“What began as one dream softened into another — not lesser, only truer.”
About us
If you are wondering why the name, Waltzing Willow, it’s because we wanted a name that moved. That swayed. The willow represents flexibility, grace, and resilience… like so many of the animals we have met. They bend, but do not break.
Waltzing is a gentle nod to a lifelong love —to dance, and the rhythm once believed to shape the road ahead. But the steps began to change, guided by something quieter, deeper. What began as one dream softened into another; not lesser, only truer. One that had always lived beneath the surface, quietly taking root. It is the heart of a dream still unfurling.
We currently offer in-home pet sitting, dog walks, and wedding-day dog chaperoning, with full-service boarding and a dedicated animal rescue already in the works. Every step is guided by love and quiet purpose, gently shaping a space where animals are safe, seen, and deeply cherished. It is the rhythm we move to, and the heart behind the name, Waltzing Willow.
In-home Pet Sitting
Some pets thrive where their paws already know the floorboards; in the comfort of their own home. Our in-home pet sitting offers gentle, thoughtful care while you’re away, from feedings and walks to mail collection and house checks. More than sitters, we’re quiet companions — moving at your pet’s pace, offering calm presence, playful breaks, and all the little things that keep a home humming in your absence. So you can leave, knowing love stayed behind.
Our services
Dog Walks
Each dog has a rhythm all their own — a tempo found in every wag, sniff, and step. Our walks are never rushed. They’re quiet explorations, joyful trots, curious wanderings. Whether your pup prefers a breezy neighborhood stroll or a lively romp through the park, we match their pace, honor their needs, and meet them where they are. Because to us, a walk isn’t just a walk; it’s time well-spent, leash in hand, heart open.
Wedding Day Dog Chaperones
Your love story wouldn’t have been complete without them — we know, because ours wasn’t either. When we got married, having our dogs by our side was essential. Beautiful. And also… hard. Between the joy and the chaos, we had no one to help; no one to hold the leash while we held each other. That’s why this offering means so much to us. With our wedding day dog chaperone service, your dog can be part of the celebration — without the stress. From potty breaks to aisle walks, photo ops to post-vow snuggles, we’ll be there to care for them while you say I do. Your forever includes them too.
From Our Clients!
“I had the pleasure of hiring Sammie and The Dog's Tale to look after our dog, cat and home while we were away, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the experience. Sammie demonstrated a level of professionalism and care that exceeded my expectations. From the moment we discussed the arrangements, Sammie was organized, punctual, and very attentive to all the details. Sammie took excellent care of our pets and home, ensuring that everything was maintained just as I had left it. I returned to a spotless house, with all tasks I requested, handled impeccably. Communication throughout my time away was clear and timely. Sammie provided updates and promptly responded to any questions or concerns I had, which gave me great peace of mind while away. I highly recommend Sammie and The Dog's Tale to anyone in need of a reliable and trustworthy house sitter. I would not hesitate to hire The Dog's Tale again in the future.”
Anne Furniss
"We cannot recommend Sammie & Jorge enough as trustworthy house sitters and caretakers to our fur babies! We have used The dogs Tale for in-home house sitting at least 6 times over the last 2+ years to watch over our mostly blind senior cat and 2 large-breed rescue dogs that need long walks. They have wonderful communication and send adorable pictures and videos of our pets while in their care, and it is obvious that all our animals absolutely adore them (our grumpy doesn’t even let me pick him up, but loves when Jorge picks him up for cuddles) Upon our return we have always found our house to be clean and well kept- often cleaner than we left it! We are so grateful to have found a trusted, dependable source for pet care which allows us to travel stress-free knowing our fur babies, home, and even our house plants are being well taken care of in our absence. I am happy to serve as a reference and answer any questions one might have as a prospective client!"
Brittany Herbert
“I have been a long time client of Sammie and Jorge. My Great Pyrenees Bria and my funny Siamese cat Jack were in need of in home care while I traveled. They were senior animals and needed extra care. Medications, feeding schedules and of course like all animals someone to understand their unique behaviors. I definitely got that with Sammie and Jorge. Their knowledge is one thing, but their compassion and love for all living beings (including the parents of said animals) is what shines through most. They are trusted and reliable!”
Tami Traeden
“We had the pleasure of having Samantha stay overnight in our home on a couple of occasions to watch our greyhound and two cats. She sent us update photos while we were away and she clearly bonded in a short period of time with our elderly greyhound which made us very comfortable and able to enjoy our time away from home. We would recommend Samantha to anyone who wants to be able to actually enjoy themselves when they leave their animals. She can handle large, challenging dogs who get up during the night to be let out to pee, as well as needy-yet-obnoxious cats.”
David B. Loder
Licensed and insured
Waltzing Willow is licensed and insured, and services Lake Oswego, West Linn, and other areas. All consultations are in person and typically take 15 to 30 minutes.