For the sensitive, spirited, and slightly bonkers

Calm care for pups with
big feelings

Some dogs are a bit more.

More sensitive, more clever, more chaotic, more emotional, more gloriously themselves.

Those are usually the dogs I end up with.

I spend time with dogs because I genuinely love understanding them — their quirks, routines, sensitivities, funny habits, and the strange little ways they navigate the world. Most of the dogs I sit later wander into my stories, reflections, or books in one form or another.

I work mainly with British expats and dogs who need calm company, steadiness, humour, and someone who actually notices them.

What it's like

I stay in your dog’s home and follow their rhythm so life feels familiar while you’re away.

Some dogs want adventure.
Some want predictability.
Some want cuddles.
Some want you to stop making eye contact while they process their emotions in the hallway.

I adapt to the dog in front of me.

You’ll get updates, photos, honest observations, and a dog who feels understood rather than simply “managed”.

Hester’s calm, steady approach with Pipa has been incredibly reassuring. She takes things slowly, respects Pipa’s space, and shows real commitment to building trust. After a few visits and garden sessions, Pipa gradually began to trust her and is now comfortable and confident in her care.

As a reactive-dog owner, I often feel unheard, but with Hester I feel genuinely listened to and understood. She is a wonderful listener and shares her expertise generously, which makes a real difference when navigating the challenges of an anxious or reactive dog.

Donna F, Overijse, Belgium

How it works

We have a chat first — with the dog involved, obviously.

You tell me about their quirks, routines, sensitivities, favourite walking routes, emotional support toys, and any strong opinions they may hold about umbrellas, scooters, or men in hats.

Then, if it feels like a good fit, I move in and keep life ticking along while you’re away.

Bazinga had been very ill, and we were anxious about leaving him. But we need not have worried! Hester took such great care of him — guiding him calmly through physio and hydrotherapy, adapting his walks to his recovery needs, managing his medication, and even taking him to his favourite local pub.

We could truly relax knowing he was in her hands and found a happy, relaxed chap when we got home. His physio even commented on the bond they had — saying if it had been her dog, she would have been very happy. It was so reassuring to know Hester was fully devoted to his wellbeing.

Michele O, Terheijden, the Netherlands

Why I keep doing this

Dogs make far more sense to me than most systems do.

Some teach patience.
Some teach boundaries.
Some teach surrender.
Some simply teach you not to leave a sandwich unattended for three seconds.

Either way, I learn something from every single one.

And honestly? I think they quite like being understood too.

CONTACT ME

What other pet parents
are saying

"Hester did the most fantastic job with our two dogs. They were so well cared for with regular updates which put our mind at ease. She left our home spotless! We can't recommend Hester enough and will absolutely ask her again!"

Emily D

"Hester was amazing. She sent us regular updates while we were away. The house was really tidy when we returned and Lola and Missy were so happy and calm. We felt at ease knowing that Hester was taking care of them. We're already booking her for a next holiday!"

Lucy & Dimitri

"I have two labs. The young one, Sandy, is lovely but needs a lot of exercise or she gets up to all kinds of mischief. Hester did a great job keeping her happy while observing the needs of her older sibling, Marley, who likes to take things a bit slower. I also appreciated Hester staying on top of Sandy's allergy and the updates and pictures while I was away."

Chris H

"Hester was wonderful and very flexible, taking over the last few days of our holiday from another sitter. Digby clearly loved her. At only 11 months old he's bouncy and cheeky but we found him calm and relaxed when we returned. Also, our house was wonderfully clean and tidy. We wouldn't hesitate to ask Hester back again!"

Freya K

"We couldn't bear to put Ralph into a kennel when we went on holiday and are so glad that we met Hester. She was so thorough with her advance visit, checklist and experience. It meant we could enjoy our holiday without worrying about our beloved dog. She took such good care of him that he really didn't want her to go. Thank you Hester for being such a good companion to our dog. We will definitely be giving you a call again!"

Chris B