About Us

Why “Birds of a Feather and Friends”? Yes, I do specialize in avian care in addition to dogs/cats and various “critters”. But I want to appeal to the concept of not only dogs, but birds and all other family pets as a community of animals owners/lovers with a common goal.....caring for our additional family members in the best possible manner. There are many pet/dog care and dog walking services which have coined a name considered more obvious or appropriate to the canine community..... and I have had much commentary also made with regard to re-naming my business to gear it more toward dogs. I want to express something a bit more....

Actually, stated in full context, the expression “birds of a feather flock together” means that people who are a lot alike tend to gather together or congregate and become friends. This is a proverb which has been in use since the mid 16th century and expresses my feelings with regard to pet owners....this is the premise for my business and its name. I believe pet owners are a special group (or breed, if you will) of people who tend to associate with pet owners of like mind concerning their pet(s)’ care, needs and emotional support.

It is a concern to find the proper person to care for one’s pet(s) and this prompted me to create my business, Birds of a Feather and Friends, in 2004 trying to satisfy a growing need in the community for in-home pet care and training services. My goal is to provide more personalized attention to pets in their own familiar home environment including daily care, walks, play time, training and special care needs. As a pet owner since childhood, I am familiar with many types of training. I am an honors graduate of Animal Behavior College School of dog Training (ABC) and have worked with shelter dogs, puppies and dogs with behavioral issues.

I believe in positive reinforcement in training. There are always exceptions to the rule, but most dogs are looking to please and need some form of guidelines and structure in their lives. Think of similar human scenarios – a spoiled child with no guidelines, structure or restrictions often times results in unacceptable behavior. Likewise, the same may be said for our pets and dogs in particular. It is our responsibility as the owner(s) to provide a loving and secure home, but one with guidelines and structure so our pet is happy and secure in the knowledge of what is expected of him/her within the family unit and the community. The home environment is where many issues come to light and so is the ideal setting for training and behavioral changes to occur.

I am a confirmed adoption advocate, as supported by the majority of my own pets....there are many dogs and other pets out there waiting for a good loving home. My two dogs, Sprite and Stitch, and 3 of the 5 birds in my home are adopted and/or have had previous owners.

I believe in providing care/training services to pet owners within the safety and comfort of their own home. Socialization is also an important factor in a pet(s)’ life, but that is up to the owner to provide and there are many opportunities for that within the community. Many animals do well in boarding facilities, but I believe there are many more pets who, for various reasons, do not and are much less stressed in their own familiar surroundings. It is my hope to provide the individual care for these family members.

I am insured and bonded, a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) and am a member in good standing of the ASPCA .