Experienced pet caregiver now offers in-home cat services

Denise Irwin of Lewes has been caring for area pets for more than 25 years - first as Home Away From Home Kennel for 24 years, and for the past three years, dog grooming for dogs less than 65 pounds as Sandy Paws Pet Spa.

She is now adding a new aspect of pet care, specifically for cats. She has launched a new business, The Kitty Sitter, and will come to clients' home once a day to care for their cats while they are on vacation.

“I still firmly believe that dogs are so much happier and safer in a kennel situation, but cats can do well at home by themselves with someone just checking in once a day or less. I will not compete with the quality boarding kennels in our area by caring for dogs, but cats are different. Dogs prefer to be around other dogs, while cats are content to be home alone,” Irwin said.

She brings more than 30 years of experience caring for cats, first in a shelter environment, then in the kennel situation, and has cared for more than 12 cats of her own over the years. She is fully licensed, bonded and insured and a member of Pet Sitters Associates LLC.

She is also able to give pills to cats - not an easy feat - and has had experience giving injections, and administering fluids to elderly cats.

“I decided to launch this new business after hearing about an 'incident' a friend had with a local pet sitter. My first thought was: 'I can do better' and I immediately began researching licensing, insurance, and how to become bonded. I think the main thing people are looking for in a pet sitter is someone who is reliable and responsible if they are going to be coming into their home and caring for their cats,” Irwin added.

The Kitty Sitter can be reached at 302-542-1097, at the grooming shop number, 302-684-8576, or email Pets007@aol.com.