About Sophia

~ 2023 DISCLAIMER:
I am open to overnight stays or long term sitting if our pets get along. Please note, I am mostly looking for ongoing (multiple occasions) and repeat customer bookings in 2023. Unfortunately, I am unable to take enquiries about once-off stays due to my university commitments this year. Thank you for understanding. ~

Hi. I’m a 31 year old PhD student at UTAS Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies. I grew up with pets and followed this passion into a marine ecology career. I studied marine biology which also involved training in animal physiology. I have a strong passion for nature and wildlife photography so you may benefit from some curated pictures of your pet (instagram: @sophtopaws)!

We have a large fenced in garden, plenty of space for zoomies and two spare rooms for building a cosy safe space. There is also a dog park down the street and our property opens (via fence) to a small private beach. Walking opportunities aplenty!
We live close to the airport and on the route towards Tassies popular East Coast, about 30mins from Hobart by car.

My dog Boris is an excited hound with lots of playful energy! He sleeps in his crate in the living room but is otherwise allowed to roam and spread out on the couch during the day.
If you have a bird or otherwise cage-homed animal I would ensure to have their cage in our lockable guest room for safety. We also have flyscreens on key doors and windows to ensure a safe indoor environment. No doggy door but I am highly attentive and always ensure to give dogs many opportunities for outdoor time. If your pet goes out on lead in the dark before bedtime, then we will too!

I will provide highly personalised service for your pet. Our own dog was quite the handful when he was younger and still is super excitable, which can be perceived as overbearing. I am happy to handle young excited pups, large hounds and active working dogs.
I have previously owned and cared for cats and birds and have received basic undergrad training in animal biology. Through my studies, I also have gained expert knowledge in wildlife ecology and received field training in the handling of wild animals. This makes me feel in tune with the behavioural cues and boundaries of any living creature....