Pattie deserves every star and more for watching our cat and rabbit.
First, she radiates kindness. You know she's an animal person and she completely understands your love for your furry-baby-pet. We did a walkthrough of the home, while I pointed out key areas and favorite kitty-hiding places. My pets were immediately drawn to her, wanting to sniff her, show off, and garner attention/cuddles.
Secondly, and most importantly, she is super careful and cautious. She comes with paperwork for you, both informational (with copies of her business license/insurance and references) and personal (you complete a detailed questionnaire about your pets). She doesn't wear advertisements on her person or vehicle, so nobody will know you have a professional sitter coming to your home every day. Your key is kept separate from your questionnaire, which means it can't be paired with your address if the items are lost.
Pattie updated me every single day with photographs and a small story of what she and my pets did that day. I considered her prices quite fair ($20/day to tend to the cat/rabbit once a day). She helped me feel at ease while I was away and that in itself is priceless.