Why I Sit (And Why I Love It)

Because I love animals, I need flexibility, and kennels aren’t for me—or your pets.

Ever wondered how someone ends up pet sitting for a living? Here’s how a lifelong love for animals (and a slightly unconventional artist’s life) led me here—and why I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Like a lot of animal lovers, I grew up dreaming of becoming a vet. But once I realised the job came with tough decisions and heartbreaking goodbyes, I knew I needed a different path—one where I could give animals all my love, minus the heartbreak.

So I got creative. Over the years, I’ve found plenty of ways to stay close to animals:

• Volunteering with elephants in Thailand (yep, it was just as magical as it sounds)

  
  

• Living on a hobby farm in England while studying online

  
  

• House and pet sitting for friends, then friends of friends, then a growing list of lovely strangers who quickly became regulars

Me kissing an elephant... that ear slapped me 2 seconds after this photo haha!

What started as a way to fund my travel adventures—like that Thailand trip or my UK farm stint—turned into something I genuinely love. Now, with 13+ years of experience under my belt and animal first aid certification in my back pocket, I’m proud to offer a professional, caring service that fits my life (and gives your pets the best).

But wait—Hannah, that still doesn’t explain why you live out of a bag all year round when you’re not “on holiday.”

You’re right. There’s more to the story—and yes, the plot does thicken.

I’m also a house sitter because I’m a full-time artist. Comedy, acting, writing, visual art—you name it, I’m in it. And while it’s endlessly fulfilling, it’s not exactly your classic 9-to-5. I need the flexibility to take gigs, write new work, and chase the creative spark when it strikes. (Plus, animal cuddles are a lovely cure for writer’s block—and shifting spaces is even better, so house sitting fits me like a glove.)

Me writing my last show with the two 'helpers' I was looking after at the time.. no, I wasn't writing a homage to 'Cats' the musical :P

Being an artist also means I can’t have pets of my own—at least, not yet. I wouldn’t kennel them (I’d be looking to book someone like… well, me), and I’m away too often to give them the life they deserve. So pet sitting? It’s the dream. I get to love your pets like they’re my own, without disrupting their routines or comfort.

So when you book me, you're not just getting someone to feed the fish and fluff the pillows. You’re supporting a working creative who’s chosen this path on purpose. Someone who brings care, humour, and genuine love to every sit—because this isn’t a side hustle, it’s a way of life.

Myself and 'Zoe' having one of our loving nose-to-nose moments

✨ I should mention — if you don’t have pets, no problem!

I of course offer house-only sits—perfect if you just need someone to keep things humming along while you’re away. Think: plants watered, bins out, letters collected, lights on, energy flowing. A calm, lived-in home for peace of mind.

And hey, who’s to say your house doesn’t give you the same heartwarming welcome as a pet? I once did a sit where my main job was caring for their beloved Olympic-sized pool—named Gary. Yes, Gary. He sparkled.

Whether I’m caring for your cats, your golden retriever, or just making sure the sourdough starter doesn’t die while you’re overseas… I bring the same heart, responsibility, and respect into every sit. If you'd like to know exactly what you get when you book with me down to the tiny detail, check out the 'What You Actually Get When You Book Sits And Giggles' article here!

Thanks for being part of my story—and for letting me be part of yours.

Thats all for now! Thanks for reading,

Hannah 😇