Hi, I’m Kate. I’m 38 and I live in a lovely little hamlet in the countryside near Tiverton. I grew up on a farm and have always had a lot of animals in my life, so being around them has always felt very normal and natural to me. My partner and I have four rescue dogs and three cats of our own and, between home, rescue work and pet care, most of my days tend to involve dogs and cats in one way or another! I previously worked in mental health nursing, but over the last few years I’ve found my way back to the thing I loved most growing up, caring for animals. I now work hands-on with dogs and cats in rescue and I’m studying towards a Level 6 Diploma in Dog Training and Behaviour. Through rescue work, fostering, my own animals and pet care, I’ve gained experience with a really wide range of personalities, behavioural needs and health conditions. I regularly care for both dogs and cats who are anxious, nervous, elderly, recovering from illness, taking medication or simply need a little more time and understanding around new people. I’m very used to observing behaviour, noticing when something seems a little different and adapting how I interact depending on what that individual animal is comfortable with. I mainly offer dog walks and drop-in visits at the moment, with both dogs and cats making up a significant part of the animals I look after. I really enjoy being able to get to know them and their own individual personalities. Some dogs want a good walk and plenty of exploring, while others are happiest having a slow sniff somewhere quiet. Some cats will be waiting at the door for a fuss, while others would much rather watch me from a safe distance for the first few visits. I’m completely happy with either, and will always allow them to do whatever is most comfortable for them. Before looking after your pet, I’ll make sure I understand their normal routine, behaviour, health needs, food, medication, likes, dislikes and any little quirks that are important and individual to them. I think the small details make a huge difference, particularly with animals who are older, anxious, sensitive or very attached to their usual routine. With dogs, I use a positive, reward-based approach and I’m very comfortable with those who need a little more thought on walks. That might mean choosing quieter routes, allowing lots of time to sniff and explore, avoiding known triggers or following training that you already have in place. Equally, if your dog loves a longer, more active walk, I’m very happy to get out and explore with them too. I really enjoy cat care as well and have a lot of experience with cats of different ages, temperaments and health needs. I’m happy caring for confident, sociable cats as well as those who are shy, elderly, cautious or need medication. I’m also very conscious that cats often appreciate things being done on their terms, so I’m never going to force interaction with a cat who would rather have some space. Sometimes the best visit for them will be a feed, litter tray tidy, and spending a quiet half hour in the room until they decide I’m worth investigating! Drop-in visits can be completely tailored to what your animals need. I can feed, refresh water, give medication where appropriate, clean litter trays or animal areas, let dogs out, provide enrichment, play, offer company or simply spend some calm time with them so they are not alone. I’m also comfortable caring for rabbits, rodents, birds, horses, goats and exotics, so homes with a bit of everything are very welcome. I’m always happy to arrange a meet and greet beforehand. I think it’s really useful for both people and pets. You can show me exactly how you like things done, and your animals have the opportunity to meet me while you’re there and without any pressure. It also gives me the chance to learn how they communicate, what they enjoy and anything they might find difficult. I know how hard it can be to trust somebody else with your animals. I’m the same with my own, so I take that responsibility seriously. I’ll always treat your pets and your home with respect, and I’m very happy to keep you updated with messages, photos and videos while you’re away. If there are any little extras while I’m there, like watering plants or bringing in post, I’m always happy to help with those too. Kate x