Laura

As I romp towards semi-retirement, I look forward to seeing more of New Zealand. I LOVE all animals (not good with snakes or rats, though, sorry), but I am particularly experienced in dog ownership and care. I am a member of Animal Evac, and have done courses in animal rescue, and first-aid.
I am very fit and active, and have long walks every day that I'm not at work. I have had dogs all my life, since the age of 10. Currently I don't have my own dog. This was a conscious decision, as I wanted to be free to travel when I could. I have a cat, Bob, who was abandoned by the person we bought the house off, and two chickens, who are pets. I still have to buy eggs.
My career has been in the medical field, ultrasound scanning, teaching and research. I have been fortunate to travel overseas with my job.
I know how nerve-wracking it can be to leave precious pets in the care of other people. Owning animals can stop you doing things you would like to do. Taking care of them in their own home is by far the best way to keep them feeling safe and relaxed. They will always miss their pack, but not as much as being incarcerated in an unfamiliar, stressful place.