Pet sitting. While many might hear the term and think of it as a hobby or a job for kids, one innovative woman in Omaha is proving it’s so much more. Midwest Pet Sitter Affiliates, led by Kristin Holzapfel, provides a fresh approach to the business of pet care—a supportive network of independent sitters built on trust, education, and collaboration. Featured on the Spotlight Omaha podcast, Kristin shared insights into her journey, philosophy, and vision for the future of pet care.
From Solo to Network: A Journey of Growth
Kristin’s story began in 2017, when she launched her own pet-sitting business, Pampered Pupperinos and Pals LLC. At that time, Kristin focused her services on dog walking, drop-ins, and overnight care. However, as her client list and reputation grew, so did her overwhelming schedule.
“I needed to create a network of pet sitters I could trust to refer clients to,” Kristin explained. “I wanted to ensure that these clients were receiving the same level of care they’d get from me.”
Thus, Midwest Pet Sitters Affiliates was born. The organization serves as a supportive network of independent pet sitters who operate their own businesses while adhering to shared standards of quality and professionalism.
It’s Not Just Cuddling Dogs
One of the biggest misconceptions about pet sitting, Kristin pointed out, is that it’s all about “cuddling dogs and playing with animals all day.” The truth is, the role requires significant knowledge and adaptability, especially when working with pets with special needs.
Kristin herself specializes in reactive dogs—animals that may require more structure and care due to behavioral challenges or anxiety. “Winning the trust of a reactive animal is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “It takes patience and confidence to handle their triggers and ensure they feel safe.”
Educating Pet Sitters, Empowering Clients
Education is at the heart of Midwest Pet Sitter Affiliates’ mission. Kristin and her team focus on empowering sitters with important skills such as pet CPR, first aid, and behavioral training, while also educating clients on what to expect from professional pet care.
“We advocate for meet-and-greets before taking on any job,” Kristin shared. “This allows sitters to understand the pet’s behavior, triggers, and routines, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone.”
The organization’s commitment to education doesn’t end with pet sitters. Kristin emphasized the importance of collaboration, both among sitters and with other professionals. “We’ve worked with realtors, travel agents, and even insurance agents,” she noted. “Everyone interacts with pet owners in some way. Why not use those connections to create a better experience for clients?”
Changing the Narrative
Despite its growth, the pet-sitting industry still meets misconceptions about its legitimacy as a profession. Kristin is determined to change that.
“While we’re considered a luxury service, we’re also a necessity for people who want to ensure their pets receive the best care possible,” she said. “This isn’t just a hobby. It’s a career that requires dedication, skill, and continuous learning.”
The Future of Pet Care
Looking to the future, Kristin’s goals include expanding educational initiatives, mentoring more sitters, and using public speaking to raise awareness about the importance of professional pet care. Her vision is to inspire other regions to adopt collaborative models like Midwest Pet Sitter Affiliates.
“You don’t need to see other pet sitters as competition,” she said. “There’s enough work for everyone. Collaboration helps us provide better care for clients and their pets.”
A Trusted Resource for Pet Owners
For those in Omaha with pets, Midwest Pet Sitters Affiliates has become a go-to resource for trusted, professional pet care. By building a collaborative community of like-minded sitters and prioritizing the needs of both pets and their owners, Kristin Holzapfel is setting a new standard of care for the industry.
As Kristin reflected during the podcast, “Our main goal is to educate, provide care, and build a collaborative, supportive community. When we work together, everyone benefits—especially the pets.”
If you’re looking for reliable pet care, contact Kristin at Midwest Pet Sitters Affiliates. You can rest easy knowing your pet will be in good hands.
