About two and a half years ago my dog Sophie became a part of my life and, though it was quite an adjustment at first, she proceeded to change my life in more ways than I could ever imagine.  When she reached six months of age, I knew that for her to be a happy and fulfilled dog she needed more exercise than I could ever give her walking on a leash.   (and we were walking a lot!)

It was at this point that I began to search out every possible place in the city for us to explore together.  Places that were safe for her to be off leash and places she could run fast and run far. As a native Richmonder, I had to admit to myself that my knowledge of the local parks and trails was embarrassingly lacking. I asked around, did some research and began investigating a new place each day.  I knew I had this dog who was suited to country life that I was trying to make into a city dog so some compromises were in order if everyone was to be happy.   I committed to going for a long hike every day, which wasn’t always easy. However, when we would get back in the car after a long walk and Sophie would pass out in the front seat or I saw her goofy expression as she was running towards me on the trail, it was totally worth it.

It was during these long walks that I began to think how all dogs have this need and how lucky was I that I had the time and energy to devote to her.  In our super busy lives, not all people have this luxury.  A few months ago, this wonderful opportunity came my way to work for Canine Adventure.  I truly believe I have one of the best jobs on the planet.  There is nothing that makes me more content  than walking down by the river with two or more happy dogs running back and forth on the trails next to me. 

In my previous life, I was an elementary school teacher in Australia for 5 years and after that  a nanny for 7 years before becoming a pet sitter and dog walker.  These jobs certainly gave me the foundation for patience and for not taking myself too seriously, critical when working with dogs!  When I’m not walking with my dog or your dog I love to read, am a fairly decent cook, and an amateur gardener.

Sophie is a 2 ½ year old German Shorthaired Pointer.  She loves hiking, riding in the car, and rolling in dead things.  She hates squirrels, rabbits, chipmunks,  pigeons, and baths.

Sophie gets along with just about any dog, she loves having a big group of dogs head out on the trail with her.  She likes to be the lead dog, but she also loves to have another dog compete with her for the front of the pack!

She has become my constant companion and is one of my best buddies, furry or otherwise.