Joanne H.
Joanne H.
Contact for Drop-In Visits
£14 total per visit
Highlights
Pet care experience
Calm, responsible cat care
I am a reliable, calm cat-lover with 8 years of experience cat-sitting informally for friends and family. Previously, I was a ‘cat socialisation’ volunteer for the Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary, helping rescue cats adapt to domestic settings. So I understand the importance of giving the cat time and space to get to know me, and always let them to go at their own pace. I also have plenty of experience cleaning up cat vomit and furballs! I grew up with pet cats until age 18 and learnt to care for them as a child. Then in adult life, I specifically sought out house-shares where cats were present because I find their presence and company so valuable! I have lived with all types of cats from kittens to elderly cats, and I love getting to know their individual personalities. Since I am not in a position to have my own pets at home at the moment, I've decided to join this platform to spend time with cats elsewhere. I look forward to meeting you and your furry felines friends soon! :)
Qualifications
Safety, trust & environment
As a 40+ year old, I am a mature, responsible pet-sitter who takes the role seriously. I understand that pet owners can feel nervous about leaving their pet (and their home) with a stranger, so I always try to make sure we meet or speak beforehand and get clarity on any instructions or important details regarding food, medication, litter tray cleaning etc.. This way, the pet owner can feel at ease and enjoy their trip without worrying. I also provide regular updates with photos and these can be daily if requested. During home stay arrangements, I am very happy to assist with other household tasks such as emptying bins and watering plants (in fact, I am quite green-fingered!). As a respectful house-guest, I always leave the pet owner’s house exactly as I found it and clean up any mess.
Ratings and reviews
Jo is a wonderfully kind and caring person, with such beautifully calm energy! We felt completely at ease from the first meet and greet. She was very attentive and followed all instructions perfectly, taking exceptional care of our deaf cat Blade for 4 nights, keeping him safe, comfortable and entertained. Our home was spotless when we returned and Blade looked super happy and relaxed. Even my plant babies were happy, thanks to Jo’s green fingers and thoughtfulness! Blade clearly loved her, and we wouldn’t hesitate to have her back again :)
Jo has looked after our house and cat on multiple ocassions, for a week or two at a time, and always does a fantastic job! With our kitty, she is loving, kind and caring. She is careful to follow instructions when it comes to food, water and playing. But she also respects our cat's unique personality and anxious nature, giving her space, patience, alone time, and company when needed. Kitty always seems very well looked after and happy when we return. Jo also does a great job of looking after our house, keeping it clean, tidy and organised. She brings her own bedding, food and supplies when needed, respects our space and follows all instructions diligently. Thanks Jo for being such a saviour when we're away!
Jo is a huge cat lover. She has house sat our cat many times when we have been away on holiday. Now we have new kittens and she has been looking after them too. She knows a lot about cats and what they need, gives them plenty of affection and play and is reliable and kind.
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
Currently, I have a lot of flexibility in my schedule so I can fit in a lot of cat care visits. If the location is close, I am happy to visit daily, but if it is 4 miles+ away, I would prefer a house-sitting/ home stay arrangement if possible, to avoid the costs of driving back and forth. Likewise, if the pet owner is away for longer than 4 consecutive days, I would prefer the option of overnight stays.