PET SITTING Kitties & Puppies Need Not Be Alone By Christina Barr Staff Writer, Connected Now, Inc. I remember the days when I rode my bike down the street to feed the neighbor's cat, Fatzo. It didn't happen very often, but I loved the responsibility bestowed upon me. I also loved the clinking of the quarters when they dropped into my hand for a job well done, even though according to my father I wasn't supposed to take any money for the "favor." To me it was an important job, and if they felt I did well enough to deserve some compensation, who was I to say no? I think the best part of the gig was getting to play with Fatzo and give him treats and let him know that even though his usual crowd was gone for a few days, I was there to keep him company. It's not that I was this poor animal deprived little girl (we had four cats and a dog and lived on a farm), I just love animals and being with them. Not all pet owners have the luxury of the neighborhood kid to feed their lil' furries when they're out of town. For those people who are too busy to interview people to watch their pet, who don't want to bother their friends or family anymore, or who aren't keen on kennels, there is a solution! Annabie's Pet Sitting has a custom-tailored service that's right for you. Ann Hutchison has loved and cared for animals of every shape and size for years. Previously working with animal rescue, Ann left to pursue her passion...caring for pets when Mommy and Daddy are away, like a true babysitter. Annabie's has been in business for four years and their mission is to give your pet that much-needed companionship and care in your home while you are away. Ann feels it is easier on all parties concerned when the pets get to stay in their familiar environment, their normal routines uninterrupted. Her rates start at $18 for a once-a-day visit, either in the morning or evening according to your preference. She will spend the night with your pet for between $45 and $75, depending on you and your pet's specific needs. She'll even take them to the vet, the park or the groomer if you don't have time. And she's not limited to cats and dogs...she can handle the whole farm! You might wonder what, exactly, a pet-sitter does with your pet other than feed them. For a basic once-a-day visit, Ann will spend anywhere from a half-hour to an hour and a half with your pet, playing with them, walking them if that's what they want, giving them extra love and attention while you're away. She spends quality time with the animals, caring for their specific needs, but also catering to their wants. If your kitty wants to play fetch (and believe it or not, some do!) she'll play fetch. If your rabbit wants to chase her around the house, she'd start running! Annabie's Pet Sitting is more than just feeding and cleaning up after animals... it's loving and caring for your pets the way you do. Annabie's has several clients already (somewhere around one hundred), and grows mainly through referrals. There are several competent pet sitters available through Annabie's, and they give only the best service to those special members of the family. It is a very personal service, and Ann likes to go the extra mile by sending birthday and Christmas presents to her clients (the pets, not the people. Ann has even gone so far as to help people through the difficult time when a pet passes away. And when someone is ready to adopt a new pet, she is right there to help find just the right fuzzy face to warm their hearts once again. If you would like to contact Annabie's Pet Sitting for a quote or for more information, please visit her website at www.connectsac.com/pets or call Ann at (916) 224-5675. 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