Lorna

Hello! My name is Lorna and I'm currently studying Veterinary Medicine as a mature student after completing my first degree at UCC. Please read on for details on services I can offer! I'm happy to care for both cats and dogs and have references for both :) I have worked as a veterinary assistant in a local clinic, and have spent time volunteering at a local cattery also. Of course I also have extensive placements in clinics as part of my degree.

Location and availability: I'm based near UCD and will be working around my college timetable so will likely mostly in the evenings to visit your pet, with some limited daytime availability. For house sitting, I can walk pets in the morning, sometimes at some point during the day, and in evenings :) My college schedule usually allows for me to either pop home for a visit, or to go home earlier in the day and study from there. Let me know your dates and hopefully we can work something out!

Growing up with pets, I'm well used to their quirks. I understand how to respect their boundaries, and can honestly say I treat my and other peoples' pets like royalty! I have only ever used positive, reward-based training methods with my pets and this is something I'm passionate about. I have a huge interest in behaviour and training so if your pet has a few quirks, is anxious, or even has special physical needs (my previous dog had 3 legs!), I am more than happy to work with what's best for them.

House sitting: I have been lucky enough to spend time house sitting and pet sitting abroad and it's always been a pleasure. I'm clean and respectful of people's homes and belongings! For now, I can only house sit in places within reasonable commuting distance of UCD. I love getting to spend time with animals when I'm missing my own! I can also water plants (my first degree was in plant biology 😅) and take in post if anything like that is needed.

Home visits: When visiting your pet I can feed them, play with them, cuddle them, bring them out for walks and toilet breaks, administer medication, etc. Please note for home visits for cats and dogs I usually anticipate spending about an hour with them (unless you want me to spend less time), I think it's really important they get interaction every day, hence my rate reflects this! :)

Dog walking: If your dog enjoys walks, I love being outdoors and I am happy to take them out for sniffs, a run, a game of fetch - whatever is their favourite. If they're more of a homebody I'm also happy to play games with them at home and provide enrichment there. Please note my rate is for an approximately 1 hour walk, if your dog needs lots more time please contact me and we can work out what suits :)

Cat sitting: I always make sure litter boxes and food dishes are immaculate and will always make plenty of time for cuddles and a check over to make sure your pet is feeling okay. Recently, I have also fostered and rehomed feral kittens, which are now total sweethearts thanks to some TLC. I love cats and I know they also have many quirks - I'll offer them space or cuddles, whichever they're in the mood for. 

Currently, my only pet is our family dog, Pluto, a rescue mutt who I miss a lot when I'm at college and on placement. He's a beeeautiful and unique looking collie cross!

I also understand the need to provide owner updates if desired - I am always asking for updates whenever I'm away from Pluto! 

I have always loved all animals and I really appreciate their individuality, they are never just a pet, they're a family member! I'm happy to follow your instructions to a T, and provide updates as we go. 

Thanks for reading, feel free to get in touch if you have any questions ☺️