Today we’d like to introduce you to Janna Roberts
Hi Janna, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started pet sitting in 2019 while in graduate school studying to become an occupational therapist. It was the casual and flexible part time job I needed during this time in my life, and I worked through other companies to provide pet sitting services. This gave me a great foundation to really understand what people are looking for with pet care and what I uniquely bring to the space. Stepping out on my own helped me to deeply embrace the magic I experience with animals and shape my services to align with my own values, timelines, and strengths.
Reflecting on the journey so far, I am so thankful to have followed my gut with taking Jannanimals seriously – it has brought a ton of joy into my life, and I am honored to give love back to the amazing pets that are working overtime to get us through some rather difficult times.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There have been some stumbling blocks along the way, which is just a natural byproduct of learning how to do something well. I’ve had to navigate the sensitive and the unexpected, learn how to set boundaries and be okay with saying “no,” get clear on what I do and do not offer, and practice providing education in an accessible way (and yes – I have been bitten once or twice).
Because I have taken this journey slowly and with a lot of intention, the struggles have been minimal. For many years I have considered this a side job – something supplemental (and let’s be honest – super fun) to my primary job as an occupational therapist (OT) or as a federal employee. If nothing else, I am adaptable, and with recent changes I am looking at current reality as an opportunity to go all-in on my gifts and make Jannanimals my full-time work. Taking a chance and going 100% in on something self-created, with no certainty of success, feels kind of scary – but exciting! I’m ready to fully believe in myself and what I offer, even without the safety net a 9-5 provides.
As you know, we’re big fans of Jannanimals Pet Sitting. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I offer in-home pet sitting services in the San Antonio area. I have recently expanded to provide overnight care for families with the most Velcro of pets (IYKYK)! I am most proud of my ability to connect with other animal lovers and earn their trust by loving their fur children as if they were my own. This comes very naturally to me. I see animals as full, amazing beings with their own unique drives, histories, and personalities. I strive to uphold the autonomy and comfort of all animals and work from a place of mutual respect and care. This is just who I am as a person, but it has also made my role as a pet sitter very successful.
I often find it difficult to put into words exactly what “I do.” Many think pet sitting is an exceptionally easy job that anyone could do because the tasks of putting on a leash, filling food bowls, and giving treats is really quite easy! However, the ability to step into someone’s home with a presence that communicates safety, trust, and compassion is something that I pride myself on. This ability takes ongoing work, particularly behind the scenes, in the work I do on myself to be what I want to see in the world. I think “what I do” is more easily experienced versus put into words – a felt sense. Often times, people have to look no further than their own pet’s response to me.
The most common feedback I receive is the “peace of mind” my clients have – knowing that their homes, possessions, and pets are all “in good hands.” They also really seem to love my photos of their pets! It’s like a hug from home while they are away. I recently realized that it is pet care that people request when they make plans to travel, but it is the integrity, clear communication, and sound judgment that comes with my pet services that makes them repeat clients.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I have had too many amazing supporters and cheerleaders to name – the most exceptional of all are the clients that I have had since the very beginning. I am truly grateful for their trust and love for Jannanimals. It has been an honor to be a part of their families and all the ways families change, from the grief that comes with rainbow crossings to the excitement of new arrivals to the family (fur children or otherwise). It really is is such a privilege.
I want to connect with someone that can provide business mentorship as I look to expand Jannanimals to a full-time service in San Antonio and even explore travel pet sitting. I am open to receiving support and guidance from other serviced-minded entrepreneurs so that I can enhance my business processes to serve more families and employ others with a similar passion for service to others.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jannanimals.pets/
- Other: https://tally.so/r/3xYZ2k
