These tips from Petbnb petsitter Viola are something everyone should know!

What is your name?

viola (and dog Barry)

How old are you?

40

What do you do in daily life? Work? Study? Hobby?

I am on the neighborhood council (rotterdam/old north) and like to be outdoors.

Did you also have your own dog or dogs? If so what breed/crossbreed and what is his/her name?

I have Barry now, and so many others before that. Barry is a typical poubelle (garbage can that is), adopted from Spain.

What are the nicest character traits of your own dog?

In the beginning Barry was very frightened. he crawled against the walls and you could absolutely not look at him. at that time Alfred was still alive (my cross-breed Chihuahua), who was not afraid of anything. in fact; he thought that everyone should be afraid of him! a real daredevil. that helped Barry enormously. Alfred really taught him that he was safe with me and that he could trust me. that Barry could be petted and that the leash didn't have to be scary. Barry came out of his shell because of that. after 6 months Alfred died very suddenly. that made Barry anxious again, but he felt safe with me and therefore really focused on my instructions. it has made our bond strong, we are a real team.

It was pretty empty without Alfred and I was in doubt about getting another dog. when I saw Petbnb, it seemed like the perfect solution. for me and for Barry. this way I don't always have to have 2 dogs, but I also get to know new people. Barry can slowly get used to the idea that he does not only have to focus on me. that makes him more independent, he can be alone more easily. plus he can play with several new friends.

What was/were your cutest babysitting dog(s)? and why?

there are 2 special dogs that I have a special bond with. one because I was able to make the owners realize that he is not as dangerous as they thought (they were afraid that he had changed because of the arrival of the baby, but it turned out that it was precisely the fear of the young parents that the dog sensed). the other dog has become Barry's best friend. the enthusiasm with which the two greet each other is heartwarming to me. in addition, the owner has now become a fine friend.

How do you find out if there is a good match with the dog and the owner during an introduction?

In many cases, you can see immediately what the bond is between owner and dog. that says a lot about behavior in a home situation. but Barry is also a fantastic indicator. he is very patient and very tolerant, so when he gives off a growl, I know immediately that the dog in question is not a good match.

Did you also learn new things through babysitting?

1) in the beginning, i said yes to everyone. it seemed like fun and i didn't see a problem so easily. the latter is still somewhat true, but i did learn to slow myself down. especially if you go on long hikes, it's good to have a day off once in a while too.

2) 'listening' to Barry.

Favorite dog walking spot & why?

the various forests in the Rotterdam area. there dogs can roam freely. and there is often a small lake, where they can swim or romp in the sand.

What tips & tricks would you pass along to other babysitters for good babysitting?

1) owners often think their dog is well behaved, well trained or calm. however, the new environment and the lack of that owner can make the dog react very differently when he is with you. a dog is fun, but if you have to run after him all day or there is no moment of rest in the dog, the fun is quickly gone. (and sometimes owners aren't completely honest either) so that's really a tip to future sitters: watch yourself and follow your instinct.

2) have a clear backup for owners going abroad on vacation. something may arise with the dog, as well as with you. some owners do not fill out the questionnaire completely and then you are in trouble when the need arises/dog.

What else would you like to add to Petbnb?

for now nothing, maybe an app

   

Got excited after this story? Quickly check out Viola's Petbnb ad and see if she still has a spot available for your dog!

https://www.petbnb.nl/hondenoppas/nederland/rotterdam/pet-breakfast-2729

Curious about more stories from our babysitters? Read Domien's story here

Dog whisperer Domien on his petsitting experiences - read it here!

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