Today we’d like to introduce you to Anita Jones.
Hi Anita, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My love for animals started long before I ever dreamed of owning a business. Years ago, I worked at Funk Animal Hospital as a veterinary tech assistant. My job was to care for the pets’ everyday needs — cleaning cages and kennels, making sure every animal had fresh food and water, taking dogs outside for exercise and potty breaks, and giving baths or light grooming when needed. I also helped the veterinary technicians by holding pets during vaccines, nail trims, and other procedures.
I loved every minute of it. Each day brought new faces — wagging tails, gentle purrs, and the rewarding feeling of helping animals feel safe and loved. But one part of the job always tugged at my heart: the pets who were boarded at the clinic. They were well cared for, but most spent their time in kennels, waiting for someone to come visit or take them out for a few minutes of fresh air. I often wished they could have more attention, more love, and a home-like environment while their families were away.
Of course, I understand why some pets need to stay at a veterinary hospital — some have medical needs or high anxiety that require professional care. But I also believe that most animals need more personal attention, affection, and comfort when their loved ones are gone.
Eventually, I left the animal hospital for personal reasons, but my love for caring for animals never left me. Years later, I got married and became a mom to two wonderful boys with special needs. I stayed home with them while they were young, but when the time came for me to return to work, I knew I wanted to do something meaningful — something that allowed me to be home for my boys and still follow my passion for animals.
I’ve always dreamed of owning my own business, and one day it all clicked. People have daycare centers for their children and trusted places to care for them while they’re away — why shouldn’t pets have the same? I’ve always thought of my pets as my “fur babies.” Growing up, my family always had animals — dogs, cats, fish, and even birds — and they were always part of the family.
Then one day in May 2017, I saw a post on Nextdoor from someone looking for pet care in their home. I couldn’t stay overnight because of my kids, but I could visit and care for their dogs during the day. They agreed, and soon another person reached out after hearing about me. That’s how Neeter’s Pet Sitting — named after my nickname — was born.
When I started my business, I knew exactly what I wanted it to stand for: excellent care, great customer service, and lots of love for every animal I meet. I began boarding dogs in my home, offering a warm, family environment where they could play, relax, and be treated like one of my own. For a while, I also tried boarding cats — but after ending up with five of my own when owners couldn’t take theirs back, I decided to focus on dogs!
As my business grew, I added Drop-In Visits, where I go to clients’ homes to care for pets who are most comfortable in their own environment. This is especially helpful for pets who have anxiety, medical needs, or simply prefer to stay home. I’ve also done some doggy daycare, giving dogs a chance to socialize and have fun during the day.
Over the years, Neeter’s Pet Sitting has continued to grow through word of mouth and trust. I’ve received wonderful reviews — including a 5-star rating when Facebook still used star reviews — and built lasting relationships with my clients. Many of them have become more like family, and their pets truly feel like my own.
I’ve had the joy of caring for dogs, cats, horses, chickens, and even ducks — each one unique and special in their own way. The hardest part of my job is when a pet passes away. It never gets easier. I cry with their families and feel their loss deeply, but even through the sadness, I’m reminded of how much love and joy these animals bring into our lives.
Every day, I feel grateful to do what I love — caring for animals and helping pet parents feel at ease knowing their furry (or feathered!) family members are in good hands.
My motto has remained the same since day one:
“Care you can count on.”
Because that’s what every pet deserves — dependable, loving care from the heart.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Over the years, there have certainly been challenges — just like with any business. I’ve made mistakes along the way, but each one has taught me something valuable. Running a business feels a lot like being in a relationship: you have to love it, nurture it, and give it your all if you want it to grow and thrive. It takes hard work, patience, and heart — but it’s all worth it when I see the happy faces (and wagging tails!) of the pets I care for.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At Neeter’s Pet Sitting, I provide loving, reliable care for pets when their families can’t be there. I specialize in home-style dog boarding, drop-in visits, and doggy daycare. My goal is to make every pet feel safe, comfortable, and loved — just like they would at home. Whether a pet stays with me or I visit them in their own environment, I tailor their care to fit their individual needs and personalities.
Over the years, I’ve cared for a wide variety of animals — dogs, cats, horses, chickens, and even ducks! Each one is special in their own way, and I treat them all like family. I’m known for giving every animal plenty of attention, affection, and compassion, and for going above and beyond to ensure both pets and their owners feel completely at ease.
What truly sets me apart is the home environment I offer and the personal connection I build with every pet and their family. I’m not a large boarding facility with rows of kennels — I’m a small, home-based caregiver who provides individualized, one-on-one attention. The pets in my care receive freedom, love, and comfort in a calm, family setting.
Because I run my business from home, I can dedicate more time and affection to each animal. I make sure they enjoy playtime, cuddles, and familiar routines that help them feel secure while their families are away.
I am insured, bonded, Pet Sitter Certified, First Aid/CPR Certified, Fear Free trained, and BBB accredited — giving families peace of mind knowing their pets are in safe, professional hands. I’m always continuing my education to provide the best possible care and love for every pet I care for.
What makes Neeter’s Pet Sitting truly special is the heart behind it.
This isn’t just a business to me — it’s my passion. I pour my heart into every visit, every cuddle, and every moment I spend with these animals.
What’s next?
My plans for the future are to continue growing Neeter’s Pet Sitting while keeping the same personal, loving touch that my clients and their pets have come to know. I don’t ever want to lose that one-on-one connection — that’s what makes my business special.
Mostly, I’m looking forward to continuing what I love most — caring for pets, meeting wonderful new clients, and being there for the families who have trusted me for years. Every pet I care for becomes part of my extended family, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.
Pricing:
- Boarding starting at $40.00
- Drop-in visits starting at 35.00
- Doggy Daycare starting at $25.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.neeterspetsitting.com
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NeetersPetSitting
- Other: https://www.bbb.org/us/mn/bethel/profile/pet-sitting/neeters-pet-sitting-llc-0704-1000076940
