This is not something I feel comfortable sharing, but it's a very real reason for why I've chosen this profession so it probably should be mentioned here.

Last year, in spring of 2007, I had to leave town for a few weeks, leaving my 3-year-old cat Takoda with a woman whom I thought was trustworthy. That was the last time I ever saw Takoda (or Kodi as we called her). She had been with me since her adoption around 12 weeks of age and was a very sweet, shy cat. The woman entrusted to care for her claims that Takoda bit her (highly out of character) so she felt justified in releasing this wonderful, indoor-only, declawed cat to fend for herself in the streets of Des Moines. I was provided no more information than that and never saw or heard from this woman again. She was not a pet-sitter...just an acquaintance who offered to help out during that time period. But she seemed sincere and I didn't know very many people in town back then, having just moved here a few months prior. The people I did know weren't able to keep a cat for various reasons (mainly their landlords' restrictions or allergies) and it was on such short notice.

It's not something anyone could ever foresee happening to them. My Kodi is missed dearly every day since she's been gone. She was such a sweet, loving girl that never could have hurt anyone. Her name comes from the Sioux language, meaning "friend to all," and we called her that because she had such a gentle spirit.

In Loving Memory ~ Takoda Floyd (December 2003 - last seen on March 11th, 2007)

I do understand the risks and concerns involved with entrusting your pets to someone while you're away and will do everything in my power to ensure that they remain happy, healthy and safe while under my care.