Live-In Pet Sitting

g SIT

Emmy Scammahorn is an independent pet sitter with more than eight years' experience.

g STAY

Live-in care—starting at $60 a night—for your pet in your home

g SPEAK!
Pets "speak" in a free online photo blog or journal

The pet sitter pets would call, 
if pets could call.

Why Choose Live-In Care?

Kennels are crowded and noisy. Animals can be exposed to diseases such as kennel cough. Studies show that pets that live at home during their owners' absence are safer and less stressed. A round-the-clock presence will help keep loneliness at bay for your pet.

Why Choose "Emmy the Pet Sitter"?

Emmy offers a rarity in the Washington, D.C., area—reasonably priced, dependable live-in pet care in your home. For $60 you get exclusive 24/7 care for one pet. (For more than one pet, see Rates and Services, right.) There's no extra charge for giving medications, pet-related errands, and holidays. Check the schedule (below) for availability.

A lifelong pet owner and animal lover, Emmy worked briefly in a vet's office, where she learned to give medications and intramuscular shots. She is certified in American Red Cross: First Aid for Cats and Dogs and has practiced basic equine care. Emmy had a long career as an editor/producer at National Geographic. She enjoys Western riding, travel, photography and writing. As for a sense of humor . . . she never leaves home without it.

Unfortunately, arthritis in one knee makes stairs difficult, and Emmy can only work in homes with a bathroom on the first floor. She is comfortable walking dogs, however. 

Before You Go

At an introductory visit, you and Emmy review the needs of your pets and your home. Plan to sign a Veterinary Release Form, which your vet may have on his or her web site.

While You're Away

Emmy follows your pet's routine and your training methods. Your pet's life goes on as usual and you have peace of mind. She takes out the trash, recycles, waters plants and your yard, cleans areas of pet waste, and handles any other household needs.

To keep you updated, Emmy posts photos on Facebook and Twitter. She also creates an online story about your pet—free! Choose either a daily blog or a journal.

Schedule

In 2013, Emmy is available all but the following dates:
• May 16–26
• July 2–28
• August 11–14
• August 21–25

Testimonials

If you want to talk to references, call or email Emmy at escammahorn@hotmail.com.

If my dogs could speak (and I think they DO speak to Emmy) they would tell you they love it when we go away because it means Emmy comes to stay with them. I never have a moment’s worry when Emmy is on the job. She cares for Arlo and Darcy with warmth and affection. She loves them as much as I do. ~ Brenda M., Falls Church, Virginia

Sight unseen and just speaking over the phone, Emmy worked out well. My dog, Coco, thoroughly enjoyed her. I was able to keep in touch when I was away. All went very well. Her blog about Coco is priceless. It is obvious she is an editor and a very good one. I plan to share it and print it for keeping and also as a history reference. ~ Gloria H., Prescott, Arizona

Emmy is an extraordinarily responsible, caring, and thoroughly competent house and pet sitter. Our beloved 16 year-old family Dachshund has been blind for several years—she has come to think of Emmy as she would a family member, and the feeling is clearly reciprocated. My wife and I and the three kids can rest easy when we are away that the family's 'oldest sibling' is going to be perfectly fine, and that our house will be secure and clean, as well, for our return. (For peace of mind, she is worth her proverbial weight in gold, which is worth a lot* these days.) ~ Tom G., Alexandria, Virginia

We have a full house: 5 dogs (including 2 senior citizens, one of whom is very grumpy), 4 cats, and an outside feral cat that we take care of. Emmy cared for everyone in April 2011. She was wonderful, and took good care of everyone. Emmy is very trustworthy, totally organized, and I would recommend her to anyone who needs in-home care of his or her animals. ~ Elizabeth P., Washington, DC

Thank you so much for caring for my family while I was away. The dogs were much less anxious than usual when I got home, which tells me they were content with their substitute mom. I can’t tell you how great it felt knowing you were in charge. They will be thrilled to see you again. ~ Juanita H., Maryland

We LOVE the blog!!! What a talent you have for “channeling” the furballs’ thoughts. You of all our surrogate dog-parents got the most amazing shots of the "kids"! We have shared your blog with friends who know the “kids” and they love it too. I can't tell you how much we miss the little munchkins...but they are in good hands and that's all that matters (and getting brushed far more than they did when we were there!! This homecoming was all the better for everything you did to keep it going and happy while we were away [for a month]. Deepest thanks. ~ Susan M., Colorado Springs, Colorado

Michelle H., owner of a ranch in Prescott, Arizona, can talk with you about Emmy's work with her Arabians. Contact Emmy if you would like to speak to Michelle.