My name is Carmen and I would love the privilege of being able to pet-sit. In my everyday life I am a full-time social worker, but I love to care for animals in my spare time.
I have been a foster volunteer for both the Toronto Humane Society and the Toronto Cat Rescue for over 3 years now. I have had experience in caring for palliative-care cats, cats with special needs (neurological or mobility disorders) have learned to administer medication and have done a lot of work with under-socialized pets. I have been given training on how to care for cats and small mammals from the Toronto Humane Society. I am no stranger to caring for animals and genuinely love doing it.
I am happy to visit your pets in your home, I would be able to do so twice a day, and could spend a considerable amount of time with them (at least 40 minutes per visit). I am able to feed, groom and play/provide stimulating activities for pets, with ease. I am also living in a 1 bedroom apartment that overlooks the humber river and am happy to pet-sit your cats. I have my own sets of toys, grooming equipment, litter boxes and cat treats/catnip, meaning that you would not need to pack much to have them stay with me. The cats I have fostered love to spend their days looking out the window and running around the apartment chasing the animals that pass by. I have no pets of my own and therefore have no issue taking care of pets in my home, if you're looking for more consistent companionship and caretaking. I am also flexible and willing to stay with the pet in their own homes, to prevent the stress that may come from being alone for extended periods of time or being introduced into a new space.
I recognize that all animals have unique personalities, needs and boundaries and I'm happy to work with the pet-parents to make the absence a little easier for everyone. Pets are family and if their owners feel that they are cared for, it goes a long way to providing a happy home. I'm confident that I can provide excellent and professional care and support.
*I currently work from home and can board dogs for the next few months
Carmen was great! At our first meeting I felt completely at ease with leaving my cats in her care. When I got home my kitties looked great and happy. I would highly recommend Carmen!
Carmen is really sweet, responsible and so easy to communicate with. My cat has never come back home as relaxed as he did from Carmen’s place.
Can provide cats with medication (pilling, eyedrops, ear drops)
Am aware of accommodations that may be necessary for senior pets or larger pets.
Am knowledgeable in detecting signs of health issues in cats (stool rating, water consumption, abnormal behaviour that indicates other health issues, signs of colds, infections, injuries). Have worked with under-socialized and anxious pets (rodents and cats)
Am able to groom pets (brush, cut nails, clean areas that may get dirty/hard to be cleaned by animal), feed them based on dietary needs and provide adequate exercise based on energy levels, age and possible physical issues.
Have access to vets, pet stores and grooming services nearby.
My home can accommodate pets with mobility issues.
As a registered social worker who has recently worked with children, I have passed a vulnerable sector check.