New local business offers 'purrfect' alternative to catteries

Thursday 05 September 2024

A local animal lover has launched a new cat sitting business which offers an alternative to traditional catteries, and hopes to ensure that furry friends remain comfortable and at ease while their owners are away from home.

William Hastie launched 'Purrfect Cat Sitting' after receiving "numerous requests" from family, friends and colleagues to look after their cats while they were away.

Mr Hastie's passion for animals started in his childhood home where he grew up surrounded by pets.

"Caring for animals became second nature to me"

At one point, there were three cats and three dogs in the house.

Pictured: Local animal lover William Hastie recently launched 'Purrfect Cat Sitting'.

"Caring for animals became second nature to me," he said.

Purrfect Cat Sitting was born after Mr Hastie received positive feedback and compliments on how well he cared for pets belonging to his friends and family.

Mr Hastie said: "I have been working in the finance industry for the last 15 years and currently work full-time in compliance for a bank.

"I love my work and have a great team of colleagues who are all supportive of my new venture.

"Purrfect Cat Sitting is something I want to do to fulfil my own passion outside of work, and in a way, I feel like I am giving something back.

"By providing a reliable and loving service for pet owners, I am not only helping them but ensuring that their pets are well cared for and happy."

"I really miss having a pet at home"

He added: "This brings me immense satisfaction and a sense of purpose beyond my professional career.

"I have structured my schedule to ensure I have ample time outside of work to dedicate caring for the cats, so they receive the attention and care they deserve."

Mr Hastie sadly doesn't have any pets of his own in Jersey, due to his accommodation not allowing them – a problem for many islanders. 

He said: "I really miss having a pet at home; to me, it just doesn't feel like home without one.

"Instead, I live my pet life through my friends' and clients' furry friends.

"When I can have a pet, I will definitely look to adopt a rescue from the JSPCA."

"I understand how important peace of mind is for pet owners"

The services offered by Purrfect Cat Sitting is tailored and devoted each cat's individual needs. Mr Hastie will only support two or three clients at a time so that he can continue to maintain a high standard of care.

He said: "My primary goal is to ensure that people's furry friends are happy, comfortable, and well taken care of, treating them as if they were my own."

"I understand how important peace of mind is for pet owners, especially when they are away.

"That's why I provide regular updates and photos, so they can be assured that their pets are in good hands."

Mr Hastie explained the importance of support local pet sitters in Jersey.

"When you choose a local pet sitter, you're getting someone who genuinely cares about your pets and will give them the best care possible," he said.

"Plus, it helps people like me who are passionate about what they do."

Purrfect Cat Sitting can be found on Facebook under 'Purrfect Cat Sitting' and on Instagram as @purrfectcatsitting_jsy.