Conference misery::feline

    I checked FELINE_V1 note 400 (Pet Sitting) and apparently there were no
    responses to an inquiry about Pampurred Pets (400.91), located out of 
    Groton, MA.  
    
    I will be needing a cat sitter for my 3 boys in January.  If anyone has
    any info on Pampurred Pets, I would appreciate it if anyone knows of
    this service.  I spoke with Pam (the owner) on the phone and she
    sounded real nice.  She charges $8/day and will take care of pets,
    plants, mail, and trash.  However, I did not get references and am
    curious if she's good.
    
    Thanks,
    Mary (and Barney, Gonezo, and Benjamin)

    Merrimack, New Hampshire has a new grooming service.
    
    Where:   Pets Choice
             Daniel Webster Highway (vicinity of Meineke but opposit side
                                     of  road)
             424-PAWS telephone number
    
    They charge $20. to groom a cat and if you are on a schedule where
    you have it done every 8-12 weeks the charge is $15.00
    
    I don't know what it would be if the cat was really matted but they
    seem like they really want to please and build up their business.
    
    If you are not familiar with them, they carry all sorts of kitty/cat
    foods, toys, brushes, condos, baskets, etc. They also have some dog
    products and bird seed for indoor outdoor, and feeders.
    
    It's a fairly new business and they try really hard to please.
    
    Check them out. (We will be taking Mocha there for his grooming
    needs.)
    
    Barbara

    I have a friend who pet sits in the Northboro MA area.  She works
    with for a vet and has many animals of her own.  She is real good with 
    them and has many repeat customers.  Her name is Barbara Smith and
    she can be reached at 393-5307.  Please let her know that I refered
    her.
    
    Michele

    I'm meeting with Pam from Pampurred Pets this Saturday morning.  In
    case I don't wish to use her, does anyone know what happened to Kajan
    Cat Care out of Westboro?  The numbers in FELINE_V1 (400.38) are no
    longer associated with this service.  
    
    Thanks,
    Mary

    Kajan Pet Sitting Service is still available and still fantastic!!  
    My furnace went on the blink while Kajan was sitting over New Years
    and thank goodness Janet Campbell was in charge!!!
    
    Her phone number is : (508)838-2662

    Thanks for the reply on Kajan... I'll add them back to my phone book.
    
    As for Pampurred Pets, they are no longer in service.  It was being run
    by Pam Patnode but at the time I went away, she got a full time job and
    turned her business over to Sandy Cofran (I think she calls her service
    Cats Pajamas).  Anyway, Sandy turned out to be real good and takes care
    of not only cats, but dogs, horses, and I think anything that has 4
    legs.  While away, she had a concern because a car that had been parked
    in my driveway disappeared and she called us doublechecking that we
    knew about it (which we did).  She spoiled my kitties by making them
    "sundaes" (a combination of dry food, canned, and tender vittles) and
    they loved it.  The house also got a little furry so she vacuumed for
    me.  She spent about 1/2 - 1 hour a day with them giving them massages
    and lots of attention.  She also left notes and gave Barney his daily
    medicine.  She charges $8.00/day which I thought was reasonable.
    
    Should you want to contact Sandy, her number is 508-448-5663.
    
    Mary

    I looked under keywords, but didn't find any listing of groomers.  I am
    looking for a groomer in Nashua, NH.  Anybody know of one?  
    
    Bernice
    
    PS - Moderators, I didn't know how to key this for grooming, so if you
    want to do it that would be fine.  

    Bernice,
    
    Dogpatch, Gilsun Rd. (off Route 111), Nashua does both dogs and cats
    and are excellent.  The # is (603) 883-4020.
    
    Pat
    

    Pets Choice on old route 3 in Merrimack. They charge $23. for the first
    grooming and if you put your cat on a regular schedule, the next ones
    are $15. and they do an excellent job.
    
    Their number is 424-PAWS
    
    Barbara

    Try a lady by the name of Regina, who is the owner of Loving Care
    Poodle Salon in Hudson, N.H.  She is on 102 across the street from
    the Pizza hut, is Ledge Street on the right hand side of the road. 
    Regina has her grooming equipment downstairs in her home, and I have
    been using her for our sheepdog in the past.  She is great and her
    prices are very good.  Call 883-6463.
    
    -Nancy

    CAT/HOUSE SITTER NEEDED
    
    My husband and I are looking for a responsible cat/house sitting
    for the week before Thanksgiving (possibly 2 weeks before
    Thanksgiving).
    
    Can anyone make some recommendations for the Merrimack, NH area?
    
    Thanks much.
    
    Nancy

    Need cat sitter in Holden, Ma. for 9 days next month.
    
    If anyone knows of someone who is in this greater area, please post.
    
    
          thanks

    Need cat sitter (4) for 9 days in July - Holden Ma.
    
    
    If you know of someone please respond here or send me a vaxmail.
    
     thanks

    Does anyone know of a cat sitter that is located in the Hopkinton area? 
    I called Kajan Pet Sitting, but she is actually located in Berlin
    (works in Westboro...fyi, call her at work 1-800-666-4400 x2625 rather
    than the number listed previously).  She charges by distance from
    her home...so it would be $20/day.  I would prefer a sitter that was
    closer/less expensive.
    
    Thank you,
    
    Diana

    
    If you are looking for a catsitter in the Northboro / Marlboro
    area, I highly recommend Barbara Smith ... one of my cats had
    a sore on his paw that concerned me - Barbara works at Northboro
    vet clinic and offered to soak the paw and take him in if she
    felt it got worse...
    
    Great feeling to go on vacation with her in charge.
    
    		phone number is 393-5307
    
    	
    	ellen and cino and buco and grappa

    We used to use Pet Companions based out of Bedford, NH but they've
    recently ended their business.  (why I'll never know - they were doing
    quite well despite the economy!)  Does anyone use a pet sitting service
    in the greater Manchester, NH area that they could highly recommend? 

    I'm trying to place several cats in new homes and was looking for
    someone to foster them temporarily.  I called NARF (Nike Animal 
    Rescue Foundation) and all their foster homes are full.  However, 
    they did send me a 6 page (double-sided) brochure called 
    "Guidelines for Placing Pets" that I will gladly share with any
    one who is interested.  If I get really ambitious I will type it
    into a file so I can send it electronically.  Until that time, if
    you want a copy of this brochure please send mail to JULIET::CORDES_JA.
    Be sure to give me your return address or mailstop.
    
    Jan

    My friend is pet sitting full time now.  She's Licensed, Insured, 
    and Bonded.  Capable to handle medical cases.  She'll do lunch 
    time duty, water plants, take in mail and turn lights on and 
    off....whatever.

    Barbara is in Northboro, MA and will travel (expenses charged 
    accordingly).

    Many noters have used her services.  

    Call Barbara at 508-393-5307.

    Michele

    If Hudson is near you, here goes:
    CAT NAPS
    DeDe Dixon
    5 High Street
    Hudson, MA 01749
    508-339-4384
    You can tell her you got her name from me.  She was at our last show
    and was very nice and had all kinds of pictures.  I would try her.
    Karen

Try asking your vet. They might know of someone, or, as
happened with a friend of mine, a young girl in the office
said she could sit (dog-sitting in this case)(for a fee,
of course).


                                Susan

We're looking for a pet sitter for our assorted menagerie,
as it says in the title:  dogs, cats and llamas.

Any recommendations for someone in the Southern NH area
who would take on a job like that?  We live in Wilton
which is about 20 miles west of Nashua and are looking
for someone to come twice a day to feed/water/scoop.  I'd
love to find someone who would "live in" but that's not
absolutely required.  

We are just getting into showing the llamas and expect to
be away for several weekends/overnights (meaning they'd
just have dogs and cats to sit for) but we also need some
one for vacations and holidays (neither of our sets of
parents travel so it means we go there).

All suggestions greatly appreciated, we haven't been
totally satisfied with the woman we're using now and 
would like to find someone new and improved.

JanB

     
   I'd just like to mention Critter Nannies in Colorado Sps, in case
   anyone out there is looking for a pet-sitter in this area.  Carole
   Morgan is the owner, and her phone number is 719/661-1498.  She charges
   reasonable rates and is bonded and insured.  Actually, I work for her       
   agency myself, and I think she provides a great service.  Her card says
   "from hamsters to horses...we love 'em when you leave 'em!"  You can
   also contact her by writing PO Box 10228 Colorado Sps, CO 80932.  This
   company is highly recommended!        
        
                            -Beth
          
           

    Hi,
    
    I'm in need of a cat sitter.  This will be the first time I've left my
    kitties with anyone.  One cat will take it fine, the other one will 
    probably never be seen.  I live in the Sudbury area and have looked in
    local papers and have seen ads for two pet sitting agencies(?).  Seeing
    as I've never done this before I was wondering if you all could give me
    some ideas of questions to ask, things to look for etc.  I really want
    a cat loving and trustworthy person.
    
    Specifically I'd like the sitter to come in every other day and feed
    the cats and give them fresh water, and scoop the poops too. It would 
    also be great if they could bring the mail in and water the indoor
    plants.
    
    Does anyone know of anyone/agency that provides this kind of service?
    
    Thanks for any information you my provide.
    
    - Lauri

    
    I've always relied on friends of mine who visit frequently enough that
    the cats know them and feel comfortable with them, and who like the
    cats and are happy to take care of them.  I also reward them for their
    assistance with a souvenir from wherever I've been (they're building
    up a nice collection of exotic tee-shirts...).
    
    len.
    

    I thought of friends, but all of them are 30-60 minutes away.  I feel
    like that is a bit much to ask (1 hour - 2 hour round trip) for about 
    4 trips.
    
    Thanks for the idea.
    
    - Lauri
    

I have used pet sitting agencies, and this is what I would recommend:

  You should meet the person who will actually be coming by--not just the person
  in charge. You should request that you get the same person for each visit.
  Introduce that person to your cats (or to at least the friendly one).
  Chances are the person is a cat lover, or wouldn't be doing this kind of
  of work. But you might mention any particular likes/dislikes your cats 
  have (e.g., they do/do not like to be picked up, etc.)

  Show the person where everything is, including favorite cat toys, plants that
  will need to be watered, and the probable hiding place of your shy cat. Also
  show them where cleaning supplies are kept, in case there's an accident. 
  (You never know, between hairballs, a less-than-clean litter box, or general
  peevishness at being left alone.) It's a good idea for the person to show
  up at about the same time each time that he/she comes.

  Be sure to leave the name/phone number of your vet, so they will know who to
  call in an emergency. You should also leave a number where you can be reached.

  In terms of the agency itself, you might call the Better Business Bureau to
  find out whether there have been any complaints made about it.  Also, ask the
  agency whether they are bonded, which gives you insurance coverage in case
  of any problems.

  Good luck!

    Great ideas!  I feel better already.
    
    - Lauri
    

			LESLIE'S PET SITTING SERVICE
			******** *** ******* *******


A former Digital employee has recently started up her own pet sitting business
& she asked me to let all of you Feliners know about it.  The name of her
business is LESLIE'S PET SITTING SERVICE.  Leslie is available to feed & care
for your animals -- she does aardvarks to zebras! -- anywhere in a 1/2 hour
travel time radius of Boxborough.  

Leslie charges $10/day for two (2) visits per day.  She offers a deluxe package
at $15/day for animal care plus picking up mail, watering plants & house-
sitting.

She is considering a first-time-client special rate of $5/day -- call her for
more details.

LESLIE'S PET SITTING SERVICE can be reached by calling:

508-264-9422.

Quality pet care while you are away. Why board your companion in a kennel
when your pet could relax at home. Nancy offers quality home care with a 
personal touch. She has 7 years experience in home care and is a graduate
from Becker Veterinary Technician Program. She has worked in Veterinary 
practice for about 6 years. She will provide care for small and large 
animals for reasonable prices. If you would like more information please 
call:
                   Nancy Thompson
                   Lunenburg,  Mass. 
                   (508)-582-4058

References available

    I also do pet sitting in their homes, water the plants, bring in the
    mail, turn on lights, etc. I've had the Veterinary Nursing course at
    Becker and worked in an animal hospital for 2 years. I have 20+ years
    experience with various dogs and cats! I charge $10/day plus mileage.
    I work in Hudson and live in Auburn, MA.
    
    Sari
    references available from people AND the Hon. Colonel Sebastian
    Moran,DROFFC. (not to mention the three dogs!)

    Being new to notes I just discovered I replied to a note when I really
    meant to enter a new one and I don't know how to delete it.  Oh,
    well...sorry.
    
    Anyway, here it is again.  I live in Andover and am looking for a
    reliable pet sitting service.  In January I will be going away for a
    long weekend and would rather keep my furface at home while I'm gone. 
    I don't just want to pick one at random as I want to be sure "Tigger"
    will be well taken care of when I'm not there.  So if anyone out there
    has had any experience with a pet sitting service in my area, please
    let me know.
    
    Again, sorry about the confusion with my previous note.
    
    Thanks,
    
    Marilyn

    Can anyone recommend a good cat sitting service in the Sudbury/Marlboro
    area? Or, if anyone does this on the side, please send me information
    about your services (charges, requirements, what services you offer)
    etc. I am looking to have someone come into my home several times over
    the next year to care for my 3 year old cat. Length of time varies from
    2 nights (long holiday weekends) to weeklong vacations.
    
    Please contact me by EMAIL. Thanks,
    
    Cyndi

    
    
    					1
    
    
    	This is just an idea in reponse to Cyndi's need for a repsonisble
    cat sitting service for those of you cat lovers that are involved in
    cat shelters and humane societies.  
    
    	Perhaps your organization could set up a cat sitting service as a
    fund raiser, using your volunteers?  It would seem to me that this
    situtation would be a WIN/WIN, for both cat owner and cat shelter?
    
    	Is this already being done?
    
    Regards,
                                         
    eleanor

    That is a good idea for fundraising...but my concern would be
    to find enough dedicated, responsible volunteers to do the work.
    These volunteers would definitely have to be dedicated and
    responsible..or the program wouldn't work.
    
    At the Pat Brody Shelter we are involved in MANY fundraising 
    events...and it never fails that the only issue is finding good
    responsible volunteers to cover the events; especailly if we have
    three things going on in one weekend. We do have some volunteers
    that are dedicated...but those are the ones you fall back on
    when other volunteers say they will work...but don't show up!!!
    Those are the same ones that are also starting to get burnt out.
    
    I would think for this idea to work...you would need to find atleast
    5-6 volunteers who could do this during the day...at night..and also
    on weekends!!  Finding those volunteers are tougher then you think!!!!
    
    Sandy (who's almost burnt out)
    
    
    

    Sandy,
    
     My thoughts exactly! Right now, my shelter is paying someone to work
    during the day at the shelter from Monday thru Friday, because everyone
    works, and we can't get volunteers during the week. The person we have
    is great, and I'm sure she's not getting paid a great amount, but
    enough to make a part time job worth while I would imagine.
    
     I don't think we could get anyone to do pet sitting for the day time
    hours either. And, being one of the ones the Brody shelter 'falls back
    on' when someone else bags an event, I have to keep my time available
    for them too! ;-)
    
     It is a wonderful idea though. If we could only figure a way to make
    it work! Put on your thinking caps!
    
    Yonee

    I like this idea, and would be willing to volunteer for the Manchester,
    NH area.... with proceeds going to the PBS... BUT!!!!!!  I think there
    might be an issue with bonding people.  I know we can trust each other,
    but how do the "customers" know, and how can they be guaranteed the
    safety of their homes?  Also, the safety of the volunteer, should they
    be accused of a wrong doing????

    Great idea, but may have some nasty snags in it!

    M-L

    Try Kajan Cat Care, in Berlin, MA. They're very good and very
    dependable. 508/838-2662. Ask for Janet.
    
    ken
    

    
    
    	Yes, I agree, there are snags, but I wonder if any organization
    has thought of this and is actually doing it?   Perhaps all of us
    could ask around.  We all have contacts.  I have a friend who is
    active in the San Francisco Humane Society and devotes as much time
    as she can to cats after work.  I will ask her if there is anything
    like that (cat shelter/ cat sitting fund raising) going on 'out
    there'.  California is sooo..... innovative.
    
    	If this is feasible, you can always start small.  Having reliable
    volunteers is very important - as well as their safety.  I wonder what
    cat siiting services need to do protect themselves and customers?  I
    have no idea how much bonding people costs, but that may be the major
    drawback to this idea, so that it would not be feasible.  Also, I 
    suppose, what if the volunteer is bitten?  Sigh, nothing is ever easy
    in this society.
    
    ems
       

    I have a cat sitting service. Also dog sitting, rabbit sitting, fish
    sitting and chicken sitting. I charge $10/day for one visit, plus
    mileage. I work in Hudson, so it shouldn't be very far! I handle
    medication, cuddling, serious discussion about Important Topics, bring
    in the mail, water the plants, etc. References from Loki, Midnight and
    Bigfoot Fease available! (Also references from the Hon. Col. Sebastian 
    Moran,DROFFC.)
    Sari

    Thanks for all the suggestions, I have decided to go with Companion
    Pet Sitting out of Northboro (Barbara Smith) 508-393-5307.

    For those noters that remember Cindy Fischer she has just recently
    added the following service to her Pet Sitting Service: 
    
          INTRODUCING:  HOME DELIVERY OF PREMIUM CAT FOOD
                        FOR THE WESTFORD, CHELMSFORD AREAS
    
                              Cindy Fishcer
                          Faithful Friend Pet Care
                              (508)-251-3412
    
          Advantages of home delivery:           Current Stock includes:
    
             o Convenience                         o Precise Cat food
             o Personal Service                    o Neura Cat Food
             o Competitive cost                    o Old Mother Hubbard
             o Free delivery
    

               <<< MISERY::APPLE$:[NOTES$LIBRARY]FELINE.NOTE;1 >>>
           -< Meower Power - Where Differing Opinions are Respected >-
================================================================================
Note 689.9          MYSTERY AILMENT - EAR SLOUGHING & ANEMIA             9 of 12
DECWET::GIRDLER                                       7 lines  12-JAN-1994 09:42
                            -< Critter Sitter Inc. >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Her name is Lark Stebbins, and her business is the Critter Sitter Inc.
    Her phone is 392-6014.
    I have been using her for 4 years, and have gone away for as long as
    10 days and left the kids in her care. She will come meet them, take a
    full medical history, etc before you leave them the first time. She
    charges $15 per visit.
    Tell her you got her name from me...

    Just some adds of interest that I saw in The Community Advertiser
    (services Westboro, Northboro, Shrewsbury, Southboro, Marlboro):
    
    Pet sitting:
    
    PAWS
    792-3631
    Professional Animal Watching Service
    Servicing Westboro and Surrounding Towns
    Mid-day Dog Walks
    Licensed-Insured-Bonded
    
    Gail's Kennel Alternative
    Pet Sitting Service
    842-3169
    Providing Loving Care for Your Pets in Their Home
    Affordable Rates Starting at $6 per Visit
    
    
    Companion Pet Sitting
    Barbara Smith
    393-5307
    Let Companion Pet Sitting care for your pet's needs in his/her own
    environment
    Over 15 years experience
    Grooming with free pick-up and delivery
    Medical cases welcome
    Licensed-insured-bonded
    
    Vets:
    
    Veterinary House Calls
    508-792-0601
    Susan O'Neill DVM
    Cats-Dogs-Sheep-Goats
    Call for appointment/information
    

    Moderator:  I did a title search and couldn't
    find what I needed.  Feel free to move this if
    it's in the wrong place.
    
    I need a pet sitter for my three cats.  The people
    who usualy pet sit for us cannot do it and we need
    someone for 5 days, starting Friday, Feb 25 until
    Wednesday, March 2. I have been trying to find somebody but
    to no avail.
                    
    What I need is the following:
    
    1. Somebody to come to the house twice a day
    and put out dry food in the a.m. and feed them
    canned food in the p.m.
    
    2.  Somebody who has no problem with the fact that
    our cats are outdoor cats and  not confined to the
    indoors.
    
    If you know of a relialbe person, please contact me
    directly at MEMIT::MILANESE.  
    
    I live in Littleton a few miles from LKG.
    
    
    Thanks,
    
    Sylvia 
    
    
    

    The sitter we use is in Bedford, MA and is VIP Sitters.  Their number
    is 617-862-3670.  They have been doing our sitting for about 8 years
    now and the owner, Sue McCombs is a peach.  Feel free to use my name if
    you call: Linda Schultz from Burlington, MA.
    
    Hope you find someone, I know what it's like to have to make
    arrangements at the last minute.
    
    Linda

	I've got a girl who I thought was fixed but Spring has come
	and she went into heat yesterday (probably the day before since
	that's when she started waking me up at 5am!).

	In any case, I'd like to get her fixed ASAP, and plan on getting
	one of those "Friend's of Animals" spaying certificates so I
	can get her fixed for I believe $38.  However I'm wondering if anyone
	has one they haven't used that I can purchase?

	If not, does anyone know if the organization has a telephone number
	and will accept credit cards?

	Thanks!

    The toll free number for FOA is 800-321-7387.
    

>     The toll free number for FOA is 800-321-7387.

	Thanks!  They do indeed take credit cards and they will
	be mailing me the certificate on Monday!

    I'm looking for a reliable cat sitter, for one week in April, to 
    watch my four-year old Coon cat. I'd like someone to come in once or 
    twice a day to feed her and play with her. We're located in 
    Littleton, MA. Please reply by mail (GRILLA::KURKJIAN) if you're 
    interested.
    
    Thanks, 
    
    Linn 

I'm looking for a reliable cat/house sitter in Londonderry NH.  I've 
got an indoor/outdoor cat who just isn't happy being boarded (can't 
say that I blame her) and I'd like to find someone to come in twice a 
day and spend a few minutes with her, etc.  I'd also like this person 
to gather the mail and newspapers and give a bit of a lived-in look 
while we're on vacation. 

I looked through the yellow pages and saw an ad for Pet Pleasers in 
Derry - anyone have experience with them?  Anyone know of any other
pet sitting services in Londonderry/Derry?  

If you know of someone who might be interested, please contact me on
JARETH::AVERY. 

thanks,

- Sue Avery

    
    	I am looking for some kitties that would like company while
    	their owners are away. I will come to the kitties home at least
    	once a day, to feed and play with them, for at least a 1/2 hour.
    	I will pick-up mail and water plants/lawn. I have almost 20 years
        experience of taking care of my own cats, which has included
    	giving medications and basic first aid (thank god they finally 
    	settled down). I am located in Northboro, Ma. 
    
    	$40.00 - weekly
    	$ 7.00 - daily
    
    	Deb Fay 
    	ASDG::FAY
    	DTN 225-5356 (8:00 am - 4:00 pm)
    	Home 508-393-5178

    			    ******* Companion Pet Sitting *******
    	          An experienced companion for any occasion
    
    	     		Serving the greater Northboro, MA area
    
    				                393-5307
    
        Member of NAPPS (National Assoc of Professional Pet Sitters)
    
    
    
    Barbara is my friend and has been doing this for many years now.  
    (see notes .4 and .20).  She has pet-sat for many Digital employees.  
    She handles all types of animals (horses, dogs, cats, birds....).
    Give her a call, you won't be disappointed!
    
    Michele

    A coworker left a brochure on my desk which I found when I returned
    from vacation.  I thought I'd share the information with any 
    interested feliners.
    
    
    HOMELESS CAT NETWORK
    
    Almost everone has seen them...
    darting between buildings...
    running across highways...
    foraging in dumpsters...
    and worse!
    
    These are the Peninsula's [posters' note:  San Francisco Bay Area]
    homeless cats.  Their plight is a scary one.  Most have never felt the
    stroke of a loving hand or the luxury of knowing where their next meal
    will come from.
    
    Homeless cats cannot survive on their own.  They are not wildlife, yet
    people regularly dump and abandon them, assuming they will survive.  It
    is one of the worst forms of cruelty; they die young and suffer through
    disease, fear and hunger.
    
    The people of the HOMELESS CAT NETWORK want this to change.  Some
    people in our communities have been trying to help these little
    victims.  We applaud their efforts and encourage people who care to
    become members.  By doing so, more of these unfortunate cats can be
    helped.
    
    We continue to be encouraged by our numerous successes including
    placing many, many wonderful cats and kittens in loving homes.
    
    HOMELESS CAT NETWORK PROMOTES:
    
    - responsible pet ownership
    
    - pet education, for all ages, to enusre proper care and respect for
      all animals.
    
    - information and support for anyone wanting to help the homeless cats
    
    
    HOW YOU CAN HELP:
    
    - become a foster home to a kitten or cat until a permanent home can be
      found.
    
    - help others feed homeless, feral colonies.
    
    - help humanely trap and transport cats to and from the vet for spay/
      neutering.
    
    - make a monetary donation.
    
    Our non-profit organization is run entirely by volunteers allowing all
    donations to go directly to the care of homeless cats!
    
    
    BECOME A MEMBER
    
    Your membership will help feed the hungry, heal the sick and injured,
    and help spay/neuter and vaccinate countless numbers of cats.
    
    	__ Annual Membership			$15
        -- Supporting Membership		$30
        -- Patron				$100
    	-- Lifetime				$500
    	-- Pet Membership			$5
    	   Pet's name___________________
    	__ Memorial			amount  $_______
    	   Name_________________________
    		(pet or person)
    	__ Donation			amount  $_______
    	__ More information.
    	__ Volunteer only.
    
    	Name:
    	Address:
    	City:			State:
    	Zip:			Date:
    	Home Phone:
    	Work Phone:
    
    Make checks payable to HOMELESS CAT NETWORK and mail to:
    
    			P.O. Box 6
    			San Carlos, CA  94070
    			Phone:  415-286-9013
    
    HOMELESS CAT NETWORK is a registered non-profit organization.  Your
    contribution is tax deductible.
    
    
    And, on the back of the brochure is the following poem:
    
    STRAY CAT
    
    Oh, what unhappy twist of fate 
    Has brought you, homeless, to my gate
    The gate where once another stood
    To beg for shelter, warmth and food?
    For from that day I ceased to be
    The master of my destiny,
    While she, with purr and velvet paw
    Became, within my house, The Law.
    She scratched the furniture and shed
    And claimed the middle of my bed.
    She ruled in arrogance and pride
    And broke my heart the day she died.
    So if you really think, oh cat
    I'd willingly relive all that
    Because you come, forlorn and thin
    Well--don't just stand there--come on in!
    
    		-by Francis Witham
    
    
    Have to admit I was brought to tears while typing that.  Perhaps
    I'll cross post it in another topic.
    
    
    Jan

    Can anyone recommend a cat sitter for the Chelmsford area? Thanks

    	
    Puss & Boots - Pet Sitting Services
    
    My neighbor, Jody Issod, has been doing pet sitting for awhile now.
    She watches my cats for me whenever I go away and she really takes
    great care of them.  Lots of petting, brushing, and talking to them
    along with the feeding and cleaning.  She also watches dogs with
    all that goes with it.  
    
    She has Vet Clinic experience and I highly recommend her.  Like
    many folks in here, she's just crazy about animals.
    
    She's in Marlboro so please give her a call at (508) 460-1996.
    
    Thanks - Tom
    

    Can anyone point me to a reputable pet sitter in the Worcester area?  I
    don't know if 'pet-sitter' is the right word.  Specifically, I'm
    looking for someone to come over my house once or twice a day to check
    on my cats.
    
    I could have sworn there was an entry in here on this subject, but I
    have not been able to locate the note.
    
    Chris

    Auntie Sari here. I live in Auburn and work in Hudson. I've been doing
    pet sitting (mostly cats) for the past year. I charge $10/visit and
    very reasonable mileage if it is out of my way. I feed, cuddle,
    medicate and share appropriate kitty gossip. I never go away, so I'm
    always available on holidays.
    
    Give me a call if you're still in need!
    
    Sari
    DTN 225-4827
    

    I Live in Worcester, and have used "Pets R Us", a woman named Sandy.
    She is unbelievably dedicated and thorough.  I had to write out a note
    givng her temporary custody of the cats so that she could get them
    treated if they were sick (I was gone 4 days), the instructions on
    feeding and caretaking (of the litter box) and
    where I could be reached in an emergency.  She medicated my cat Sassy
    who has asthma, and made me call her when I came home so that she could
    be sure that the kids were being taken care of.  She charged me $8 a
    day for two visits for 2 cats.  The number is 754-3982, and you will need 
    to be interviewed, as well as introduce the cats to her.  
    

    Faithful Friend Pet Care
    Cindy Fraser
    15 Kiberd Drive
    N. Chelmsford, MA 01863
    (508) 251-3412
    
    
    House-call pet sitting - for your peace of mind.
    
    She also supplies Innova pet foods.
    Karen

Newsgroups: rec.pets.cats,alt.animals.felines,rec.pets
Subject: Free spay/neuter cats in San Jose,CA
Date: 1 Dec 1994 01:16:33 -0800
Organization: CRL Dialup Internet Access	(415) 705-6060  [Login: guest]
Lines: 19


South Bay Animal Licensing in San Jose, CA has received a grant allowing
them to be able to pay the full cost of spay/neuter cats in San Jose.
San Jose residents may arrange to have *as many* cats as they want spayed
or neutered.....this includes any feral cats! I belive this offer is
open only to residents of San Jose, CA.

For more information call the South Bay Animal Licensing office at
(408)277-2965

Please do not reply to me...I am only passing on this information to
the public. I do not have any further information on this program.

	Dan Roberts		[email protected]
	Cavy-R Caviary
	Guinea Pig Rescue
	San Jose, CA

       I can strongly recommend Carole and Milt Roberts in Nashua, NH,
       882-3667.  Carole didn't simply come over and feed our cats while
       we were away -- she took the time to play with them and keep them
       company.  This was the first time that we'd used Carole and Milt,
       and Leonard & Stanley seemed *much* happier (i.e., less surly)
       when we returned.  
       
       --Don & Fran�oise

       
       I'm looking for a dependable cat-sitting service in the
       Bedford/Billerica area.  If you have any recommendations, (esp. if
       you've used the service and have been satisfied, please let me
       know either with a reply here or by e-mail.  If you have been
       disappointed with any service, I'd also appreciate any information
       (e-mail only, though).
       
       --Don

    I vote for VIP Sitters 617-275-2369.  We have used them for at least 8
    years and have never been disappointed.  They come once a day, feed
    cats, clean litterboxes, take in mail.  Last Feb, the last use, the
    charge was still $10.00 a day.  
    
    Linda

    I am looking for a house/pet sitter for
    a week in August.
    
    We have a person who usually house sits
    for us, but she is taking a month long
    assignment and is unavailable.
    
    We have 3 cats and 1 dog.
    
    We prefer a house sitter because our
    animals are outdoor animals and the
    dog, a wonderful old golden retriever,
    gets hysterical and runs away during
    thunderstorms.
    
    Often we have had to retrieve 8^) her
    from pet jail.
    
    However, a good pet sitter who would come
    to the house twice a day would also be 
    good.  
    
    I live in Littleton.
    
    I've read the notes here, but am not
    certain who is still doing this work
    and is close to Littleton.
    
    Feel free to contact me directly
    HANNAH::MILANESE
    297-5309
    
    
    As I said, our pets are outdoor pets.
    We have had house/pet sitters turn us
    down because we let our pets out.
    Just an FYI....
    
    
    Sylvia Milanese
    

    Are there any FELINErs in the San Jose area who might consider
    looking in on my cats on Saturday, July 29th while I'm attending
    my cousins wedding in Reno.  I would be happy to return the favor
    at the first opportunity.
    
    My mom and sister usually watch them but they're going with me.
    My standby sitter is out of town herself.  I have a last resort
    sitter who can come but she has to take the bus across town to 
    do it and I'm feeling a bit guilty about asking her to do that.  
    I also have one other person at work that might consider it but 
    she doesn't have much experience with cats and I'm feeling a bit 
    insecure about asking her.  So, I've come to the experts for help.
    
    I will be leaving Friday, July 28th and can load them up with food
    and water before I go.  I'm coming back on Sunday afternoon.  If
    I only had 3-4 cats I'd feel okay about just leaving them tons of 
    food and water and expecting that things would be okay.  With 8
    anything can happen in 3 days.
    
    I'd just feel better if they were checked on Saturday and had their
    food and water refilled.  
    
    Please let me know if there's any one out there that would consider
    this in exchange for return pet care.
    
    Jan
    
    P.S.  This is so strange.  I've had my August vacation cat sitter 
          planned for months but this little 3 day trip totally slipped
          my mind.  My sister asked me just the other day who was watching
          my cats for that weekend.  My response..."geez, that's a good 
          question."

Not much in this note and what's here is old.

Any recent experiences with groomers in Nashua/Amherst/Merrimack?

    
    
    	My vet does grooming.  I had my Himalayan bathed and shaved
    	(she was severely matted up) for $20.
    
    	Merrimack Veterinary Hospital.  424-9922
    
    	JJ
    

    Jan,
    
    if you can't find anyone, perhaps someone at your vet's office (a vet
    tech or something) will do it for a small fee. 
    
    Deb

    I could not find recommendations for a good groomer anywhere.  I am in
    the Littleton area and our 3 year old kitten Gypsy has awful mats.  I'm
    afraid we can't get them under control and would like to take her to a
    groomer.
    
    Unfortunately, we caught this kitten (along with his siblings) in an
    abandoned barn where she was traumitized to put it mildly.  The cat has
    never really gotten over it and only comes out when its quiet and our
    family is alone without company.  She is very little (5lbs) and still
    has her claws.  As any lover of animals, I do not want her to get upset
    over this and really need a nice understanding groomer for the
    procedure.
    
    Can anyone recommend anyone to me and give me expectations to price and
    time she will require at the facility?
    
    Thanks in advance,
    
    cj

    there is a good groomer (I know a few people who use them) in W.
    Concord.  Look in the phone book under pets - I think.  It's on
    Commonwealth Ave.  I can't remember the name.  But, they are supposed
    to be good.
    
    Valerie
    
    p.s. Let me know if you can't find them
    

    
    I think Valerie refers to "Master Dog & Cat Grooming"?  The book shows
    them at 369-8586.  I've never been there myself as my babies are all
    shorthairs.
    
    cj, is Gypsy the sister of my Othello?  It took him over 2-1/2 years to
    untraumatize to the point where he didn't run from everyone and
    everything.  He's now about 75% as friendly and loving as my other two.
    Interestingly enough, he turned the corner after my husband moved out.
    
    What in the world happened to them in that barn before you rescued them
    8^/?
    
    Sorry, I got off the topic.

  We don't do it for a living so we may not do quite as wonderful a job as a
groomer, but we see plenty of "clip matts" critters, including one of mine. If
you have a dog and have a specific cut in mind, we couldn't do the job. On the
other hand, if your cat just needs a bunch of tangles removed, a tech with a set
of clippers can take care of it pretty quickly.

						Trace

    Wow, Othello and Gyspy are sister and brother.. what a small world!
    
    I will give the place in West Concord a call.  I know the mats are
    just too big for us to get out.
    
    Gypsy is doing pretty well, but she is no way near as friendly as our
    other cats (she does ok with us).  The story is that the people who lived
    downstairs from us had several cats; four adults and then one had a
    litter.  At this time they were splitting us and going their separate
    ways.  The women moved about before the man and took one adult with
    her.  She said that she couldn't take anymore and didn't know (or care
    I got the feeling) what the man would do with the others.  I knew that
    he wouldn't care and took one adult to my parents.  I found out about
    three weeks later when he returned and we informed him that we were
    leaving food for the babies and other adult that he hoped that they
    would leave and he would "take care of them".  The minute he left we
    tried grabbing as many as we could.  We got three babies (Othello,
    Gypsy and another that the landlord took) and found one baby dead under
    the couch!  
    
    So by now your thinking that this is just awful and so did we.  I
    wanted to contact the authorities but my husband said because we were
    the only ones to know about this that there was no telling what he
    would do it our cats or us so we left it alone and did what we could. 
    We never found the other adult cat.  
    
    Sad story eh?  I'm glad Othello is doing well.  He was such a hard cat
    to catch.  It took us several days.  A quick one for sure!
    
    cj  
    

    once you get the mats comed out/shaved off, make a point of combing the
    cat every day; even if the cat will let you do it for 30 seconds,
    within a week it will be up to a minute, and so on. In this way, you
    will prevent the cat from getting matted again.
    
    Deb

    I am in need of a petsitter that will do insulin
    shots.  Does anyone know of anyone in the Leominster,
    Ayer, Littleton, Groton, Harvard ... etc. area that
    would do this?  If so, please let me know.
    
    
    Thanks,
    Tammy Chambers

    
    Diane Ferris
    WILLEE::FERRIS
    dtn 237-5118
    
    Does anyone know of a good cat sitter in the Leominster/Clinton area.
    
    My friend Diana Urban is looking for someone to take care of her 2 
    cats over the Columbus Day Weekend.
    
    Her # is 617-890-6600 or you can call me at dtn 237-5118.
    
    Thanks
    Diane Ferris

    VIP Sitters is the group I have used fo years.  Their number is:
    
    			617-275-2369
    
    I highly recommend them.  I leave them a note when we go away giving
    the telephone number of where we are staying and any special
    instructions and always find their note to me on the back of it when we
    come home giving a running account of what happened while we were gone. 
    

    
    Hello all,
    
    Because of a trip I'm about to take, I'm in need of a Kitty sitter 
    in the Newton area. My usual resource (a friend) is relocating to 
    Florida so she can't be of any help this time. Willow is an older
    kitty (18+) years and I really want her to be cared for where she 
    is most com-fur-able (home). Does anyone have a recommendation,
    preferably someone who's bonded and insured? 
    
    				thanks /jack
    

    Services needed !!!!!!!

    While I have a couple people would are willing to come in and check on the
    house & cats, they're not comfortable with the dogs (2 small ones - 1 is
    a toy poodle, the other a bichon).  To board the dogs means an extra day 
    or two before I could pick them up because I always take them to the 
    groomer before brining them back to the house (heaven knows we don't need 
    them bringing FLEAS back to the cats !!!!) !!

    So I'm wondering if there's anyone out there (you or someone you know)
    who'd be willing to stop in twice a day, take care of 4 cats & 2 dogs,
    as well as pick up mail, turn lights on/off and just generally check
    on the place.

    Location is North Leominster, MA, just off Route 13.

    address, specific dates to be discussed

    I am looking for someone to care for my well-behaved 9-year
    old tortoise shell female from February 4 - March 5.
    
    Zecky is affectionate, cute, playful and just generally wonderful.
    I will pick up and deliver her to you, plus provide all food, litter, 
    litter box, comb, toys, etc., and pick her up on 3/5.
    
    Would also consider someone caring for her part of this time, but would 
    prefer that one person take her for the entire 5 weeks.
    
    Please reply by mail.  
    
    Thanks!

    PS: Zecky is a low-key, pure-bred Persian.

    I still have not found a temporary home for Zecky (see 28.82).
    
    I am willing to pay, but would prefer not to put her in a kennel.
    
    Does anyone have any suggestions? Please? Time is running out!
    
    Thanks!
    

Sort of a "service wanted"...

  Have you yearned for the fast-paced, action-packed life of a veterinary
technician? The Animal Hospital of Nashua (Just off Route 3, exit 5) has an
opening for a weekend tech. Hours are Sat. 8-4:30 (or so) and Sunday 8-or-9 to
4-or-5 (your choice). We have regular appointments Saturday, and Sunday is
pretty much reserved for cleaning. Job can include kennel work, helping in
radiology, treatments, assisting the doctors out back with scheduled
appointments, emergencies, cleaning, etc. We have 3 doctors and 9 staff, handle
emergencies 24x365 (you aren't required to come in during off hours, however
there's not much more invigorating than watching the sun rise while you finish
up helping on a 4 a.m. C-section :-), and are shortly going to be moving from
our present 2200 square foot location to a nearby 8000 square foot brand new,
built-just-for-us, facility. The position involves some physical work (lifting
dogs, keeping sidewalks clear during snow storms, etc) and limited contact with
the public (mostly taking in animals on Sunday that are being dropped off for
Monday surgery). We're a pretty cool group of people to work with and our staff
turnover is low - most of the lay staff (non-Dr's) have been there 3 or more
years (I've been there over 5). Experience isn't necessary but a willingness
to work with animals is. You won't be able to retire on what your earn there
(starting pay's around $5/hour depending on experience), but the money's not
that bad and the job offers a lot of other rewards for those who love working
with animals.  For more info you can call the hospital at 598-9722.  Actually,
other than "We're asking people to come down and fill out applications, to get
here..." you probably won't hear too much more than what's above.  You can
also contact me at DTN 381-2400 or UHUH::TALCOTT if you have any questions you
think I might be able to help you with.

						Trace

    For anyone in the Leominster/Lunenburg/surrounding towns who
    needs or knows of anyone who is looking for an experienced
    Pet/House Sitter:
    
    
                            Kelly Pet & Home Care
    
                                508-537-7728
                     (Please leave message if no answer)
    
                          **References Available**
    
    
        While you are away on vacation or business:
    
        Will provide loving care for your dogs/cats/horses/birds/etc.
        Will water plants, take in mail/newspapers/etc. and anything
        else that needs tending to while you are away.
    
    
                                                                 

Anybody know of a service for temporary cat care & feeding in the East Bay
area of Northern California (the closer to Berkeley the better)?

We've been imposing on friends and neighbors to date, but we'd like to plan
a longer vacation and would prefer to get someone we can pay :-) (and
who could do the litter box).

(Our cat-helpers have become mostly trained by Molly -- at the end of the
last vacation we had a message "Sorry to have left the lights on, but
I just couldn't leave that poor cat eating in the dark one more time!"
Of course now every time the regular cat-helpers drop by for anything, 
Molly assumes it must be dinner time, and whines accordingly.)

Thanks in advance for any references...

	MKV

re .1

Have you tried calling your vet for a referral?  The last time we needed to 
help a friend find someone, my vet recommended one of their former techs who 
had started up her own pet sitting business.  She was willing to come in twice 
a day, clean litter, feed and medicate if needed.  It worked out well, but 
she's in the South Bay -- much too far away from you.

				SQ

Great idea - thanks!

	MKV

    A friend just asked me to enter a note to see if anyone knows of a
    sitter service she can use for her two kitties.  She will be away from
    March 30 through April 5 and needs someone reliable to come in.  She
    lives in Maynard, MA.  I know there are many pet sitting services
    around, but I don't know what's in the Maynard area.
    
    Thanks,
    
    Donna
    

    
    	Hi - see 28.57
    
    

    Could someone recommend a cat sitter in the Mont Vernon, NH area?
    
    Thanks in advance!
    
    ng

    Could someone recommend a pet sitter in the Rutland MA area?
    Thanks!
    
    Deb

Brian Gleason
dtn : 223-4108
USDEV::BGLEASON


	I am looking for a short term place for myself and 
	13 year old son until my divorce is settled.
	Any housesitting in the Littleton , Ma. area
	would be great. My son goes to daycamp , so 
	would only be home while I am home. I would
	do the lawn , feed the cat or whatever was
	needed while you were away on vacation.
	I am currently housesitting for people that
	have 1 dog , 1 cat and 5 birds.

Regards ,

Brian

    Anyone recommend a good pet sitter for cats
    in the Waltham area?
    
    Thanks,
    George

    What part of Waltham do you live in? If you are near lakeview, I  might
    be able to help you out.
    
    Deb

Fly me out and I'll cat sit :-) 

I just did 4 star playing and fussing cat sitting weekend and 
got my first "complaint" - I'd sat too well - Mackingtosh 
didn't want to know his Mum and wasn't in the slightest 
bothered she'd been away this time I stayed with him.   
I even got an overnight cuddle beside me on the bed this 
time not on his little rug-ette too :-) just got to work 
up to him coming down the bed with me and that's his limit
of cuddlesomeness :-)   Then again I freaked him out by miauwing 
at him, my girls are used to us all chatting in cat, Tosh
however only expects human talk and nearly dropped his 
tail n whiskers in shock when I miauwed at him :-) 

 

    Wish I could fly you out to sit with my 7, the patio cats and the
    feral colony while I'm gone.  I've got a few shorts visits out of
    town coming up in April and I'm still trying to figure out who to
    talk into feeding the ferals while I'm gone.  If it was going to 
    be for just one day I'd load them up with extra food the night 
    before I leave.  But, it's going to be 2-3 days and I'm not sure
    what to do.  I guess I need to find a 4 star person locally.
    
    Jan

    Does anyone know where I can get a "squeeze side" cat cage/trap in
    the San Jose, CA area.  Is there someplace that rents them?  I need 
    to start trapping the feral colony cats for spay/neuter and all the 
    documents I've read suggest a trap where the sides can squeeze in 
    and confine the movement of the cat in the trap so the vet can 
    administer vaccinations or whatever without actually having to 
    handle the cat.
    
    Jan

    I was asked to enter a note to find out if anyone knows of groomers in
    the Leominster/Fitchburg/Lunenburg area.  This person has a Himalayan
    and a Persian and used to have them groomed.  It seems that some of the
    groomers have closed their businesses and she can't seem to find
    anyone.  If you know of anyone, she would appreciate it a lot.
    
    Thanks
    
    Donna
    

    Try Central Animal Hospital. I believe that Linda does grooming.
    
    Holly
    

    Hi Holly,
    
    She takes the cats to Central and they gave her the name of a groomer. 
    She called but found out that she wasn't in the business any more.
    
    Donna