Ashley

Hi, I'm Ashley (she/her)!

I'm a postdoctoral fellow at the Canadian Museum of Nature & University of Ottawa. I study the lives of wild carnivores, focusing on how they grow and what that can tell us about their lifestyles and management. I also use information from the living to help me learn more about how extinct species grew, and what that can tell us about extinction risk. 

I volunteer with the Ottawa Humane Society as a foster for cats and with the Canine Enrichment department. I'm there to try and make the animals' stays with the humane society as pleasant as it can be before they find their forever home. As a volunteer, I have received Fear Free training. 

I have recently begun the journey toward becoming a certified animal behaviour consultant, which means I'd be able to help pet owners with behavioural issues and concerns. I am a Supporting Member of the International Association for Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC) and I'm learning more about animal behaviour and training every day.

I've been passionate about animals since I was a little kid, when I watched the Discovery Channel instead of usual kids' TV. I'm using that passion to pursue a career studying animals, and I'll use it to deliver the best care I can to your beloved pet!

I grew up around both cats and dogs, so have 20+ years experience with both their care. I have also been a pet sitter for both dogs and cats, all of which received excellent care and were treated as if they were my own. My house was the only one where one of my favourite house guests, a cat named Cat, settled right in as if he'd lived there his whole life! I have experience with diabetic cats and administering many types of medication, and I am not afraid to try new things.

At the moment I am offering house visits (once or twice per day). I am located in Westboro and can accommodate requests within a ~30 minute walk or transit ride. 

House visits will last a minimum of 30 minutes. Your cat(s) will get a top-up on water and/or food (depending on their needs) and litter box(es) will be scooped. They will get some loving and play time while I am there - please let me know if they have any favourite toys and/or peculiarities about how they like to be pet!