Spring 2008 - National Association of Professional Pet Sitters

NAPPS offers its members
many valuable benefits
including:
NEW
• A Voice in the Association
• Prestige and Professionalism
• Exposure
• Code of Ethics
• Networking
• Bonding Insurance — discounted rate
• Liability Insurance — discounted rate
• Access to Health Insurance
• 800# Pet Sitter Locator
• Online Pet Sitter Locator
• Website
• Annual Conference & Trade Show
• Quarterly Magazine
• Certification Program
• Ezine
• Virtual Library
• Sample Press Releases and Materials
• Business Forms
• Listserv
• Monthly Mentoring Teleconferences
• Publications & Videos
• Trade Show Support
• Credit Card Processing
• Lexis Nexis Background Screening
• New Member Teleconference
• Complimentary Marketing Consultations
NAPPS is continually looking for ways to improve the
association for its members and the
industry. So look for
more important
member benefits
coming soon!

Table of Contents
ASSOCIATION NEWS
Member Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Committee Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Get to Know Your Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
NAPPS Member Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Conference Wrap-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
New NAPPS Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
INDUSTRY EDUCATION
Tips of the Trade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Legislative Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Touching Lives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Writing Daily Journal Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Collecting Payment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Bloat: Learn the Facts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
What Is Gold Beat Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Caring for Older Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
NAPPS Network
Mission Statement
The mission of the NAPPS
Network is to provide tools for
members to enhance their
business, help them expand
their knowledge of professional
pet sitting, and communicate
association news and events.
NAPPS
Copyright March 2008. The NAPPS Network is published four times a
year in March, June, September and December by NAPPS
Headquarters: 15000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C, Mt. Laurel, NJ
08054. Periodical mailing privilege pending at Mt. Laurel, NJ and additional
mailing offices. Postmaster: send change of address to the
NAPPS Network c/o NAPPS Headquarters, 15000 Commerce Parkway,
Suite C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054. The NAPPS Network is free to National
Association of Professional Pet Sitters, Inc. members. No part of this
publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
Editorial offices: 15000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C.
Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054.
National Association of
Professional Pet Sitters, Inc.
15000 Commerce Parkway
Suite C
Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054
Phone: (856) 439-0324
Fax: (856) 439-0525
Email: napps@ahint.com
www.petsitters.org
President’s Message
Candance Labane-Godfrey, President
To reinforce the importance of networking and drive home the value of the service you provide,
Candance chose to run her Fall 07 message: To “Net” or Not to “Net” again. Please give it a read
(or a re-read) and take her wisdom and experience into consideration.
One of the many challenges
of running a small
business is dealing with
the “feast-or-famine”
nature. It’s not just about
the flow of business, but
the flow of cash.
The success of a small
business depends on
much more than simply having a good idea.
Sound management is most often paramount
to a successful business. The key to many
small business successes often depends on
managing the numbers relative to where the
business fits into the marketplace. Making
your bottom line meet your objectives requires
staying on top of all of your financial data.
The goal here is to operate more effectively
and efficiently. That equates to increased profit
(or profit where there currently is none).
To “Net” or Not to “Net”
I’m not referring to your computer. You need to
know how much you are putting in your own
pocket at the end of the day. You may be satisfied
with the fees you’re charging, but what
are you actually making as a profit What are
all of the hard costs And…have you figured
those costs into the fees you are charging
For example:
You charge $18 for one pet per visit.
(-) $4.00 gasoline (which doesn’t
include total vehicle costs)
(-) $ .25 insurance/bonding
(-) $ .25 toys/treats
(-) $ .25 telephone
$13.25 Total
Let’s say you discount (an ugly word) the
extended stay, daily rates and reduced rates
for cats that you might be selling by time and
not service. Each visit will still take the same
amount of gas so, only using your gas costs,
run the figures again.
You charge $16 discounted for one pet per
visit.
(-) $4.00 Gasoline
$12.00 Total
Obviously this is not a complete list.
Additionally you need to consider the costs that
also reduce your net profits. And…do you
know what you can expense Do you know
what is tax deductible This doesn’t mean you
have to build a monster business budget, but
there are a whole variety of potential expenses
that may impact your bottom line profit.
If you have not already considered the following
expenses (and deductions), you should in
the future:
• Advertising and Promotion (All types —
candy, cards, flowers, toys, treats, gifts
$25 and under, etc.)
• Pet Supplies (All cleaning products including
paper towels, bleach, sprays, soap,
litter, food, leashes, collars, etc.)
• Communication (Business telephone, cell
phone, pager, fax, Internet, e-mail, etc.)
• Mileage
• Printing (Business cards, copies, flyers,
brochures, etc.)
• Postage/Shipping
• Business Banking Service Charges
• Business Dues
In the NAPPS Library, there exists a complete
form to guide you. Remember, you and your
time are INVALUABLE!
You are invaluable to your clients and their pet
family. You have a special usefulness to every
client you service. You are their peace of mind
and their comfort zone. You are precious and
priceless. Last but, certainly not least, you are
worthy of their respect. Respect takes many
forms and one of those forms is the $$ you
make to care for two very important things in
their lives; their home and their family members!
■
The NAPPS Network • 1

Letters To The Editor
Dear editor:
I am writing in regards to the article in “NAPPS Network” magazine, Winter 2007, titled “How to Grade a
Dog’s Food.” While apparently useful and informative, the article gives no information as to who wrote it or
where the information came from. In recent months all of us are a little more careful, or at least we should
be, with pet food information, given recent events in China and those involving a well-known pet treat. It
goes without saying, then, that there should be information provided as to where the article came from. An
author, perhaps. Furthermore, said author should have some background that would assure us that we can
take him/her seriously enough to give this information to our clients, or use it ourselves. Sloppy handling of
the article can only mean that it cannot be used or, if it is, terrible errors can be made by pet sitters and
clients who thought “NAPPS Network” could be trusted.
Nancy J. Dorger
A to Zoo Pet Sitting, Home, and Ranch Care
Morgan Hill, Ca.
Nancy,
Thank you for your feedback. You bring up a good point and in the future I will make sure that articles are cited with a source. I did find the source of
the "How to Grade a Dog’s Food" and wanted to share it with you. Her name is Sarah Irick and she is a Great Dane owner and rescue volunteer. She
is a civil/industrial engineer and has no affiliation with any pet manufacturers. She said, "I am just an individual who is concerned about what I feed
my dogs and wants to help others decide what to feed their own." She mentions that "Unfortunately the kibble quiz is still a bit cumbersome (sometimes
2 people calculate the same food and get different scores even) but it’s better than nothing in my opinion."
I did find another source for grading dog food that I feel is more credible: www.dogfoodanalysis.com. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and reading
our magazine!
Sincerely,
Heidi
Dear Ms. Zengel,
I wanted to write and thank you for putting together such an informative, intelligent magazine for those of
us in the pet sitting industry! Our company has just recently (November, I believe) become a member of
NAPPS. We have been a PSI member for at least 2 years. I mention this, because I want you to know that I
have had plenty of time to assess PSI’s pet sitter magazine. There’s no doubt that PSI’s magazine has more
glitz and glam, but as for content, your magazine surpasses and leaves them in the dust! I love pretty pictures,
but I’d rather be informed, educated and inspired by a magazine that is provided for my profession.
I just wanted you (and your staff) to know how important a service you provide. Thank you.
Best wishes,
Shannon P.
Carolina Pet Care Services
The NAPPS Network • 2

NAPPS 2008 Board of Directors
President
Candance Labane-Godfrey
Precious Pets In Home Services
E-mail: leilanigodfrey@yahoo.com
Past-President
Jerry Wentz
Homesitters of Raleigh
E-mail: j_wentz@earthlink.net
President-Elect
Monica Leighton
Professional Pet Sitting
E-mail: monicaleighton@comcast.net
Secretary
John D’Ariano
A Pet Sitter Plus
E-mail: APetsitterPlus@aol.com
Treasurer
Vickie L. Reason
Happy Tails Pet Services
E-mail: vickie@happytailspetservices.com
Director
Linda Norton
Precious Pets
E-mail: lindamay@snet.net
Director
Kathleen Luxton
Ranch Pet and House Sitting
E-mail: lkluxton@verizon.net
Director
Susan Reid
Reid's Pet Sitting Service
E-mail: sue@reidspetsitting.com
Director
Joette White
Park Cities Pet Sitter, Inc
E-mail: info@pcpsi.com
Director
Jennifer Haralson
A Pause for Paws, Inc.
E-mail: pharalson@neb.rr.com
Director
Nancy Stevens
Ark Angels Pet Care
E-mail: arkangels@bellsouth.net
Membership Services
NAPPS Headquarters
15000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C
Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054
Phone: (856) 439-0324
Fax: (856) 439-0525
E-mail: napps@ahint.com
www.petsitters.org
Felicia Lembesis
Executive Director
Robin Geary
Meeting and Exhibits Manager
Cathe Delaney
Membership Services Manager
Business Insurers of the Carolinas
PO Box 2536
Chapel Hill, NC 27515-2536
Phone: (800) 962-4611 ext. 224
www.petsitterinsurance.com
For Dishonesty Bond and/or
General Liability Insurance
The National Group
Insurance Exchange
3210 Doolittle Dr.
Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: (800) 955-0418
Fax: (847) 559-9499
Email: tngie@aol.com
www.wwins.com
Contact: Alan Leafman
For Dental and Health Insurance
For pet sitting questions contact:
• Any board member
• NAPPS’ Web site: www.petsitters.org
NAPPS Network Staff
Coordinating Editor
Heidi Zengel
Contributing Writer/Staff Writer
Erik Caplan
Art Director/Designer/Illustrator
Justin Fennelly
NAPPS Network is published quarterly by the National
Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), a nonprofit
organization, and is available through membership subscription.
No portion of the magazine may be reprinted without the written
consent of the National Association of Professional Pet
Sitters. The letters and advertisements contained in this magazine
do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the association.
NAPPS is not liable for validity or correctness of any claim,
express or implied, made in advertisements or writings of this
magazine.
PLEASE SEND ALL LETTERS TO
THE EDITOR:
Heidi Zengel
15000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C
Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054
E-mail: hzengel@ahint.com
Letters should include your name, address, and
daytime telephone number. Letters may be edited
for length or clarity. Submissions may be
mailed or emailed as a word document.
Add Extra Income
to Your
Existing Business
www.hpnbiz.com
The NAPPS Network • 3

Business of the Year
NAPPS would like to congratulate Beate Spear
and her team at The Purrfect Nanny for winning
the 2007 Business of the Year contest! As the
winner, she received a free trip to the Annual
Conference as well as recognition on the
NAPPS Web site.
Established in 2005, Beate’s company not only
offers traditional pet sitting services, but due to
their numerous horse specialists, they offer
equine farm services as well. She says her
special services, such as full-time pet/farm sittings,
extended dog walks, and overnights are
not offered by all competitors. She also says,
“Our slogan ‘covering all pet needs under one
roof’ is not an empty promise.”
Her biggest challenge starting The Purrfect
Nanny was the numerous pet sitting services in
the Greater Atlanta area that already existed.
She says, “starting a new business that provides
services is always a risk and the accomplishments
we have made have only been possible
with detailed market research, clever
advertisement, and the ‘purrfect’ helping hands
(IC’s). The challenge is still there and always
will be.”
The Purrfect Nanny’s list of specialized services
also includes: holistic pet food delivered to
clients’ homes; partnership with a mobile
groomer; recommendations for both an animal
behaviorist and an equine farm real estate specialist;
and a virtual store of pet and horse
books and products.
The company is nationally certified, pet first
aid/CPR certified, bonded and insured, and was
recently recognized by Fox television as one of
Atlanta’s best pet services.
Beate credits NAPPS as one of the major reasons
her business is a success. Before The
Purrfect Nanny got off the ground, she
searched for a professional pet sitter certification
program, which NAPPS offered and she
took advantage of. She says, “I created a lot of
my business forms based on the examples
found in the NAPPS membership section and
got good ideas and advice from the quarterly
issues of NAPPS Network magazine.”
She cites benefits such as the teleconferences,
insurance, the e-zine and the personal support
she’s received from Candance Labane-Godfrey
that have helped mold her company. She says,
“Without NAPPS, The Purrfect Nanny would not
be where we are now.”
In order to be considered for NAPPS Business
of the Year, members must: complete a lengthy
application, be a member in good standing for
at least a year, report percentage of growth,
provide forms of public and client recognition,
as well as cite examples of any volunteer service
or self-improvement.
Congratulations again to Beate and her team
for a job well done! ■
Attention All
NAPPS Members:
Want to make a difference in your community
Help homeless pets and build your business
We are looking for 2008 committee members
to help us with the annual collection drive
known as Presents 4 Pets. Each year NAPPS
members support the Humane Society for their
National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week in
November. Abandoned shelter pets need OUR
help! We will be on a mission to collect many
supplies such as toys, treats, food, blankets,
beds, leashes and collars.
The NAPPS Network • 4
A committee member will participate in a regular
scheduled conference call. This will allow
committee members to brainstorm ideas on
how we can educate our society. We want to
work together nationwide to make a difference.
The Presents 4 Pets program assists in the well
being of shelter animals, helps support local
shelters and the staff of care givers, and creates
awareness of shelters.
PRESENTS
4
P E T S
By joining our Present 4 Pets committee you
will not only make a difference in your community,
you are showing your clients you REALLY
care about animal welfare. ■

Get To Know Your Board
Candance Labane-Godfrey,
President
Jennifer Haralson,
Director
Candance runs Precious Pets In-Home Services
in Sacramento, California. Her childhood in
Montana was filled with animals and birds; her
parents were sure she would become a veterinarian.
But her career path took her first to
special education and, then, to the hospitality
industry.
In 1995, she and her husband needed a pet sitter
while they were on a business trip.
Impressed with the skills and knowledge of the
person they hired, Labane-Godfrey's love of
animals was rekindled. Over the next two
years, she read everything she could about the
pet sitting industry. In 1997, after going over
her marketing plan with her banker, she started
her own pet sitting business.
Since then, Precious Pets In-Home Services
has not only provided in-home pet sitting, but
also has created and maintains an extensive
support library for clients - information on
training, behavior issues, diseases, first aid,
natural healing, holistic veterinarians. She also
uses and suggests pet support equipment
(heated/cooled beds, pet fountains, traveling
carriers, pet safety protectors).
Labane-Godfrey is involved with rescue, fostering
and the care of feral communities. Her local
reputation has allowed Precious Pets In-Home
Services to have exclusive vet referrals in the
area her company serves.
Her pet household includes Princess (American
Stafford Terrier), nine permanent family cats
and four fostered felines.
My name is Jennifer Haralson and I am a professional
pet sitter. I grew up in Columbus,
Nebraska, a small agricultural community. My
parents were both self employed and my mother
was involved with sales. I learned a lot about
the benefits, the insecurity, the rollercoaster of
emotions, and hard work that self employment
took to be successful from a very young age.
Like most pet sitters, I have always loved animals.
I grew up with a dog always present in
our family and then later in my high school
years, a cat. As a young adult my personal pet
experience consisted of hamsters, hedgehogs,
ferrets, fish, dogs and cats.
I became a teacher knowing that it would
always be a “back-up plan” for security once I
found out what I really wanted to do with my
life. My husband, Perry Haralson, was a U.S.
Marine, so we had some travel in our lives
when we were first married. We lived without
pets in apartments as we attended college until
1998 when we settled in San Diego, California.
It was in San Diego that I found pet sitting. I
was searching for somewhere for our new
family dog and ferrets to stay when we
returned to Nebraska to see family. I remember
feeling excited and reading everything I could
get my hands on about this industry. I knew in
my heart that this was the career I had been
looking for and that my life experiences would
benefit me in making this a success. The
industry was very new at that point and there
were limited number of pet sitting businesses,
even in San Diego. I know now that God put us
there, so far away from my familiar roots and
family, so that I could find the biggest pleasure
of my life’s work. Pet sitting was totally
unheard of in the agricultural communities of
the mid-west. I needed to leave there in order
to find it.
I started Jennifer’s’ Pet Sitting, with a partner,
Jennifer Arrieta in July 1999. We initially got
into pet sitting because we saw the desire to
be self employed and we loved to surround our
lives with pets. After 9 months in business,
Jennifer Arrieta was able to quit her full time
job as a veterinary technician to focus on our
business. I was able to become a part-time
teacher and full time sitter in the fall of 2001. I
worked part-time as a teacher until the summer
of 2002, when I made pet sitting my only
job.
My husband and I moved to Lincoln, Nebraska
in the spring of 2003. Jennifer Arrieta and I
worked to sell the San Diego business in June
2003 to an individual looking to transition into
pet sitting.
In October, using the profits from the sale of
Jennifers’ Pet Sitting, I started A Pause for
Paws. I worked independently as a sole proprietor
from October 2003 until August 2005,
while also working full time as a teacher for
the visually impaired in Lincoln Public Schools.
I started working part-time as a teacher in the
fall of 2005 and then hired Tonia Tauke. She
started as a client, became an employee, and
now is a business partner. We incorporated A
Pause for Paws (APP) in January 2006. Tonia
and I are full time pet sitters, shareholders and
officers of the business.
In addition to my love for pet sitting and owning
my own business, I am wife of 12 years to
Perry and I am a mother for two young boys,
Zacoben, age 4 and Nicaiden age 1. I am a pet
parent to a boxer, Tobey and a cat, Miss Diego.
I am a substitute Sunday school teacher at
Southwood Lutheran Church and an early
childhood coach for volleyball and soccer clinics
at Abbott Sports Complex in Lincoln. ■
The NAPPS Network • 5

Tips of the Trade
Submitted by:
Jennifer Sims
Busy Pets
San Francisco Bay Area, CA
For pets that can’t slow down at chow time,
try putting a tennis ball, a toy, or a very large
rock (which has been cleaned of course) in
their bowl. It works great and its cheap!
Submitted by:
Gina Brugna,
The Peaks Pet Nanny, LLC
Lake Hopatcong, NJ
Whenever a furry client passes away - I
always make a donation to The Humane
Society's Kindred Spirits program - in honor
the pet's memory.
A card is mailed to the clients letting them
know a donation was made in
their pet's name from your company.
As you can imagine, my clients have been
extremely thankful for the kind
gesture and thoughtfulness.
Also, you can make a donation in any
amount.
This allows you do something you're financially
comfortable with - but the
donation amount is not disclosed to the
client.
Calling all pet sitters!
Have some favorite tips of the
trade you’d like to share
Send in your helpful hints to
hzengel@ahint.com and they
will be posted in the library as
well as included in the next
issue of NAPPS Network!
UPCOMING EVENTS:
March 14-16, 2008
PET EXPO
The Greater Reading Expo Center
2525 North 12th Street
Reading, PA
April 4-6, 2008
Pet Industry Spring Trade Show
hhbacker@hhbacker.com
October 15-19, 2008
Wild West Veterinary Conference
November 22-23, 2008
PET EXPO
The Meadowlands Expo Center
Secacus, New Jersey
April 11-13, 2008
Everything Pets
Mmithcell.sg@fuse.net
May 14–17, 2008
Animal Care Expo
Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
www.animalsheltering.org/expo
May 16-18, 2008
2008 Backer Pet Industry Spring Trade Show
Baltimore Convention Center
Baltimore, Maryland
September 9-11, 2008
SuperZoo West 2008
Mandalay Bay Convention Center - Las Vegas, NV
The annual Pet Industry Trade Show
The NAPPS Network • 6

Legislative Update
US Senate Passes
2007 Farm Bill
In December 2007, the U.S. Senate passed
their version of the 2007 Farm Bill. Below is a
summary of provisions affecting dogs:
• The measure will require that any puppy
brought into the U.S. have all vaccinations
and be in good health as determined by
the Secretary of Agriculture. Imports of
puppies for resale under the age of 6
months are prohibited. This amendment
will NOT negatively impact fanciers and
responsible dog breeders who import an
animal for use in their own breeding programs
or as a pet.
• Senator John Kerry (D-MA) authored
amendments that will strengthen the
existing laws on dog fighting, making it
easier to prosecute those who would
abuse our canine companions.
• The Farm Bill amendment would expand
and strengthen the current prohibition to
include those who knowingly "sponsor"
or "attend" a dog fighting venture.
Additionally, it would make it unlawful to
buy, sell, possess, train or transport any
dog or other animal for the purpose of
having the animal participate in an animal
fighting venture. The amendment defines
a "dog fighting venture" as an event that
involves a fight between at least 2 animals,
including at least one dog, which is
conducted for purposes of sport, wagering,
or entertainment.
• Senator Daniel Akaka (D-HI) sponsored an
amendment that will ensure that all dogs
and cats sold to research facilities are
obtained through legal means. The measure
will require that Class B dealers,
those who sell animals to research facilities,
be licensed and provide documentation
on the source of the animals. ■
NAPPS
Member
Benefit
Marketing
NAPPS can help you take your business to the
next level. It’s as simple as picking up your
phone and calling Tartan Media Group, Inc.
Tartan Media Group, Inc. has offices in Santa
Barbara, Chicago, and Boise, Idaho and will provide
up to one hour of FREE consultation for all
members of NAPPS by appointment. This consultation
with Lee Van Kirk, CEO, will include
discussion of current advertising methodology,
recommendations for growth and future advertising
and other miscellaneous issues such as
Web site enhancements, mass mail, etc. Please
call Tartan Media Group, Inc. at 208-489-8717
for appointment times available. ■
The NAPPS Network • 7

If I Didn't Have Dogs/Cats
I could walk around the yard barefoot in safety.
My house could be carpeted instead of tiled
and laminated.
All flat surfaces, clothing, furniture, and cars
would be free of hair.
When the doorbell rings, it wouldn't sound like
a kennel.
When the doorbell rings, I could get to the door
without wading through fuzzy bodies who beat
me there.
I could sit on the couch and my bed the way I
wanted, without taking into consideration how
much space several fur bodies would need to
get comfortable.
I would have money ....and no guilt to go on a
real vacation.
I would not be on a first-name basis with 6 veterinarians,
as I put their yet unborn grandkids
through college.
The most used words in my vocabulary would
not be: out, sit, down, come, no, stay, and
leave him/her/it ALONE.
My house would not be cordoned off into
zones with baby gates or barriers.
My house would not look like a day care center,
toys everywhere.
My pockets would not contain things like poop
bags, treats and an extra leash.
I would no longer have to spell the words
B-A-L-L, F-R-I-S-B-E- E, W-A-L-K, T-R-E-A-T,
B-I-K-E, G-O, R-I-D-E.
I would not have as many leaves INSIDE my
house as outside.
I would not look strangely at people who think
having ONE dog/cat ties them down too much.
I'd look forward to spring and the rainy season
instead of dreading "mud" season.
I would not have to answer the question "Why
do you have so many animals" from people
who will never have the joy in their lives of
knowing they are loved unconditionally by
someone as close to an angel as they will ever
get.
How EMPTY my life would be! ■
Submitted by:
Ellen Cranos
Smiley Miley Pet Services
Lakewood Ranch, Florida
The NAPPS Network • 8

Writing Daily Journal Notes
By Christi Fries
A college-age pet sitter I was training asked
“How did writing notes for each client become
part of the job” He caught me off-guard, as
new hires have never asked that before!
Keeping a daily log for midday, vacationing, and
boarding clients is a vital part of providing
quality customer service. It is the No. 1 tool for
communicating with our clients; the “people
care” part of animal care.
I gave my new sitter these reasons for creating
a detailed, but concise log:
• Notes prove you were there, tell of your
actions, and describe the life of a pet in
the owner’s absence
• Logs set expectations for future visits,
payments due, supplies needed, and tips
• Your daily log entries are the physical
reinforcement of your value as a professional
• Professional notes exude a top quality; if
you let the quality of your notes deteriorate;
the client can only assume that
you’re providing sub-standard care in all
facets of your job
• Details can alleviate the guilt clients hold
when leaving their pets alone for long
periods of time
• Correct spelling counts and identification
of a pet’s gender prove that you pay
attention to details and care about your
clients’ pets
Some clients like dry erase boards for the
ease of cleaning. Others prefer the spiral
bound notebooks, so that they can look back
on the life of their pet, including all the details
and benefits of retaining a professional pet sitter.
Notebooks are always handy for reconciliation
on payday!
Anatomy of a Great
Journal Entry
Every log entry should include the following:
1 Date and time
2 Inclusion of every pet’s name at least
once
3 Description of how you found the pets
“Your words can paint a
picture of contentment, ease,
and life in the sunshine.“
4 Description of exactly what the pets and
sitter did
5 Description of output and intake
6 Notation indicating next scheduled visit
7 Sitter’s name
8 Minimum 3 sentences
9 Tone of voice that mirrors the client’s
10 Correct spellings
11 Optional – request for supplies, payment,
or owner action
Your words can paint a picture of contentment,
ease, and life in the sunshine. Take the time to
ensure your logs share what the animals experience.
■
Sample Vacation Visit Log Entry
10/31 Wednesday 7 am
Opie greeted me at the door and helped me find Rocky,
who was asleep on your pillow. It was a little cold this
morning, so I adjusted the thermostat. Rocky got his
insulin, then both kitties were fed. All normal in both litter
boxes. We opened the back blinds to let in the warm sun;
Rocky and Opie joined me on the carpet for a long brushing
session. They are now enjoying a pinch of catnip, and
will be ready for naps. I’ll be back at 7 pm, call me if you
get in before then!
Thanks again, Emily
Sample Midday Walk Log Entry
11/1 Thursday 12:15 pm
Hello Mrs. West,
The crates were dry when I arrived. Waffle and Pansy
were happy to see the sun was out! We played Frisbee in
the yard and enjoyed all the exercise. Both peed and
pooped. Carrots for treats, and fresh water when we got
in. $123 total for this week, ok to run your credit card I’ll
see the girls at 11 am on Friday!
Thank you, Pete
The NAPPS Network • 9

Methods for Collecting Payment
By Heidi Zengel
As small business owners, particularly as pet
sitters who feel more comfortable with animals
than humans, getting confrontational about
payment can be an unfamiliar and distressing
experience.
After posing the question on the NAPPS
Listserv as well as searching through chat logs
of pet sitters, I’ve collected a bevy of answers
for the age-old question of, “How do I get paid
Regularly” While some pet sitters prefer to bill
clients weekly or monthly for their services,
(and have had no problems) the chances for
this method turning sour seems to be more frequent.
With prepayment, pet sitters often run
into the problems of “the check is in the mail”
excuse or perhaps, “I get paid this Friday, I
SWEAR I’ll write off a check as soon as I get
paid!”
Being the non-confrontational types, it’s easier
to believe the payment is coming rather than
continue to badger customers. And really,
they’re customers, so you want to keep them
happy, right But there’s a difference between
happy, paying customers and happy, non-paying
customers. The difference is the former
also creates happy, paid pet sitters. And that’s
the real goal.
The other option for collecting monies owed is
prepayment, which NAPPS wholeheartedly
advocates. As Candance Labane-Godfrey, president
of NAPPS, has mentioned to me on more
than one occasion, you wouldn’t call a plumber
to come fix your bathroom only to say to
him/her “Just bill me for it.” People in service
careers have come to expect payment on-thespot.
This method makes sense and leaves the
least amount of room for error.
There are combinations of ways to collect payment
before/during service. For example, Sue
Reid, of Reids Pet Sitting, collects payment up
front for new clients and her existing clients
leave payment in the “Client Kit” folder she
provides. For regular weekly clients, they have
to pay a week or two ahead (depending on
their needs) for service.
So whether you’re just starting out or have
realized your collection policy has some kinks,
here are some guidelines and/or tips that may
smooth out the wrinkles in your business.
“There’s a difference between happy, paying customers
and happy, non-paying customers. The difference is the former
also creates happy, paid pet sitters. And that’s the real goal.”
Get It In Writing
Make sure that in your contract of service it
clearly states what your method of billing is. If
you pursue the invoice/billing method, make
sure it clearly states when you will bill the
client and when you expect payment.
In both cases (prepayment/post payment),
make sure that it also states if/when you will
incur a late fee for non-payment/late payment
and what steps you are prepared to take (such
as small claims court). If you don’t feel comfortable
with legalese or fancy jargon, employ
the use of a lawyer to help you write out some
iron-clad policies.
Spell It Out During
the Meet and Greet
Designate an area where the payment will be
left. CaroleAnne Hensley, of FBI furry buddies,
says, “On the initial interview I tell them this is
a small business and there is NO billing system.
Payment is expected at the first visit of
the assignment for all the scheduled visits.”
Any additional services (taking pets to the vet,
cleaning up accidents, etc.) can be settled upon
clients’ return (but feel free to leave a selfstamped/addressed
envelope and a note about
the service you provided).
You could also create or buy a personalized
check/note holder to double as a marketing
tool! Remember, if it has your business, name,
and number on it and it’s used often, chances
are good it will always be within reach – as
well as always within eyesight of
guests/prospective clients!
Make Payment Easy
for the Customer
Beate Spear, of The Purrfect Nanny, makes
payment an easy transaction for clients, by
using an online payment system to give the
clients an opportunity to pay via credit card.
She requires clients to pay two days before
start of the sitting (holidays are to be paid at
booking). She says, “If we do not receive payment
either by check or credit card, we run
their credit card, because we require to have
one on file for unexpected costs or longer
absences.”
Remember, you’re providing a valuable service.
Clients will take you seriously if you take
their pets/home seriously. If they didn’t feel you
were valuable, they wouldn’t be hiring a certified,
professional pet sitter. You’re allowed (and
expected) to set boundaries and rules for your
terms of service. ■
The NAPPS Network • 10

Bloat: Learn the Facts
By Erik Caplan
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) is also known
as “bloat,” “stomach torsion,” or “twisted
stomach.” This is an extremely serious condition,
and it should be considered a life-threatening
emergency when it occurs. Bloat most
commonly affects large-breed, deep-chested
dogs two years of age and older. Owners of
susceptible breeds should be knowledgeable
about the signs of the disease, since early and
prompt treatment can greatly improve the outcome.
Dogs can die of bloat within several
hours, and, even with treatment, as many as
25-33 percent of dogs with this condition die.
The condition manifests itself in two parts—
gastric dilatation and the volvulus (or torsion).
In bloat, due to a number of different and
sometimes unknown reasons, the stomach fills
air and puts pressure on the other organs and
diaphragm. This makes it difficult for the dog to
breathe, compressing large veins in the
abdomen, which prevents blood from returning
to the heart. Filled with air, the stomach can
easily rotate on itself, pinching off the blood
supply. Once this rotation (volvulus) occurs and
the blood supply is cut off, the stomach begins
to die, and the animal’s blood supply is disrupted.
The dog’s condition then begins to deteriorate
very rapidly. Not all with a gas build-up
and resultant dilatation develop the more serious
and life threatening volvulus. However,
almost all dogs with a volvulus develop it as a
result of a dilatation. Understanding the signs,
prevention, and need for prompt treatment will
help reduce the risk of mortality if your dog
develops this problem.
What dogs are more
susceptible
There is a definite link between the likelihood
of occurrence of bloat and the breed and build
of the dog. This condition is much more likely
to occur in large breeds with deep, narrow
chests. The problem can occur in small dogs,
but only rarely. A recent study of hundreds of
dogs with GDV has allowed vets to create a
ratio of likelihood of a particular breed developing
bloat as compared to a mixed breed dog.
Dog Breeds Most Likely to Experience Bloat in
Descending Order
1. Great Dane
2. Saint Bernard
3. Weimaraner
4. Irish Setter
5. Gordon Setter
6. Standard Poodle
7. Basset Hound
8. Doberman Pinscher
9. Old English Sheepdog
10. German Shorthaired Pointer
11. Newfoundland
12. German Shepherd
13. Airedale Terrier
14. Alaskan Malamute
15. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
16. Boxer
17. Collie
18. Labrador Retriever
19. English Springer Spaniel
20. Samoyed
21. Dachshund
22. Golden Retriever
23. Rottweiler
24. Mixed
25. Miniature Poodle
In addition to breed predilection, there appears
to be a genetic link to this disease. The incidence
is closely correlated to the depth and
width of the dog’s chest. Several different
genes from the parents determine these traits.
If both parents have particularly deep and narrow
chests, it is highly likely their offspring will
have deep and narrow chests, and the resulting
accompanying problems.
Other Facts about Bloat
• Dogs older than seven years of age are at
least twice as likely to develop gastric
dilatation and volvulus as those who are
less than four years old.
• Male dogs are twice as likely to develop
gastric dilatation and volvulus as females.
Neutering does not appear to have an
effect on the risk of GDV.
• Dogs fed once a day are twice as likely to
develop GDV as those fed twice a day.
• It appears dogs who eat rapidly or exercise
soon after a meal may also be at
increased risk.
• Nervous, anxious or fearful dogs appear to
be at an increased risk of developing GDV.
• Even with treatment, as many as 25-30
percent of dogs with GDV die.
Causes
There is not one particular activity leading to
the development of bloat. It seems to occur as
a combination of events. Studies of the stomach
gas occurring in dilatation have shown it is
similar to the composition of normal room air,
which suggests the dilatation occurs as a result
of swallowing air. All dogs (and people, for that
matter) swallow air, but normally we eructate
(burp) and release this air—no problem. For
some reason scientists have not yet determined,
dogs who develop bloat do not release
this swallowed gas. There are currently several
studies looking into what happens physiologically
in these dogs developing GDV.
The NAPPS Network • 11

Signs
The most obvious signs are abdominal distention
(swollen belly), non-productive vomiting
(the animal appears to be vomiting, but nothing
comes up) and retching. Other signs include
restlessness, abdominal pain and rapid shallow
breathing. Profuse salivation may indicate
severe pain. If the dog’s condition continues to
deteriorate, especially if volvulus has occurred,
the dog may go into shock and become pale,
have a weak pulse, a rapid heart rate and
eventually collapse. A dog with gastric dilatation
without volvulus can show all of these
signs, but the more severe signs are likely to
occur in dogs with both dilatation and volvulus.
Treatment
When the dog is presented to the hospital, its
condition is assessed. Blood samples are usually
taken and tested to help determine the
dog’s status. Usually the animal is in shock, or
predisposed to it, so intravenous catheters are
placed and fluids are administered. Antibiotics
and pain relievers may be given.
The stomach is decompressed either by passing
a stomach tube or inserting a large needle
into the stomach and releasing the gas. After
the animal is stabilized, x-rays are taken to
help determine whether or not a volvulus is
present.
Some dogs with bloat develop a bleeding disorder
called disseminated intravascular coagulation
(DIC). This happens when small clots start
to develop within the dog’s blood vessels. To
prevent or treat this condition, heparin is given.
The dog’s heart rate and rhythm are closely
monitored. Some dogs with GDV develop heart
arrhythmias, and this is a common cause of
death in dogs with GDV.
Once the dog is stabilized, surgery is performed
to assess the health of the stomach
and surrounding organs. If areas of the stomach
or spleen have been irreversibly damaged,
they are removed. In such a case, the chances
for recovery are very poor, and euthanasia may
be an alternative. The surgeon then properly
repositions the stomach and sutures it in a way
to prevent it from twisting again (a procedure
called gastropexy). If gastropexy is not performed,
75-80 percent of dogs will develop
bloat again.
After surgery, the dog is closely monitored for
several days for signs of infection, heart abnormalities,
DIC, stomach ulceration or perforation
and damage to the pancreas or liver. Antibiotics
and additional medications may be given.
Prevention
Due to the genetic link involved with this disease,
prospective pet owners should question if
there is a history of bloat in the lineage of any
puppy from a breed listed as high risk. In addition,
the following recommendations should be
followed:
• Large dogs should be fed two or three
times daily, rather than once a day.
• Owners of susceptible breeds should be
aware of the early signs of bloat.
• Owners of susceptible breeds should
develop a good working relationship with
a local veterinarian in case emergency
care is needed.
• Water should be available at all times, but
should be limited immediately after feeding.
• Vigorous exercise, excitement and stress
should be avoided one hour before and
two hours after meals.
• Diet changes should be made gradually
over a period of three to five days.
• Susceptible dogs should be fed individually,
and, if possible, in a quiet location. ■
The NAPPS Network • 12

What Is Gold Bead Therapy
By Erik Caplan
Almost everyone has heard of
acupuncture—for many, the word itself
conjures a mental image of incense
smoke lazily curling into the air as
strains of new-age music create the
perfect, mellow environment for the
therapeutic practice of sticking long,
thin needles into one’s flesh. While the
actual medical value of this practice
has long been debated, one thing is
certain: anything humans do to themselves
will surely eventually be visited
upon their pets. Consequently,
acupuncture has been used on dogs
since it became popular with humans
in the mid-1960s, and usage of this
form of therapy for various ailments
eventually led to experimentation with
gold bead therapy.
Gold bead therapy entails the implantation
of small gold beads under the animal’s
skin on the acupuncture points
on the dog’s back and head as a permanent
form of acupuncture. The gold
beads are tiny—about the size of a
pinhead or tip of a fine ball point
pen—and provide a long-term stimulation
of the points. The first gold bead
implants in the U.S. were done in the
early 1970s by Dr. Grady Young. Dr. Terry
Durkes, in Marion, IN, began doing clinical
research on using the implants in 1975, and
initially used them to treat seizure disorders
and hip dysplasia.
The gold beads are gold-plated magnets
placed in specific points using a sterile, surgical
technique. Each point receives three to five
beads delivered with a special needle. The
number of beads depends on the size of the
patient and degree of pathology. Gold wire is
sometimes used, but it is more expensive.
Interestingly, silver beads do not have the same
ionic affect on body tissues as gold.
According to practitioners, gold bead implants
can be effective for many severe, otherwise
degenerative conditions, such as degenerative
myelopathy, severe spondylosis, hip dysplasia,
elbow or knee arthritis and epilepsy.
Essentially, the veterinarian implants the beads
into specific acupuncture points, which vary
depending on the medical condition and the
animal’s specific needs.
“Although it’s always better
to treat a disease in its
earliest state, and no one can
ever guarantee recovery, even
severely disabled animals
have been known to respond
nicely to the procedure.”
Gold bead therapy has also been used to treat
conditions like:
• Allergic Dermatitis
• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Certain Types of Paralysis
• Fecal Incontinence
• Hip Dysplasia
• Intervertebral Disc Disease
• Long Term Injuries
• Lick Granulomas
• Non-healing Fractures
• Seizure Activity/Epilepsy
• Sensory Neurodermatitis
• Spondyloarthritis
• Surgical Analgesia
• Traumatic Nerve Injury
• Urinary Incontinence
For all of the purported positive aspirations of
gold bead implants, there can be negative
aspects to the procedure. According to Durkes,
some dogs react negatively to the surgical
scrub and develop a rash. Placing a dog under
anesthesia always creates some risks.
However, all dogs are at risk to anesthesia
regardless of the operation. Also, the
beads occasionally slip out of place.
While this causes no harm in and of
itself, if moved, the beads provide no
benefit to the dog.
In order to qualify for this procedure, a
veterinarian must ensure the animal’s
health in advance. In particular, their
liver, kidneys and heart should be reasonably
healthy to undergo anesthesia.
Although the procedure is short, anesthetizing
the animals is necessary to
ensure they’re still for the surgery.
Shaving the hair over the implant sites
and sterilizing the area prevents infection.
Technicians take radiographs to
check for cancer or bone infection at the
implant site. Beads remain for the life of
the patient stimulating acupuncture
points and meridians permanently.
Although it’s always better to treat a disease
in its earliest state, and no one can
ever guarantee recovery, even severely
disabled animals have been known to
respond nicely to the procedure.
Durkes theorizes certain diseases are
caused in part by a localized alkalosis, or a
negative charge in body tissues. He speculates
a negative charge to the tissue is caused by
vaccines or diet. It’s known certain diseases,
such as hip dysplasia, may have dietary causes.
Calcium is constantly laid down and taken
up inside the hip joint as dogs grow. It is theorized
the ionic abnormalities cause this calcium
absorption to be abnormal. According to
Durkes, the beads appear to give off positive
charges and can normalize dysplastic joints,
especially in young dogs.
In the case of spinal spondylosis or ventral
bridging of the vertebra, the body is also
attempting to stabilize unstable vertebrae. The
beads theoretically tighten the connective tissue,
and they are believed to give off positive
charges to normalize ionic changes in the tissue.
Durkes also noted 10 to 20 percent of the dogs
with some other condition (i.e. vision or skin
problems, etc.) might see an improvement in
the condition as well. ■
The NAPPS Network • 13

Caring for Older Pets
By Erik Caplan
The affection folks have for their pets almost
always becomes more intense as their pets
age. It is their duty (and yours) to take special
precautions to optimize their animals’ health
and well being. Those “Golden Years” can be a
truly wonderful time if attention is paid to their
pets’ special needs.
Metabolism
Compared to a young dog or cat, an older one
may show a 30 percent decrease in metabolic
rate. In very simple terms, this means all the
chemical reactions that combine to keep the
pet alive and working have slowed down. The
“fire” is burning less intensely, hormones are
not calling out loudly to their target tissues and
glucose is in less demand for fuel. The thyroid
gland has a major part to play in metabolism,
and as a pet ages the thyroid hormone simply
can’t get things done as fast as had in the
past. The older pet does not need, nor does not
often care, to eat as much as it once did
because the demand for energy is so much
less. When the metabolism slows down, all the
body’s machinery slows as a result.
Activity
Many factors play into the pet’s desire and ability
to be mobile, alert and inquisitive. Older pets
often don’t have the energy to fetch or swim,
and they may be holding back due to pain from
aching joints or old injuries. Sometimes an
older pet simply cannot see or hear things that
used to trigger an impulse to investigate.
By far, though, the most common reason older
pets aren’t as active is arthritis. The wear and
tear on joint surfaces and the buildup of calcium
deposits can create a restriction of movement
and a sense of discomfort in any pet.
Dogs seem to be more susceptible to arthritis
than cats, possibly because of size and behavior
differences. After a while, some dogs act
like they would like to “get up and go” but
sense that in doing so they will pay a price in
pain.
Circulatory
An estimated 30 percent of older dogs have
noticeable heart problems. Cats don’t seem to
have quite the same rate of circulatory disturbances
as dogs, but cats can be more difficult
to treat because of their smaller size and less
predictable response to some medications than
dogs.
Dogs and cats have the good fortune to seldom
have the predisposition to some of the common
vascular disorders humans experience. Dogs
and cats almost never suffer from “heart
attacks” where a blood clot obstructs flow
through a coronary artery. Strokes, resulting
from blood clots choking off the blood supply to
a part of the brain, are also very rare in dogs
and cats, and when they do happen, it is usually
in a very old animal.
Generally, older dogs and cats will suffer from
heart rhythm disturbances, and some types of
these can be corrected with medications. Also,
cardiomegaly (enlarged heart) is common in
dogs and cats. Valve closure defects can be a
life-shortening affliction in pets. These various
valve defects create what is termed a “heart
murmur,” where the heart actually sounds
leaky and sloppy.
The NAPPS Network • 14

So, as a pet gets older some of these disorders
can start to occur. Disorders that have been
present since youth will really make an impact
due to the older pet’s weakened overall health
status. An older pet simply does not have the
ability to exchange and deliver oxygenated
blood as efficiently, and, as a result, exercise
intensity and frequency drop off. In severe
cases of circulatory impairment, the pet will
pant frequently and even display a bluish color
to the tongue instead of the normal bright pink
of well-oxygenated tissues. In congestive heart
failure the lungs become swollen with fluid
because the weakened heart cannot pump the
blood through the lungs with the proper
dynamics. As a result the dog coughs persistently,
always seems “out of breath” and has
very low exercise tolerance.
Eyes
The most obvious sign of aging in a dog (and
less in cats) is often seen in their eyes. When
the center of the eye looks like wax paper
instead of being a clean, black color, this is due
to a cataract. The normally clear lens begins to
dehydrate and reflects light back from the eye
instead of trapping the light and focusing it on
the retina. There are many categories and
causes of cataracts, and, if necessary, the
affected lens can be removed by veterinarians
with special training. Any dog or cat may develop
cataracts, but it seems more common in
some breeds such as the Boston Terrier. Some
veterinarians specialize in ophthalmology and
do advanced work with older dogs and cats
with ocular problems.
Glaucoma, an increase in pressure within the
eye, can have serious consequences, too. Often
undetected until intra-ocular damage has been
done, glaucoma can be controlled. The usual
signs are rather general and innocent. Certain
breeds have a greater chance to develop glaucoma,
such as Cocker Spaniels. Tell your
clients to have the veterinarian give a close
look at their pet’s eyes, especially after they
reach eight years of age. If equipped, a veterinarian
can measure the eye pressure in the
office as part of the physical exam.
Skin and Coat
Older pets often have a ragged, mottled
appearance to their coat, which can simply be
a result of a general decline in nutritional
health and cellular vigor. Cats of distinguished
age are notorious for not grooming themselves
like they did when younger. Frequent brushing
of the older pet is very important.
The skin is more susceptible to infection in
older pets, especially beneath the fur mats that
form if grooming is lacking. The skin seems to
“Those ‘Golden Years’
can be a truly
wonderful time if
attention is paid to
their pets’
special needs.”
lose its elasticity and becomes thinner. Some
older pets on the “senior” pet food formulas
have dry and flaky skin due in part from the
restricted fat content of these types of food.
Common sense about bathing, grooming and
nutrition will keep the older pet’s skin and coat
in optimum condition for the pet’s age.
Digestive
One of the most overlooked aspects of the
older pet’s health status is oral hygiene. Have
your clients take a peek into their pet’s mouth
and to see the condition of their teeth and
gums. A very high percentage of older pets
have very poor oral health. Not only will infected
gums and loose, plaque-encrusted teeth be
painful for the pet, but an infected mouth can
seed bacteria into the blood stream to be carried
throughout the pet’s body. Cardiac and
renal pathology are often a direct result of
blood-borne bacteria whose origin is the
mouth. Many older dogs and cats respond very
positively after tooth extractions. Antibiotics
are a requirement after any dental procedures
in an infected mouth environment.
As for the rest of the digestive tract, there is
often a gradual decline in overall function. For
example, the movement of food along the tract
may be slowed, which can result in constipation.
Digestive enzymes often are not secreted
in proper amounts to fully digest the food. This
results in loose stools and a decrease in nutrient
uptake. So even if the older pet is on a
great diet, those nutrients may not be broken
down properly for the pet to assimilate the
nutrients into the body—the nutrients simply
traverse the intestinal tract and are passed in
the stool. Some pets do well on special diets
and supplemental digestive enzymes.
Behavior
Not surprisingly, many older dogs and cats
begin to fail mentally as they reach their teens.
There is no question that they forget such
behaviors as how to find the door to go outside.
And sometimes when they are outdoors
they will wander off, seemingly looking for
home—but in the wrong direction! The neurons
in the brain diminish in number and vitality,
and older pets often will simply lose interest
in the things that used to spark activity. As
human research in the aging process’ effects
on mental acuity progresses, no doubt pets will
benefit as well.
Kidneys
Unfortunately, kidney transplants do not seem
to be a satisfactory protocol at this time, especially
for cats. It is being done in some university
and research settings, but it may be
another 15 or 20 years before veterinary practitioners
are able to employ this procedure to
help their patients. There are too many problems
with rejection and other related complications.
Each kidney is equipped with thousands of little
tubules that do the work of filtering out body
waste products and passing this fluid waste
into the ureters and on to the bladder.
Unfortunately, the tubules do not repair themselves,
like skin or muscle do, if they are damaged.
So whenever a tubule is blocked by scar
tissue, damaged by toxins like ethylene glycol
anti-freeze, harmed by infections like
Leptospirosis or destroyed by pressure from a
kidney or bladder stone, the tubule is finished
forever. The aging process also eliminates
tubules over time, and eventually there aren’t
enough good ones remaining to rid the body of
toxins. A condition called uremic poisoning is
the result.
Uremic poisoning usually progresses slowly as
the dog or cat begins to loose interest in food,
begins to drink more water, urinates more frequently
and eventually begins to vomit due to
the nausea from the toxins building up in it’s
body. A simple lab test done in the veterinarian’s
office, called an Azostix Test, is a good
screening test for signs of uremia in the blood.
Special diets can help prolong a pet’s time.
These are low protein diets and they are
not a cure but can help make the pet feel
better.
For current clients with older pets, take this
information with you to their clients’ homes and
share with them what their pets are going
through. It is up to you, and them, to help their
pets live a long, happy life. ■
The NAPPS Network • 15

Conference Wrap-Up
The NAPPS Network • 16
Members enjoying one of the sessions.
“I loved it! The Orlando Sun Resort was awesome!
What a great place! The seminars and
speakers were wonderful! I hope we have the next
conference here as well. What a wonderful way
to network and stay in touch with the industry!”
NAPPS 2008 Board of Directors
“The staff had great enthusiasm and offered great
assistance with everything! The speakers were
great, I enjoyed them very much! The environment
was pleasant and accommodating!”
President-elect Monica Leighton, with Director of Corporate
Development Gerald Gifford and Lee Van Kirk, Tarton Media Group.
“
As a newcomer to using my NAPPS membership to the fullest, I
decided to go to the Orlando conference to learn more about
business ownership and pet topics, and, of course to meet and
network with other members and staff. The conference truly
exceeded my expectations:
• The seminars ran from early morning to late afternoon –
talk about getting your money’s worth!
• The topics had great variety: they ranged from pet nutrition
to pet behavior to pet law to insurance/bond issues
to disaster preparation to pet sitting 101 and 102 – the
nitty/gritty of business operations by the incomparable
and INVALUABLE Candance Labane-Godfrey, our president
(words do not suffice – you must meet the woman!)
• The presenters were of the highest quality – veterinarian,
dog trainer, animal communicator, cat behaviorist,
lawyer, etc.
• The N.J. staff – Felicia, Cathe, and Robin (I hope I didn’t
forget anyone, my apologies if I did) as well as the board
members did an incredible job with all the logistics
involved, coordinating a smooth and seamless conference,
including the food, hotel, the vendors, and all the
behind-the-scene details of the daily setup that attendees
never saw.
• Finally, all the fabulous, generous and dynamic members
whom I met or heard (there just wasn’t enough time!)
including all the people on the chat forum that I can now
put a face to (including Susan Reid, our esteemed moderator).
It was a wonderful opportunity to get to know
how others are managing their businesses, and to ask
questions and share information.
I hope all of you who want to expand your business and expand
your mind (and meet people who can help you do both) make
an effort to start planning NOW for next year’s conference. I am
a small part-time pet sitter attempting mightily to make the
transition to full-time – so money is a definite concern: I consider
the money very well spent for all of the above reasons at
about a cost of $20-$25/week.
Thanks to all who made the conference a wonderful experience
– including me, because I AM INVALUABLE (tee-hee!)

Buffet lunch and vendor demonstration.
NAPPS Chat Live!
Shannon Centola,
Power Petsitter
Power Petsitter discusses/demonstrates product.
Makahiki Luau
Polynesian Feast & Celebration
“I liked the Pet First Aid, NAPPS Chat Live,
Nutrition, and Pet Sitting 201 (although I would
have liked more). The agenda-workbook was
great! Nice bags too! The staff and members
were very helpful – thanks to everyone who
made the event possible.”
“The agenda-workbook was all-in-one – a great
idea! I liked how friendly all the NAPPS officers
were – I felt like a person, not just a member!”
“Overall a great experience; full of information.
Wonderful camaraderie! I love the opportunity
to network.”
Members networking with Shawn Maxwell,
Certification Committee Member
Board members Jennifer Haralson,
Vickie Reason and Sue Reid.
Sea World
The NAPPS Network • 17

New NAPPS Members
NAPPS Would Like to Welcome the Following
New Members (joined between December 6,
2007 and February 1, 2008)
Arizona
Janet Fuchs, Animal Aficionado Pet Sitting, Scottsdale
Emily Habinck, Fountain Hills Petsitting, Peoria
Arkansas
Leslie Gorrell, Affectionate Pet Sitters, Little Rock
California
Bernardo Alejandro, Happy Dog Service, Los Angeles
Jen Bell, Fetch! Pet Care Of Camarillo
- Newbury Park, Oxnard -, Thousand Oaks
Carol Brooke, Play Ball Pet Sitters, Van Nuys
Kelly Caldwell, Pet Ally, Rolling Hills Estate
Cynthia Chance, PoochHikers!, Santa Monica
Joel Davenport, Dog Day Afternoon, Long Beach
Jeannine Duron-Ehnes, Pet People Sitters, Orange
Jeanna Ebel, Playful Pals Pet Sitters, Wildomar
John Gordon, In Your Home Pet Sitting, Newbury Park
Patti Hock, Pampered Paws, Bakersfield
Pat Katz, Auntie Pat’s Dogs & Cats, Walnut Creek
Judi Lindsay, Greg Daniels Pet Sitting, Pacifica
Rosa McCann, Moondoggie Pet Sitting Service, Oroville
Nora Momtazi, PAWS on the RUN, San Rafael
Gail Naramore, Whispers, Sacramento
Natalia Novacek, Paws Down, Long Beach
Renee Salvatore, Puppy Loven, Castaic
Sonya Shoemaker, Pet Pals Pet Sitting, San Diego
Cynthia Steyer, Caring for Critters, Costa Mesa
Colorado
Tamara Cain, Personalized ‘TLC’” Pet Services”, Denver
Jennifer Giacchi, Friendly Visits, LLC, Westminster
Nadene Jusczak, Step In Pet Care, LLC, Parker
Mary Ellen Petruzzelli, Englewood
Connecticut
Janet Fuchs, Animal Aficionado Pet Sitting, Scottsdale
Mary Carter, Happy Petcare, Stamford
Wendy Levins, Creatures Great and Small, Trumbull
Mandy Oram, Paws and Kisses Pet Sitting Service, Shelton
District of Columbia
Areallia Taylor, Doggietails DogWalking Service, Washington
Florida
Constance Avellino, Animal Ally Pet Services, Riverview
Gina Baiardi, Pet Vacation Resort, Port Saint Lucie
Carla Batts, A Pet’s Best Friend, Tampa
Dianna Bernard, Go Doggy Go, Fort Lauderdale
Cindy Campione, Secure Home Solutions Pet Care, Tampa
Nicole Clark, Critter Sitter, LLC, Haines City
Kathleen Fear, Sit and Stay, Inc., Cooper City
Preston Griffin, A Pet’s Best Friend, Tampa
Marlene Hawley, Happy Spirits Pet Sitter, Oakland Park
Lynn Massenzio, Coconut Creek
Peg Mattos, Pegs Pampered Pets, North Port
Anne McLean, Anne’s Pet Service, Sarasota
Tammy McMahan, Alone At Home Pet Services, Inc., Largo
Paula Miller, Spoiled Rotten Rascals Pet Sitting, Pembroke Pines
Laurie Remmen, Paws At Play, LLC, Fort Lauderdale
Felice Schneider, Pet Sitters And More, Hollywood
Georgia
Shannon Centola, Buckhead Pet Pals, Smyrna
Gail Chandler, Pet Sitting & More, Saint Simons Island
Michelle Kimbrell Cook, Atlanta
Bonnie Wertheimer, Heaven’s Pet Angel, Marietta
Illinois
Kris Borman, Elite Pet Sitting, Elizabeth
Nikki D’Ottavio, Streeterville PAWS, Chicago
Angie Jamison, Fetching Fido, Champaign
Jeremiah Johnson, Executive Dogs, Chicago
Bridgit Maile, Conveze Systems DBA Top Dog Productions, Chicago
Michelle (Shelly) Martin, Shelly’s Pet Pals, Highland
Christina Stokes, Fast Tracks Pet Care, Elmhurst
Kentucky
Lori Reed, Lori’s Pet Sitting Service, Erlanger
Louisiana
Louise Brown, Browns Pet Sitting, Baton Rouge
Maryland
Karen Barry, Kar - A – Pet, North Bethesda
Ceili ‘Kaylee’ Betsch, Eastern Shore Pet Care, Easton
Kimberly Carlson, No Place Like Home Pet Sitting, Woodbine
Massachusetts
Sarah Connolly, Creature’s Comfort Pet Services, Wareham
Karen Gerring, Fishtown Furry Friends, Gloucester
Timothy Smith, Summit Pet Sitting, Inc., North Attleboro
Doug Sweeney, Doug’s Pampered Pets, Burlington
The NAPPS Network • 18

Nebraska
Theresa Brown, A Tail Of 2 Sitters, Omaha
James Gentile, Counterparts, LLC, Omaha
New Hampshire
Pat Soucy, Animal Friends Pet Sitting, LLC,
New Jersey
Susan Bitterman, Pet Care By Susan, Edison
Lynne Blecher, Unleashed Group, Inc., Browns Mills
John Bowlby, Jersey Paws, LLC, Port Murray
Nancy Congdon, Happy Tails, Verona
Paul Delaney, The Dog Walker, Jersey City
Lysa Hannigan, My Fairy Dogmother, LLC, Merchantville
Sean McGrath, Paws At Home, LLC, Andover
Constance McNelis, Connie’s Elite Pet Care, Inc., Margate
New York
Burton Borovetz, New York
Polo Cruz, Paws N’ Claws, Queens
Aaron Hauck, Ahauck Dog Walking & Sitting, Ridgewood
Marcia Kanny, Marcia’s Pet Passion, Brooklyn
Sandra/Lawrence Wallach, Friendly Pet Sitting Service,
Massapequa Park
North Carolina
Irene Cotter, Fur-Fetched, LLC, Raleigh
Kelly Strowd, Fetch! Pet Care, Chapel Hill
Amy Thompson, Pet Sitting At Its Best, Burlington
Rhode Island
Suzanne Johns, Pets Haven, Westerly
Karen Mulcahey, AHEAD OF THE PACK - Pet Pampering, Warwick
Tennessee
Jacqueline Meeks, Green Hills Petsitting, Nashville
Texas
Jennifer Arnett, Jennifurrr’s Pet Services, Austin
Lauren Bradley, 1st Place Pet Sitting, Fort Hood
Joan Wehring, K-9 & Kitty, Houston
Virginia
Brandy Hall, Loving Animals Pet Sitting, Ashland
Susan Howell, TREATS Pet Care, Alexandria
Kelly Massoud, Above & Beyond Pet Care, Moseley
Becky Mullins, Walkin’ Pretty, Fredericksburg
Ashley Samoranski, Petcetera Of Virginia, Remington
Susan Shapiro, Arlington
Washington
Veronica Alford-McGlothan, Nanny Canine, LLC, Richland
Kristine Carter, KC’s Pet Sitting Services, Arlington
Rebecca Chappell, Crazy About Pets, Washougal
Sherrie Gergovich, Pampered Pet Sitting, Vancouver
Raymond Madore, Ray’s Pro Pet Care, Mill Creek
Pennsylvania
Tina Kennedy, Kennedy’s Pet Care Service, Harrisburg
Claudia Ludwig, Claudia Ludwig, Bethlehem
Cynthia Wessner, Cindy Wessner - Pet Nanny, North Wales
The NAPPS Network • 19

National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, Inc.
15000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C • Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054
E-Mail: napps@ahint.com • Website: www.petsitters.org
COMMITTEE APPLICATION
(Print or Type)
As a member of NAPPS, you play a part in the exciting growth of the in-home professional
pet care industry, and you have a voice in the association’s affairs and governance.
You can help shape your association by becoming more involved in the programs
and activities that NAPPS offers. Your time commitment is up to you. You can
be involved as little or as much as you like. By serving on a Committee, you learn
new skills and network with your peers. Get involved today!
Member ID ______________________________________________________
Business Name __________________________________________________
COMMITTEES
Benefits Committee
Develops New Member Benefits.
Participates in Certification Program and
Disaster Preparedness Program.
Oversees Ezine, Volunteer Recruitment,
NAPPS Chat List Serve.
Your Name _____________________________________________________
Address ________________________________________________________
City________________________State__________Zip___________________
Phone ( ____ ) ___________________ Fax ( ____ ) ______________________
Marketing Committee
Promotes NAPPS and the Pet Sitting
Profession. Assists in preparation of
Annual Conference. Reviews Website.
Solicits Corporate Sponsorship.
E-Mail __________________________________________________________
Previous Work Experience _________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Membership Committee
Oversees Membership
Growth and Retention.
_______________________________________________________________
Please indicate the committees on which you would like to serve:
Benefits Committee
Certification Subcommittee
Disaster Preparedness Subcommittee
Marketing Committee
Annual Conference Subcommittee
Partners Subcommittee
Presents 4 Pets Subcommittee
Elementary School Program Subcommittee
Membership Committee