My name is Crystal, I'm 42 years old and an animal lover through & through. I grew up with three British shorthair cats named Willow, Mickey and Charlie, two terrapins, 27 budgerigars and a guinea pig in Brighton. I am very familiar with the needs of these types of animals, alongside experience with rescue dogs and an extra special fondness for cats. 

I have been pet sitting for over a decade through various sites and private bookings, and understand that each animal has their own individual cares and needs. I very much respect every animal's boundary - if they want cuddles and play, I am there; if they prefer to be left alone, that is noted. Either way, I am always there for them.

I have over 15+ solid references outside Pawshake that I am also happy to share with you, although i have two regular clients here who have left me some lovely reviews. 

Alongside pet sitting, I am both very clean and tidy, so you can rest assured your home will be well taken care of while you are away if I am house sitting also. If you need me to attend to a garden or allotment, I also have experience in both the UK and Dubai climates (where I lived for some time).

I am very interested in environmental causes, including sustainability, marine conservation and eco-friendly living. In 2024, I worked for Naankuse Foundation, a sanctuary reserve for rescued and injured animals in Namibia. Here I was involved in feeding, cleaning, development/rehabilitation training, and research projects. I worked with the K9 dogs, cheetahs, rhinos, elephants, caracals, farm animals, horses, meerkats, baboons and much more - an incredible experience.

In December 2022, I worked at the Galbokka Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Centre in Sri Lanka, where I looked after injured turtles and helped with their marine life conservation efforts. A beautiful humble and helpful project.

I work online for a retail company Monday to Friday - so your pet and home will have lots of company if I am staying. 

For walks and drop ins I can do between 5.30am - 7.30am and anytime after 6.30pm Mon - Fri. Weekends anytime. 

I share pictures and videos every few days of how we are getting on, unless a certain preference is specified.

I am here to answer any questions you have and will require a short video call or meet up before every booking is confirmed.