Yes, it’s April Fools Day, but no foolishness here today. Just cats.

But before getting to today’s feline foto gallery, I want to address a problem all animal people face–what to do when you travel. That leads me to a serious plug for our new cat sitter, who happens to be looking for additional clients. She comes with our highest recommendation.

Here’s the tale. In Kaaawa, we relied on a friend in the neighborhood to take care of our cats. But when we moved into town last year, that was no longer viable, and we were frantic to find a solution. Obviously, you really don’t want to let just anyone into your house while you’re gone. And we have the special problem of two diabetic cats who need twice daily insulin shots.

So as we moved, we asked our vet for advice. She shared a secret, letting us know that one of her vet techs also does pet care on the side. And she lives in Kapahulu, I believe, not too far from our new house over in Kahala. So we contacted her and arranged to meet.

What a delight. She’s an experienced vet tech, and recently retired from her job at VCA. It turns out that Duke remembered her from his days as a boarder at VCA. And she has a manner that puts the cats at ease. And that’s important.

At one time, we had to board the diabetics at the vet, and then have someone care for the other cats at home. A double expense, which definitely cut down on our ability to travel. Then we were fortunate to find friends in the neighborhood who would come in and take care of the cats, including the insulin shots. The only problem is that Duke would hide when they came into the house. The solution was to set up a portable crate in the living room, where poor Duke was confined while we were gone. Not great for him, but it made sure he was around to get his shots.

Fast forward to our new house and new cat sitter. She comes twice a day, morning and evening. She feeds the cats, does the insulin shots, cleans the cat boxes, and checks the house to make sure all is in order. And as a bonus, she brings toys and spends a little tine playing with all the cats. She’s covered the home front while we’ve been on several trips, and has done an excellent job.

She is wonderful, and reliable. If you want regular updates, she’ll send photos and notes while you’re gone.

And she’ll care for your dogs, or other small pets, just as carefully.

So if you’re looking for a reliable pet sitter to give quality care to your animals so that you’re free to travel, email me and I’ll put you in touch. I know she does jobs in east Honolulu, but if you live elsewhere in town, you can always check to see if she’s available.

–> And before you leave today, click here to see all of our Friday Felines!