Meet The Sitters
Alex
Alex is a dedicated and compassionate sitter with a diverse background in animal care and an unwavering love for both domestic and exotic animals. Her extensive experience spans from working in zoo settings to a veterinary environment, where she provided care for a wide range of creatures, from non-human primates to common household companions. Alex’s commitment to animal welfare is evident in every aspect of her work, and her unique blend of skills and experiences makes her an exceptional choice for anyone seeking a knowledgeable and caring sitter.
Alex's journey with animals began on her grandparents’ farm, where she developed a deep bond with livestock, including her favorite cow, Sir Loin, and raised a variety of animals such as ducks, chickens, and her beloved ferret, Johnny Rico Suave. This early exposure to animal care set the stage for a lifetime of dedication.
She has since worked at Wildlife World Zoo and The Phoenix Zoo, where she cared for primates, small mammals, and various kinds of animal ambassadors. Her animal care experiences have included everything from administering medications and performing nail trimming and teeth brushing to teaching a cat to do a somersault and an orangutan to voluntarily submit to a blood draw. In addition to her zoo experience, Alex has worked in veterinary settings, where she supported veterinary clients with their animals with their sitting needs. Her ability to handle a range of outpatient medical tasks, combined with her patience and understanding, ensures that she can provide exceptional care to animals with diverse requirements.
Alex’s love for animals is matched by her dedication to creating a safe and comfortable environment for them. She has a particular fondness for cats, admiring their unique personalities and the rewarding bond that comes from earning their trust. Her own two cats—Mau’dib and TarantulaSquid—are a testament to her deep affection for feline companions, and she’s transformed her home into a feline obstacle course to keep them entertained and happy. Her experiences with exotic animals, especially lemurs, have only deepened her appreciation for the diverse ways animals express themselves.
Alex’s outdoor hobbies, such as hiking, camping, and kayaking reflect her active lifestyle and her love for nature. When she’s not exploring the great outdoors or baking her renowned cakes, she enjoys reading scientific articles, sci-fi novels, and listening to audiobooks with enhanced sound effects.
Alex’s approach to sitting is rooted in empathy, safety, and a genuine desire to connect with animals on their terms. She understands how unsettling it can be for animals to be left alone with a new person and is committed to helping them feel secure and loved. Her intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and commitment to kindness guide her interactions with animals and their human families.
With Alex as your sitter, you can rest assured that your beloved animal companions will receive the utmost care and affection. Her extensive background, compassionate nature, and dedication to creating a positive experience for animals and their families make her an exceptional choice for anyone seeking a caring and capable sitter.
Amy
With more than 20 years of personal experience with sitting for animals of friends and relatives, as well as five years professionally through various channels, Amy is a genuine caretaker with an Associate’s degree in psychology. Her degree enabled her to work with seniors doing hospice and Alzheimer’s care, as well as with children as an ABA therapist for kids with autism and Down’s syndrome. Additionally, she spent five years as an elementary school volunteer.
She has a teenage son and a nephew now in his 20s that she raised for a number of years, and prides herself on being a good mom who is reliable, personable, empathetic, and a good listener who treats all she meets with equal respect. She enjoys hanging out with family, watching movies, swimming, and Amy barbecuing.
Amy has a particular affinity for dogs (she says “love seems like an understatement”), although she of course takes care of a wide variety of animals, including (so far!) dogs, cats, birds, fish, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and turtles – but she does prefer to avoid spending time with mice.
The animals in her personal family, dating back to when Amy was 11 years old, once included her first dog, a Dalmatian named Apollo – who she calls “the BEST dog!”, and rescued former dogs, Bailey & Callie. She shares custody of rescued dogs Brucey & Penny and shares her home full-time with rescued dogs Piper, Baxter, and Dixie. She believes in animal rescue and would someday love to open an animal rescue of her own.
To stay current with her areas of interest, Amy reads animal-related articles and watches animal-related television programming; she additionally continues to read materials related to autism and Alzheimer’s. She is a strong believer in conducting business in an organized, courteous, and professional manner, and brings a calm energy into her encounters with the animals in her care.
Cassie
Meet Cassie, your reliable and punctual sitter who has a true passion for animals. Currently pursuing a business major at Mesa Community College, Cassie has mastered the art of balancing her studies and work responsibilities. She possesses excellent communication skills, which aid her in effectively caring for both animals and their people.
With her certification in CPR for humans, dogs, and cats, Cassie ensures the safety and well-being of the animals under her care. While she particularly adores dogs and is adept at handling large and energetic breeds, she is also open to learning about caring for more exotic animals. Although reptilian or invertebrate creatures might make her slightly nervous, her willingness to expand her knowledge demonstrates her commitment to providing the best care possible.
Prior to joining our team, Cassie gained valuable experience by sitting for friends and family. Her exceptional service garnered referrals, attesting to her reliability and trustworthiness. Additionally, she has a volunteer heart and spirit, having actively participated in pet adoption events and also various community service activities during her high school years.
Cassie is also a part-time teacher at a local baking school, where she imparts her knowledge and expertise to aspiring bakers. Her dedication to her craft is evident as she not only teaches, but also sells her own delectable baked goods from home, and she enjoys continuing to learn about the craft of pastry-making.
In her personal life, Cassie enjoys playing the piano and creating music, allowing her creative side to flourish. She grew up with a Shih Tzu named Cookie and a Pitbull mix named Coco, which instilled in her a profound love for dogs and honed her caregiving skills. Presently, she cherishes Luna, her self-described “super-duper cute” Pitbull mix, walking her daily – except when her family pitches in to take care of Luna during those times Cassie needs to focus on her clients’ animals.
Cassie's personal values are grounded in loyalty, kindness, and honesty, which she wholeheartedly extends to both human and non-human animals. She is a self-motivated individual who excels in her work, studies, and personal life. Attention to detail is paramount to Cassie, and she demonstrates her love through attentive and dedicated service.
With Cassie as your sitter, you can trust that your beloved pets will receive exceptional care in a professional, organized, and compassionate manner. She is committed to creating a nurturing and safe environment for your furry friends, ensuring their happiness and well-being while you're away.
Cece
Experienced and compassionate, Cece has dedicated her career to the welfare of animals. With a journey that began at age 15, she has worked in animal clinics and shelters as a veterinary technician, gaining invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience. Her love for animals knows no bounds, with a particular affinity for cats, reptiles, and horses.
Cece's passion for animal care extends beyond her professional endeavors. Her genuine concern for animals often leads her to bring in strays, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment. Walking dogs of any breed and size comes naturally to her, as she is comfortable and confident in handling these beloved companions.
Within shelter settings, Cece worked with adoptable dogs, helping them develop manners and skills to find loving homes. Her ability to read animal body language allows her to create positive interactions based on patience and trust. She firmly believes that such qualities are paramount to fostering harmonious relationships with animals.
Cece has been involved in volunteer work, fundraising for shelters, and dedicating time at a horse ranch. Her experience spans a wide range of animal species, large and small. Throughout her life, Cece has cared for dogs, cats, gerbils, guinea pigs, turtles, rabbits, and even a snake. She currently shares her life with Lola, an elderly dog, and Jeffrey, a cat, both of whom made the journey from her previous home in the Midwest to her current home in Arizona.
Cece enjoys engaging in hobbies in the great outdoors. Camping, exploring mountains, horseback riding, and water activities bring her solace. Her creative side is expressed through photography, cooking, woodworking, and repurposing old furniture.
Efficiency and punctuality are core values for Cece. She approaches her responsibilities with care, dependability, and resourcefulness. Her keen attention to detail ensures that every aspect of her work is executed with precision.
In her interactions with animals, Cece firmly believes in using positive reinforcement techniques. She recognizes the importance of finding the best "currency" for each animal to build relationships and foster trust. She also enjoys educating others on building better relationships with their own animals through positive, compassionate methods.
Cece's passion for the environment and biodiversity concerns drives her to also educate others on these important issues. Her "live-and-let-live" philosophy guides her interactions with the world, promoting harmony and respect for all living beings.
On a personal level, Cece is a loving parent to two nearly grown children. She also shares a close bond with her mother and values her friendships, reflecting her loyalty and commitment to nurturing deep, genuine connections. With her dedication to animal welfare and loyalty, Cece is an outstanding sitter who leaves a positive impact on animals and humans alike.
JC
Justin (aka JC) is an exceptional sitter with a deep love for animals and a talent for capturing their beauty through photography. With a tech-savvy approach and a keen eye for detail, JC excels in documenting precious moments with pets. Communication is one of his strengths, and he enjoys engaging in conversations about subjects that ignite his interest.
While cats hold a special place in JC's heart, he appreciates the unique personalities of all animals. His own talkative and sociable cat has deepened his admiration for feline companions. JC firmly believes that those who claim not to like cats simply haven't had the pleasure of meeting the right one yet. However, his love for animals extends to diverse species, and he finds comfort in their remarkable ability to love unconditionally.
JC's passion for animals started early in life, and he has gained experience in pet sitting for dogs, cats, and smaller animals such as guinea pigs, hamsters, and bunnies. Walking three large dogs simultaneously was a rewarding experience that he thoroughly enjoyed. Animals have been a constant presence in JC's life, and he considers his two cats, Finnick and Bellamy, along with his beloved Golden Retriever, Kylan, as his children. Additionally, his mother's Golden Retriever, Dani, and her lab/beagle mix, Baelfire, hold a special place in his heart.
Volunteering at an animal shelter during his time in Illinois instilled a deep sense of compassion in JC. Although he was young at the time, he and his mother provided attention and affection to the shelter animals, nurturing his future in caring for animals.
During leisure time, JC finds joy in the company of his animal companions, immersing himself in favorite television programs and interactive video games that allow him to shape his own path. He also enjoys reading manga and series books, while educational videos about animal care deepen his knowledge in the field.
Maintaining a calm demeanor and avoiding self-criticism are principles JC lives by. With ambitions of pursuing a PhD in forensic psychiatry and becoming a correctional therapist, he balances his drive with a mindful approach. Kindness, respect, and authenticity are values he upholds, cultivating an environment where people feel comfortable being their true selves. JC's creativity shines through his sketches, drawings, and photography, reflecting his artistic and expressive personality.
JC's friendly and considerate nature, combined with his adventurous spirit, make him a remarkable sitter. His genuine love for animals and dedication to providing exceptional care ensure that pets entrusted to him receive the utmost attention and affection. With JC by their side, clients can have peace of mind, knowing that their beloved companions are in capable and compassionate hands.
Kara
Kara is a dedicated and empathetic pet sitter with a rich background and a passion for building genuine connections with all kinds of animals. Her diverse experiences and personal love for animals make her an exceptional choice for ensuring your furry, scaly, or feathered friends receive top-notch care.
From a young age, Kara has been immersed in the world of animals. While growing up, she was surrounded by a variety of pets, including her cherished Shiba Inu-Chow mix, Chalula, and her loyal Lab-Shepherd mix, Coco. Now, she lovingly cares for Sasha, her playful Labradoodle, and Donut, her affectionate orange domestic shorthair cat. Kara’s experience with these pets has honed her ability to address the unique needs of each animal, from managing anxiety to providing enrichment.
Professionally, Kara’s background is as varied as it is impressive. She has sat for animals for friends and family, caring for a range from kittens and cats to older dogs and fish. Her experience extends to administering medications, light grooming, and even a little bit of animal training. She has handled challenging situations, such as giving medication to sick dogs and ensuring they follow their treatment plans. Kara’s organizational skills, developed through her demanding roles as a music conductor and graduate student, help her manage her animal care tasks efficiently and effectively.
In addition to her work with companion animals, Kara has a wealth of experience in leadership and community service. As a conductor, she leads diverse teams, balancing artistic vision with practical execution. Her volunteer work has included creating crafts for children in hospitals, teaching music, and registering voters. These roles have sharpened her ability to connect with people and manage complex tasks, skills she seamlessly transfers to her sitting duties.
Kara’s fascination with animals goes beyond traditional pets. She is particularly drawn to forming bonds with intelligent and unique animals, such as crows, and embraces the challenge of working with any creature, regardless of their quirks.
Outside of her professional life, Kara enjoys spending time with her family and companion animals. She loves outdoor activities like hiking, crafting, and traveling. Her creative side shines through in her love for painting and cooking, and she takes joy in hosting dinner parties and exploring new cultures through travel.
Kara’s animal care philosophy emphasizes understanding and respect. She believes in listening to animals, recognizing their needs, and ensuring their comfort and happiness. Her approach is centered around making each animal feel safe and valued, adapting her care to their individual preferences.
With her extensive experience, compassionate nature, and commitment to exceptional care, Kara provides a nurturing environment where animals can thrive while their families are away. Her genuine love for animals and dedication to their well-being make her a standout sitter you can trust with your beloved companions.
Kiani
Kiani is compassionate and dedicated, covering drop-in visits in the North Phoenix area around the 85032 zip code. Her passion for helping others is the driving force behind her work, bringing her immense joy in playing with and being around animals while finding deep satisfaction in assisting and supporting their owners.
Although Kiani has a special affinity for dogs, having gained extensive experience with them, she is open to learning and getting to know all types of animals, except for snakes and insects, which she prefers to avoid.
Before joining Crystal the Pet Nanny, her pet-sitting and dog-walking experience was primarily personal, taking care of her family dogs and her grandmother's elderly dog. Her grandmother now has a young and energetic shepherd-husky mix named Snowflake, whom Kiani adores and enjoys spending time with.
While growing up, Kiani formed a strong bond with pit bulls. From her earliest memories of a pit bull companion when she was very young to the one that became part of her life at the age of 10, these dogs hold a special place in her heart. While her grandmother technically owned the third pit bull, Kiani actively participated in raising and caring for the dog, solidifying their close relationship.
In addition to her love for animals, Kiani is currently pursuing her education at Glendale Community College, laying the foundation for her future Bachelor's Degree in forensic science. Her ultimate goal is to become a forensic pathologist and find fulfillment in a career she is passionate about. Building a family and owning a beautiful house are dreams she holds close to her heart, driving her determination to succeed.
Kiani's strong work ethic, determination, and nurturing nature extend beyond her pet-sitting role. She maintains close relationships with her neuro-divergent brother, school-aged nephew, and disabled boyfriend, actively providing care and support to them. Her boyfriend serves as a great source of inspiration, with his resilience, strength, faith, and hope. Kiani is passionate about fighting for equality and advocates for black lives, proudly embracing her own journey as an extraordinary woman of action. Believing in her own abilities, she strives for excellence in everything she does.
In her leisure time, Kiani seeks thrills through activities such as riding all-terrain vehicles and visiting amusement parks. Music plays a significant role in her life, and she enjoys a wide range of genres. Reading is another passion, particularly young adult novels like the “Dork Diaries” series and stories highlighting the unique experiences of young black girls.
Entrusting your beloved animal companions to Kiani's care, you can be confident that they will receive the utmost attention and compassion. With her nurturing personality, determination to succeed, and unwavering commitment to her responsibilities, Kiani will ensure the well-being and happiness of your animal companions.
Lauren
Meet Lauren, a passionate and dedicated animal lover whose profound connection with animals has been a cornerstone of her life since childhood. Lauren’s enthusiasm for animal welfare is matched by her exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, which she believes are the foundation of any successful relationship, whether with people or animals. Her meticulous nature ensures that she is always punctual and that all the details are tended with absolute care.
Lauren’s love for animals is evident in her extensive experience and diverse background. She has volunteered at the Arizona Humane Society and Robinson Ranch, where she cared for a wide range of animals, from cats and dogs to horses and goats. Her internship at OdySea Aquarium further enriched her experience, as she worked closely with African black-footed penguins, sloths, toucans, and more. This role involved preparing and weighing food, providing enrichment, and assisting with animal care and public interactions. Her previous pet-sitting experiences before joining our team include caring for a college friend's cat, a roommate’s pet frog, and a neighbor’s cat, showcasing her ability to handle various animals with ease.
Lauren’s heart belongs to penguins, who she admires for their dedication and resilience. This admiration drives her dream of working with penguins in any capacity. Despite not being able to have pets growing up due to her family's frequent travel and her mother's allergies, Lauren’s bonds with her friend's elderly chocolate Labrador, Max, and her Betta fish during her childhood have left a lasting impact. Her close connections with animals in college and her internship further fueled her passion.
In addition to her love for animals, Lauren enjoys baking, playing video games, reading, and arts and crafts. She is also a fan of anime and horror movies, and she has a unique hobby of cosplaying, where she creates and dons costumes and props of beloved characters, a pastime she shares with her dad.
Lauren is currently pursuing her open-water scuba license through PADI, which aligns with her ambition to work in aquaria. Her dedication to animal care extends to her belief in respecting animals as one would another human, ensuring that every animal receives the care and attention they deserve.
Lauren’s values of empathy, punctuality, and preparedness are integral to her approach to both animal care and everyday life. She is always prepared for emergencies, carries extra supplies, and is known for her ability to connect with others and solve problems effectively. Her commitment to animal welfare, combined with her strong communication skills and personal integrity, makes her an excellent choice for providing compassionate and reliable care for your pets.
Teresa
Teresa is a dedicated sitter with a deep love for all animals. Whether it’s cats, dogs, or any other kind of animal, she believes every creature has their own unique personality, much like people. Having spent much of her life around dogs and cats, she feels comfortable working with any animal, as long as she knows what they need and how their owners want them cared for. Teresa values clear instructions and follows them closely to ensure the best possible care.
As a mother of five children and an animal parent to a Miniature Schnauzer named Yoshi and a Tuxedo Cat named Twix, Teresa understands the importance of trust when it comes to looking after loved ones—whether human or non-human. Just as she would want to feel confident in someone caring for her own family, she is committed to offering that same peace of mind to the families she serves.
Teresa’s sitting experience includes caring for neighbors’ dogs when they’re out of town. She checks in several times a day, especially during the hot summer months, to provide fresh water, food, and companionship. Teresa knows that animals miss their families when they’re away, and she loves spending time with them to offer comfort. She also has experience administering medication to animals, whether that means giving pills hidden in peanut butter or applying eye drops.
Her compassionate and reliable nature has been a constant throughout her life. Raised with the values of keeping promises and following through on commitments, Teresa takes pride in being dependable. If she says she’ll do something, she does it to the best of her ability.
In addition to animal care, Teresa enjoys staying active. She loves playing volleyball, hiking (weather permitting!), and going to the gym. A lover of music, she finds strength and healing through it, and in her spare time, she enjoys watching documentaries, writing poetry, and spending time with her family.
Teresa believes in treating all creatures with love, kindness, and respect. Her philosophy is that everyone deserves happiness, and a smile or a small act of kindness can go a long way. As a sitter, she’s not only committed to providing excellent care but also to giving families peace of mind, knowing their animal family members are in good hands while they’re away.
She looks forward to meeting you and your beloved animals soon!
Tracy
Tracy's journey as a sitter began with about 5 years of professional experience as an independent contractor for another company. During this time, she honed her skills in walking dogs and administering medications, making her a valuable asset to our team.
Her love for animals traces back to her childhood, where she frequently brought home classroom animals, including guinea pigs, a bearded dragon, a rabbit, and a frog. Animals have always brought her immense joy, and this passion continues to drive her dedication to caring for them.
Tracy holds her family in high regard, describing them as a "huge Italian family." Despite their living several states away in Texas, she keeps her extended family close to her heart. Perhaps this deep connection to her family is what fuels her creative side, as she loves expressing herself through cooking and growing food in her fruitful garden.
Honesty, professionalism, punctuality, reliability, and maintaining her integrity are all values dear to Tracy's heart. In times of difficulty, she draws on her sense of humor and calm, positive nature to navigate through challenges. When she commits to a job, she gives her all, leaving no room for anything less than her best effort.
Tracy's free-spirited and open-minded nature aligns perfectly with her love for outdoor and active pursuits. Biking, hiking, kayaking, camping, and paddle boarding are among her favorite outdoor activities. Road trips, especially those that allow her to explore Arizona's diverse landscapes, fill her with inspiration and wonder. Dancing to music, especially during her beloved Zumba sessions, brings her immense joy and energy. When seeking quieter moments, Tracy finds solace in consuming movies, podcasts, and reading material.
While she loves all animals, dogs hold a special place in Tracy's heart. She finds them healing and comforting, and her dog, Lucy, is her cherished companion on adventures and hikes. Their shared love for the outdoors deepens their bond.
Tracy's dedication to the world of animal care extends to her active participation in online discussions and forums. These interactions enrich her knowledge and passion for animal sitting, constantly fueling her desire to learn and grow in the field.
Tracy's extensive experience, love for animals, strong values, and zest for life make her an exceptional sitter. With her caring nature and passion for outdoor activities, she provides a nurturing and adventurous environment for the animals she cares for. As a valued member of our team, Tracy's dedication and positive spirit shine through in every interaction, leaving a lasting impact on the animals she meets.
PLEASE NOTE: All sitters are fully vetted including full background checks for your safety and peace of mind.
Yes, we are insured!
