House Sitting Branford Center

About: About Me Hi! I’m a recently retired teacher who loves cats, dogs, and the joy they bring to everyday life. I’ve owned both cats and dogs since age seven and truly enjoy spending time with animals, learning their personalities, and giving them plenty of attention and care. I currently have my own cat, so I’m unable to board pets in my home. However, I’m happy to care for your pets in the comfort and familiar surroundings of their own home and have schedule flexibility to provide pet visits that are convenient for you and your pet(s). I have recently retired from teaching and moved from Florida to Connecticut to be close to my son, daughter-in-law, and beautiful new granddaughter. My schedule is very flexible and I would love to meet some new pets to give my care and attention. Retirement has given me a flexible schedule, and I’d love to help care for your pets while you’re away. I’m available for: - Overnight stays in your home - Drop-in visits - Walks and playtime - Feeding, companionship, and routine care As a former teacher, I’m responsible, patient, dependable, and attentive to details. I understand how important it is to feel confident that your pets—and your home—are in caring hands

“Although I hate to say this out loud for fear of them booking up too fast 🤫 they were wonderful… faced with wind, rain and a power outage not to mention a lively 9 month old pup, they took great care of him. They also shared some practical training tips! I would not hesitate to call on them again!”

Bethany T.

“We want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Heather for taking great of our pet yorkie Winnie while we were away. Winnie is 4.5 years old and we have never left him before, so finding the right person was very important to us. We wanted an experienced person who was willing to stay in our home for two weeks to care for Winnie. In Heather we found someone who is experienced, caring, consistently communicates and sends pictures. Heather kept us informed and responded to all our messages very quickly. That was greatly appreciated. It’s clear that Winnie loved having Heather take care of him. We came home to a happy pup and were impressed how clean our house was. We appreciate Heather’s attention, patience and support, as well as her willingness to stay in our home for two weeks. Everything was in perfect shape when we returned. It gave us peace of mind knowing Winnie was in experienced, capable and caring hands. Heather also went beyond just caring for Winnie by doing a variety of things around our house, including bringing in our mail daily. Heather did a great job.”

Joseph D.

“This was my first time using Rover, and Delaney exceeded all expectations. She shared daily photos, kept me in the loop with thoughtful updates, and delivered a truly five-star experience. I recommend her without hesitation—she’s wonderful, and my dog absolutely adored her!”

Julian D.

About: I’ve grown up in a home with dogs and have always been comfortable around them. I had a Labrador before, so I’m very familiar with daily care, routines, and spending time with dogs. I graduated from UC Davis with a degree in Animal Science in 2025 and also have some experience interning at a vet clinic, which helped me better understand animal health and behavior. Since summer 2024, I’ve been helping friends with dog sitting, walking, and boarding. I’ve done three long-term stays (over a month each), so I’m comfortable caring for dogs for extended periods and helping them settle in. I’m responsible, patient, and happy to send updates and photos while you’re away! I’m currently a student, but I have good availability in the mornings before 8am and in the evenings after 5pm, so I’m able to do walks and spend quality time with your dog during those hours. I’m also flexible on weekends and can adjust based on your pet’s routine. I’m happy to follow their usual schedule to make sure they feel comfortable and well cared for. I live in an apartment right now, but I make sure pets have a clean, safe, and comfortable space. I take dogs out for regular walks and make sure they get enough exercise, attention, and care throughout the day. I pay close attention to their behavior and always follow the owner’s instructions carefully, including feeding, routines, and any special needs. I’m also happy to send regular updates and photos so you can feel at ease.

“Jordan was fantastic. During the Meet & Greet, she asked all the right questions and it was very clear from the start that she is a professional who takes dog- and house-sitting seriously. We had her watched three large dogs for a full day and everything went smoothly. The dogs loved her and she kept us informed of how things were going. My daughter (two the three dogs were hers) also had high praise for Jordan. We will definitely seek out her services when we next need someone to watch Gracie.”

Rick M.

About: I have been taking care of animals for over 30 years! Never met an animal that didn't like me after meeting me. I know how to adapt to their vibe and usually end up with lots of puppy and kitty friends! I am very flexible and easy going. I love animals and it literally brings peace and joy to my life to be around as many as possible each day so if I am not with my own animals I would love to help with yours! I can stay over night for animals if needed. I am very flexible and trustworthy. I have animals and I know how they need us! I can drop in for potty breaks or I can take them for long walks and hang with them! I am very open to meeting your needs.

“It is a great feeling knowing that Matt is watching Lola. Matt sends us updates and photos the whole time. Lola always looks so happy. We know our girl is in good hands with Matt.”

Dawn M.

“Great experience. We had Ash stay overnight with our 2 dogs and guinea pigs and everything turned out as expected. She kept in communication with us and was very professional.”

Victoria C.

About: I've raised and cared for several breeds of dogs, large and small for about 20 years. I am a true dog lover and I believe its important to connect with them. I am very attentive to their needs. Body rubs and ear scratches are unlimited. I have experience with special needs pups as well. I do have experience giving medications if needed. I once was a volunteer and foster parent with Yorkie 911 Rescue. I also have experience with very shy dogs and I have extreme patience. My home is quiet during most of the day for those pups who need total relaxation or for those senior pups who just prefers quiet. I also have experience grooming small dogs up to 15 pounds. Dog care fits naturally into my daily routine because I work from home and can provide consistent supervision throughout the day. I can structure my day around the dogs’ needs, including feeding, potty breaks, playtime, walks, rest periods, and plenty of attention. I am comfortable maintaining a regular schedule and making sure each dog feels safe, comfortable, and cared for. I can also provide additional supervision and care throughout the week based on each dog’s individual needs and routine. My balcony is a clean, secure, and dog-friendly space where dogs can safely enjoy fresh air and supervised outdoor time. It includes a designated potty area, enclosed with strong netting with chicken wire. along with comfortable cots and lounging furniture where dogs can relax, have fresh air and sun bathe, The balcony is located directly outside my home office, where I work, allowing me to keep a close eye on the dogs throughout the day. Dogs are never left unattended on the balcony. I also have cameras throughout the apartment for additional monitoring and pet gates closing off forbidden areas. The space is kept clean, organized, and free of hazards, providing small/medium dogs with a comfortable and secure area to relax, play, and get some fresh air.

About: What services do you offer? I offer personalized pet care including pet sitting, overnight care, dog walking, feeding, playtime, exercise, and general pet care. I’m also happy to provide grooming and follow specific routines, medications, or care instructions when needed. What experience do you have? I have 10+ years of hands-on experience caring for animals, including dogs, cats, birds, fish, and reptiles. I’ve cared for family and friends’ pets and have experience working with different personalities, routines, and care needs. Why should you hire me? I’m dependable, attentive, patient, and genuinely love animals. I treat every pet as an individual and make sure they receive the attention, exercise, affection, and care they’re accustomed to while you’re away. Any special qualifications or training? I have extensive hands-on experience with a variety of animals and have trained my own pets. I’m comfortable reinforcing existing training and following your preferred methods and routines. What’s your availability? I have flexible availability and can accommodate overnight stays, regular visits, dog walks, and short-notice bookings when my schedule allows. Rate: $110/day Going away or need an extra hand with your pets? Message me with your dates and tell me a little about your pet—I’d love to provide them with loving, personalized care while you’re away! Pet care fits naturally into my routine because I’m an Airbnb host and property manager, which gives me a flexible schedule and the ability to manage my time around the pets in my care. I’m accustomed to being organized, responsive, and attentive to details while managing a property, coordinating guests, and maintaining a welcoming, well-kept environment. I also have 10+ years of hands-on experience caring for dogs, cats, birds, fish, and reptiles. I’m comfortable maintaining feeding schedules, providing exercise and playtime, handling daily routines, and giving pets plenty of companionship and attention. Because my work is flexible and largely self-managed, I can accommodate daytime visits, walks, extended stays, and overnight care. I’m able to structure my schedule around each pet’s routine rather than expecting them to fit around a rigid workday, which allows me to provide consistent, attentive care while their owners are away. Whether I’m caring for your pet in your home or mine, I focus on making them feel safe, comfortable, and well cared for. I follow their normal routine as closely as possible, including meals, walks, playtime, medications, rest, and bedtime, while giving them plenty of attention and companionship along the way. In your home, I’m respectful of your space and take pride in leaving things just as I found them. As an Airbnb host and property manager, I’m accustomed to being responsible, organized, and attentive to the details that make a home feel comfortable and well maintained. Most importantly, I take the time to get to know each pet individually. Some thrive on activity and attention, while others prefer a quieter pace and a little space. My goal is to provide thoughtful, dependable care that keeps your pet happy and comfortable—and gives you peace of mind while you’re away.

“Ellyana & Alexander went above and beyond to care for our beloved Frisby. Thank you! We had discussed some of Frisby's health issues before we left home but did not expect Ellyana to have to immediately deal (perfectly) with Frisby when she needed close care and attention. We got home asap to follow up and Frisby is ok. 5 stars plus to both Ellyana & Alexander plus taking care of all the basics of her care and special attention when she was ill.”

Rankin T.

“Merina was an amazing pet sitter. She left my home and my pets very happy! She was very professional and personable, kept in contact with me with how the animals were doing while we were gone, and I can’t wait to book her again!”

Miri N.

“Ty was great with our puppy. I think he was actually sad we came home. Haha. Luckily we’ve booked him for when we leave again this upcoming week!”

Kristen C.

About: I’ve had dogs from a very young age and have been taking of my own for many years. I have been currently work at a Daycare/Boadring Kennel for a few months now. I’ve also been taking care of a family friends dog whenever needed. I would say I’m very good with connecting with people’s dog, and I love all dogs I encounter. I am also majoring in Pre-Vet in hopes to become a Veterinarian so I’m trying to get as much experience as possible! Anything you need from me, I will be there! I’m currently working part time at a Daycare/Kennel, my schedule is a bit inconsistent but I do know exactly what days I work for the whole month and if I ever need to take off to better fit your time frame, I am able to. The only thing I ask is to let me know in advanced! I am very gentle with my pets and other peoples pet. Your wish is my command! I am an athletic person myself so I do enjoy playing with my dogs, and my clients dogs as much as I can. I will be the best fit for whatever you and your dog needs!

“Alex was great! He watched or puppy for us while I had to get into the office. At the meet and greet he was very patient and Miles warmed up to him immediately. During the house sit Alex took him for a walk and sent plenty of photo updates. Our puppy seemed to love him and have a great time.”

Jess S.

About: I have experience caring for a variety of pets, including dogs and cats. My responsibilities have included feeding, providing fresh water, walking dogs, cleaning litter boxes and living areas, administering medications when needed, and ensuring pets receive plenty of exercise, attention, and affection. I am attentive to each pet's individual needs and prioritize their safety, comfort, and well-being. I am reliable, patient, and committed to providing loving, responsible care while owners are away. I’m currently unemployed while my children are in daycare and after school programs. Outside of appointments I’m free spending time with my cats and my females kittens I currently have 2 black cats. My female whom I rescued recently was pregnant and had 6 babies(3 weeks old) I’ve also had dogs and cats in my past. I love animals. My home is clean and organized.

About: I love the company of animals. I have always cared for my own pets, both dogs and cats (and also rabbits). Right now I live with and care for a beautiful orange tom cat that I call Buddy. I have also always cared for other people's pets -- neighbors, friends, family, and now clients. I am a retired kindergarten teacher and a mother of two (now grown) beautiful children and I have been told I have a very nurturing nature. I definitely bring that nature to my pet sits and very much look forward to getting to know and care for your sweeties! I am a graduate student currently working as an intern part time at a private mental health counseling clinic. My hours are flexible and some of my work is online so I am able to care for pets in the in between. I am happy to come to your home to stay with your pet in their own environment. I can also water plants, bring in mail, etc.

About: What sets me apart from other sitters is my strong background in animal health and professional husbandry. Through my experience shadowing veterinarians, I’ve developed a trained eye for animal behavior and wellness. I know how to recognize the subtle signs of when a pet is feeling "off" or needs extra attention. I also have professional husbandry experience working with mice in a laboratory setting. This background means I am incredibly detail-oriented, strictly adhere to feeding and medication schedules, maintain rigorous hygiene protocols, and have a gentle touch with delicate or timid animals. I currently work remote for Yale as a PhD student, which allows me a great deal of flexibility to prioritize your pet's needs. On weekdays, I am fully available except maybe a few hours throughout the week for walks, playtime, and feedings. My weekends are completely open for overnight boarding, ensuring your pup is never left alone for long periods and receives constant companionship and care. My home is a 'pet-first' environment where safety and mental stimulation go hand-in-hand. For my two cats, I maintain a strict vertical-space setup and regular 'puzzle feeding' to keep them engaged. I am highly experienced in managing slow introductions and reading subtle body language to ensure all animals feel secure. I maintain a chemical-free cleaning routine to protect sensitive paws and noses, and I’m diligent about 'double-door' safety to prevent escapes. Whether it's ensuring fresh water fountains are clean or providing a quiet, crate-ready retreat, I treat every guest with the same meticulous care I give my own cats.

“Bailey was great with our elderly golden retriever. When we got home he acted like we had never been away which is how I know he was treated well. She is responsive and kept good notes for each day’s events. Definitely will be using her again as long as our old boy is with us!”

Laura H.