5.0

Pets are cared for with their own comfort, and peace of mind of the owner, at the heart of the routine. As much as possible I try to ensure the pet's normal routine is not disturbed, which can help many pets when their owners are away. This is especially true for nervous cats and shy dogs who often need their own space, and I try not to pressure them into being in my company if they do not want it. On the other hand, confident cats and dogs can always get the scritches, belly rubs and play time they ask for! I believe it is very important to respect pets and owners boundaries. For example, if they're not allowed on the sofa with you, they're not with me either. This is all talked through at the meet and greet I insist on arranging before every booking to make sure we're all on the same page and the pets can meet me at least once before I stay with them. This also has the dual purpose of ensuring the safety of pets, property and myself. Understanding the personality and behaviours of pets in their own home helps to avoid unintended fearful reactions from those pets which may cause harm. I try to have as minimal an impact on the home as possible, leaving the home as I found it. Finishing up a visit involves ensuring that everything has been completed to a high standard, and the home is left in the condition expected by the owner. I am more than happy to perform small cleaning tasks to ensure the home is cleaned where pets may have made a hairy mess, as long as there is enough time to complete all of the required pet care tasks. If your pet is likely to make a mess, I usually recommend paying a little extra for each visit, or a couple of visits, to ensure I have enough time to care for your home as well as your pets.