07/26/2026
📢 IMPORTANT NEWS: PLEASE READ 📢
I never thought I'd be writing this... at least not for a very long time.
After four incredible years of pet sitting, I've made the difficult decision to close my business on July 30th.
Truthfully, this business wasn't supposed to exist. I started pet sitting because I couldn't find a job elsewhere and needed a way to provide for my puppy. It was meant to be a temporary solution to a permanent situation. I always assumed I'd find a traditional job quickly, and that would be the end of it.
Instead, within a few short months, I fell in love with the adventure, the relationships, and all the animals that came with it. What started as a backup plan became my passion, and I found myself dedicating the next four years of my life to building this business. Along the way, I grew more than I ever imagined and was even able to pay my way through a certificate program that will allow me to begin my next adventure.
I had hoped to wind things down in phases, but life had other ideas, and a series of unforeseen circumstances forced my hand.
There are so many reasons behind this decision that I can't even begin to fit into one Facebook post. What I can say is that somewhere along the way, running a business started taking more from me than it was giving back. It wasn't a fun realization, and it certainly wasn't an easy decision.
To every single client who trusted me with your pets—thank you.
You didn't just hire me to feed your pets or let them outside. You trusted me with members of your family, welcomed me into your homes, and allowed me to build relationships with some truly incredible animals.
Your dogs greeted me like I was part of their pack. Your cats eventually decided I was acceptable. Your birds cheered me on, and the goats... well, rumor has it I'm still scratching their ears to this day. 😉
I got up at all hours of the day and night to care for senior pets. I learned everyone's routines, favorite treats, medication schedules, weird little habits, and all the tiny details that made them who they were. I stood in for owners who couldn't be by their pets' sides during illnesses and emergency vet visits, and I grieved alongside families when beloved companions crossed the Rainbow Bridge.
The 4 a.m. wake-up calls, muddy paws, potty breaks, sleepless nights, happy dances at the door, and those impromptu comfort cuddle sessions are things I'll miss more than I can put into words.
This business has been one of the greatest joys of my life, and closing it is something I've cried many tears over.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for every booking, every recommendation, every kind review, every Christmas card, every conversation, and, most of all, for trusting me with the animals you love. You gave me a career when I needed one most, but more importantly, you gave me purpose. I will never be able to thank you enough for that.
It has truly been an honor and a privilege to serve this community in such a unique way. I'm sure I'll see many of you around as I begin this next chapter, so please don't hesitate to say hello.
Give your pets an extra hug and kiss from me today. ❤️🐾
With all my gratitude,
Katiann Stone
Owner, Pet & House
