm is no strain. I have sat with dogs through thunderstorms, upset stomachs, post-operative cones and the plain misery of missing their owner, and none of it rattles me any more.

What I offer in Columbus is house sitting at your place and doggy day care. I take dogs only. I stick to dogs under 15 lb, because that is what my home and my handling suit. The availability shown on this profile is kept up to date, and I would rather turn a booking down than take one I cannot do properly. There is always a quiet room available if a pet needs to be somewhere on its own for a while, and I will use it rather than force company on an animal that does not want it.

I keep the routine you hand over. Same food, same feeding times, same bedtime arrangement, because a pet that is already unsettled by the change of address does not need its dinner moved as well. Updates go out through the site with pictures attached, and I answer messages the same day. If something is worrying me you will know within the hour, not at pickup.

A meet-and-greet comes before every first booking, without exception. I want your vet's number, your emergency contact and a clear instruction about what you want done if I cannot reach you. If that sounds like what you are after, get in touch with your dates and anything you think I should know in advance. I do not take on more than I can do properly, and I will tell you if I think another sitter is a better match for your pet than I am.