Leisa, cat-sitter, pet owner and part of the team

If you have had the pleasure of using our cat sitting services you may have already met our regular cat-sitter Leisa. A friend and trusted companion for over 35 years, Leisa is a great addition to The Friendly Pet Nurse team. So here is a bit more about her, her experiences and her love of animals in a quick Q&A.

Q. What do you love about being a cat-sitter?

A. I enjoy meeting the timid cats and gradually earning their trust. Cats can be so aloof, cautious and independent, Then when they come to me for a play or some fuss & love it’s so rewarding. They remember me when I visit again I have great satisfaction at the end of the day knowing that everyone is content and happy. I feel so privileged working alongside Zoe. I enjoy every day and love meeting the cats.

Q. Leisa, what pets do you own?

A. I have always had pets; dogs, cats and horses but currently just have one dog and two cold-water fish tanks at home, I find fish so peaceful & relaxing to watch. My dog is an 8-month-old tan long-haired lurcher, greyhound x Bedlington terrier. She is a great walking companion and loves exploring, she is always in the garden with me, usually being a typical mischievous Lurcher, sneaking off with things she shouldn’t have, she certainly keeps me on my toes! My daughter also has a pet rat, so the house is never that quiet.

Q. Tell us about your wildlife garden

A. My two ponds at home are dedicated to wildlife, another passion of mine. I love to watch the frogs, newts and dragonflies. The frog chorus in the evenings is wonderful.
I also enjoy the birds in the garden, I like to watch them on the feeders. I have lots of sparrows nesting within the roof of my house.
The feeders also attract hedgehogs who I feed and often nest under my shed, when Mother hedgehog brings the hoglet’s out to explore it’s a wonderful sight.

Q. What other animal experience do you have?

A. In the past I have had a variety of roles. I have cared for the animals at a children’s farm nursery school including chickens, rabbits, Guinea pigs and a pig! When I was at school my work experience was at Tilgate nature centre and I worked at Gatwick Zoo (who can remember that?!) which had otters and monkeys.

Q. What would be your ideal holiday destination?

A. My holiday destinations have to be dog friendly and are always UK based. Cornwall is my favourite destination along with Exmoor and the New Forest. I’ve had some amazing holidays exploring the countryside with my favourite canine companions.