Part of the Family: Your Pet's Peace of Mind, Meet Lisa Clark

Over the years, the services have expanded beyond basic pet sitting to specialised care for different types of pets, including those with medical needs and looking after lifestyle blocks and small farms. We chatted with Lisa about the busy upcoming season and her advice for pet owners looking to travel away. 

What inspired you to start a pet-sitting business?
The inspiration to start Town and Country Homesit came from a deep love for animals and a desire to provide pet owners with peace of mind for their beloved fur babies when they needed to travel. When I came home from my OE in London in 2000, there were no similar offerings in New Zealand, so it seemed like the perfect solution for pet owners who didn’t want to use traditional kennels and catteries for their pets. 

How do you prepare your team and services for the holiday rush to ensure pets get the best possible care?
Preparation for the holiday rush starts well in advance. I finalise the sitters' availability and ensure there are enough for every request. I make sure each sitter is matched to their strengths and preferences, understands each homeowner’s specific needs, and is available for the duration of the homesit. If the sitters are new to Town and Country Homesit, they will all be thoroughly screened, police and reference checked. I have an online scheduling system that allows me to accommodate as many clients as possible while maintaining high standards of care. Additionally, I encourage open communication between pet owners and sitters to tailor services based on each pet's requirements.

What makes your business stand out from other pet-sitting services, particularly when many families seek help during the holidays?
What sets Town and Country Homesit apart is our commitment to personalised care. I meet all clients at their homes first and make sure that I have a sitter that will be suitable for their needs. Our sitters are all animal lovers who treat every pet like their own. I also offer flexible services, including last-minute bookings, and ensure that the team can handle various pet needs, which is crucial during busy holidays. My public liability insurance covers my clients, and they each have an individual online portal to make the process very simple.

Can you share a memorable story or challenge from a past holiday season?
One memorable challenge was during a particularly busy holiday season when a sudden storm hit the country, causing travel disruptions for many. Several clients found themselves stranded, and we had to adapt our schedule to accommodate their extended stays quickly. The team worked tirelessly to ensure every pet was well cared for, and the gratitude from our clients reinforced the importance of flexibility, which often occurs when travel is involved.

What advice would you give to pet owners seeking a sitter for the holidays, and how can they best prepare their pets for a smooth experience?
I advise pet owners to start looking for a homesitter as early as possible as they are always at a premium over the school holiday periods. When meeting potential sitters, it's important to discuss your pet's routine, preferences, and any special needs. Creating a detailed care plan can also provide peace of mind for both the owner and the sitter and this can be done on our online portal.

For more information 
Town & Country Homesit Christchurch
Lisa Clark
021 547 262
lisa@townandcountryhomesit.co.nz
https://townandcountryhomesit.co.nz/