By Ofelia Saenz, Staff Writer
From fins to fur, Rich Anderson, owner of Critter Care Pet Sitting Services and More, treats his clients’ pets the way he treats his own–like part of the family.
“They’re like kids to me,” Anderson said. “I realize that [my clients’] pets are one of the most important things to them, so I try to give them the same loving care that I give my own pets.”
Critter Care’s services include dog-walking, pet taxi to and from the veterinarian or groomer, as well as house checks and overnight stays. Anderson also offers personal shopper services for those with or without pets.
Having come to the business “by accident,” Anderson initially got a taste of pet sitting when a friend asked for his help. After one referral led to another, the business began to flourish of its own accord.
“I’ve always loved being around animals, I’ve always had animals,” Anderson said. “I thought, ‘I can do this.'”
Since then, he’s dedicated himself to the profession, first working a year for a friend with a pet-sitting business in Redondo Beach, then starting his own business, Critter Sitters, at the beginning of this year.
Anderson’s business is licensed, bonded and insured, and he is a member of Pet Sitters International, an organization committed to educating professional pet sitters and promoting, supporting and recognizing excellence in pet sitting. PSI offers such helpful classes as pet first-aid.
“They offer all kinds of things that improve the rapport between the pet sitter and the client,” he said. “It’s a great organization.”
Anderson says he believes the services he offers help keep pets safe, healthy and happy. He recalls having to take his own dog to a kennel once and the animal was returned to him with “kennel cough.” Anderson stresses the importance of keeping pets in familiar surroundings to avoid a variety of problems.
“Once you take the [animal] out of the home environment, I think it can be traumatizing–they get into a kennel and there are 50 dogs barking. They get no attention; they’re in a cage.”
“It worked great for me,” said Critter Care client Tina Cherry, who entrusts Anderson with the care of her two Australian Labradoodles, Russell, 11 months, and Sydney, 4 months. “He comes and spends time with the dogs and even teaches them [tricks],” she said.
For a complimentary consultation with Critter Care, contact Rich Anderson at (562) 824-3212.
