Buddy Pet Sitting

In-home pet care by Katie Alford

Katie Alford with her dog sitting client Gary

Caring for your pets like they're my own. Experienced, compassionate, and focused solely on your animal's comfort, safety, and well-being.

In-Home Pet Sitting

This is my core service — I care for your pet in your home, where they feel safest. Whether you're away for a few days or a few weeks, your animal will receive consistent, loving, and attentive care on their terms and turf. I maintain their routine, keep them company, and provide detailed updates for your peace of mind.

“Katie has watched my beloved Sartre many times over the years and I can confidently recommend her without qualification. Katie is someone who knows and understands dogs, but more importantly, she loves them…

…My little buddy has been my guardian angel for over 12 years and I don't leave him with just anybody. With Katie, I know he'll be safe and looked after. That level of trust doesn't come easily for me and it says a lot that I've been able to place it in her.”

— Jeffrey Fong

WHAT SETS ME APART

Skilled.
Seasoned.
Fully Invested.

I’ve spent over 15 years pet sitting, fostering, rescuing, and working with dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments — from shy seniors and energetic puppies to reactive dogs and those with complex medical needs. My background includes serving as Executive Director at a Sonoma-based dog rescue, completing Best Friends Animal Society’s intensive three-month Running a Lifesaving Animal Sanctuary program, and founding Heart Dog Harbor — a nonprofit rescue dedicated to saving dogs from municipal shelter euthanasia lists and helping them find safe, loving homes.

I carry professional pet sitting insurance to ensure that you, your pets, and your home are protected while I’m in your care.

Will you bring your own dog with you?

Yes — I bring my dog Ruby (a 25 lb deaf mutt) with me during sits. She is crate trained, reliably potty trained, and always kept fully separate from your pets. I have extensive experience managing safe setups for dog-reactive pets and ensure a smooth, professional experience tailored to your animal’s needs. Happy to talk more if you have questions.

Ruby, Katie's deaf mutt, enjoying a day on the coast in Oakland

Kind, Practical Training Reinforcement

Though not officially certified (yet!), I’m actively training to become a dog trainer. If you’d like, I can reinforce calm, respectful behaviors during my stay at no extra cost. Think leash manners, polite greetings, and more — only if you request it.

Comfort with All Animals

While dogs are my specialty, I also have plenty of experience caring for cats and small animals. I’m happy to follow detailed care instructions for your feline or feathered family members.

Service Area

I’m based in Fairfield and provide in-home sitting throughout the Bay Area, including Napa, Sonoma, Solano, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. I have reliable transportation and am comfortable with a wide range of home types and property setups.

LET’S CONNECT

Tell me about your pet! I’d love to learn more about their needs and how I can help.

Client Love

  • “You would be lucky to have Katie care for your dog! She goes above and beyond to care for your baby.

    My sweet Tony was immediately comfortable and at home with Katie. I had mentioned that we were working on Tony's leash etiquette. When I came back from my trip, Katie gave me some walking tips with Tony. She is an incredible pet caregiver!”

    - Jen Levin

  • “Katie may be better with dogs than she is with people--and she's pretty damn good with people.

    Any time I need to leave my little one with anyone, she is the very first person I call, and if she can't do it, I will literally delay my plans until the next time she is available as I don't trust my dog with anyone else.”

    - Isabela Andrade-Regan

  • Lulu the dog and her family

    “Katie is literally a dog whisperer and is the most dog passionate person I know!

    She's watched my dog Lulu for us while we were away, and I had 10000% trust in Katie for not only taking care of Lulu's needs, but loving Lulu like her own pup! Katie is extremely knowledgeable of a variety of dog training methods for behavioral needs, and will keep a close eye on your pup all the time! She is so kind, reliable, communicative and passionate, and is one of the best.”

    - Selen Altiok & Joey Hiller

  • Moose, the young Brittany Spaniel looking happy after a long walk

    Katie managed our pack of three dogs of very different needs and personalities.

    She was great, I felt very comfortable leaving them with her. She was responsible and punctual. Dogs LOVED her. We will definitely use her again!

    - Sharon Pilmer