EXCELLENT Based on 26 reviews Posted on Google Nick AddisonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek has looked after our dog for us a couple of times now and he is our go-to person for walking, feeding and company for Scooby. He can always be relied on to arrive at the scheduled times, sending photos, videos and short notes every time which have been a huge comfort while we have been away. Highly recommended
Owner's reply
Thank you Nick for taking the time to write a review about my dog walking services - I appreciate it. Scooby is a truly unique dog with a unique and endearing personality. I'm constantly amazed by how he negotiates life with such joy and enthusiasm and a love of all people and dogs. Then when you take into account that he's deaf - you realise that he truly has a wonderful indomitable spirit and serves as an example to we mere humans as to how to enjoy life in the face of adversity. Oh and I almost forgot to say that I noticed whilst on my walks with him that he has another ability - to make people smile! Who wouldn't love a dog like Scooby!?Posted on Google Maddy MacdonaldTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Theo, our lively cavapoo loves Derek! We have never had a dog walker before and didn't want Theo to be 'just one of many' on walks with multiple dogs. Derek came to meet Theo first at home which was great and helped us feel more confident. He is always very responsive and has helped us out last minute at times. The K9 app works really well for booking and reports on the walks too. Cannot recommend highly enough
Owner's reply
Thank you Maddy for your appreciation of my dog walking service and in particular caring for Theo, your gorgeous Cavapoo. You could say Theo is a great crowd pleaser when I take him for our walks in the Botanical Gardens. It's wonderful to see peoples' faces light up with broad smiles when they see Theo coming towards them - such is his remarkable presence and his joie de vivre - so infectious! I have no doubt that much of his joy stems from the way you and Mike have treated him since you became his proud pet parents! For my part I just adore him and always look forward to our walks together.Posted on Google Grace QuantTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek is so kind and caring and really takes his time with my nervous dog. I would highly recommend his service
Owner's reply
Thank you Grace. I hadn't looked after a Shih-Poo before although I had cared for one of your neighbour's Cavapoos-Theo. Bella was a little bit shy on our first meeting though she quickly responded to my massages everytime I arrived to take her for a walk to the Botanical Gardens. I love that she always seems to know its me entering your home and just lies there on her back waiting for my cuddles. I really look forward to going on walks with her and letting her sniff her way round the Botanical Gardens. The fact that Bella is so loving and affectionate is a tribute to the way you and your partner love and care for her and I am delighted and feel very proud that you have chosen me to look after her.Posted on Google Jennifer HendersonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek has walked both my rescue dogs, the most recent arriving just over a week ago. He's been invaluable in helping my new little one settle in with gentle walkies and kindness - even dealing with house training accidents.
Owner's reply
Thank you Jennifer. Of course I'm delighted Josh loves me especially since the feeling is mutual. Bearing in mind his background it's truly remarkable that Josh can love. Josh personifies the old adage that love conquers all and I feel sure that the love you have given him has enabled Josh to become the adorable and loving Cocker Spaniel he now is. Josh is a joy to walk and always gives me such a warm welcome with his twirls and fetching me his toy - a truly amazing and loving dog.Posted on Google Anne DargueTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek is reliable and trustworthy . Easy to book and pay online. Takes great care of our dog both with cuddles, walks, feeding and toileting. Flexible with timings of visits whether it's a lunch time walk while I'm at work or away for the whole day for a family wedding. Our dog loves his time with Derek and we can relax knowing he's in safe hands. One on one care from Derek since he's been a puppy. Derek takes and shares many great photos and videos so I can see how happy my pooch is while I'm not around. Derek is very experienced - would recommend for any age of dog.
Owner's reply
Thank you so much Anne for trusting me to look after Ridley. I had never met a Miniature Labradoodle before and was excited to meet him. I was absolutely bowled over by his cuter than cute appearance and endearing behaviour. Of course as well as being sooo cute he's a wonderful guard dog. When I open your front door he immediately goes on guard growling and barking until he sees me then suddenly his barking stops and all he wants is love - lots of it! I find it difficult to resist taking lots of pictures and videos of him at home and as we walk through the nearby woods. And of course should we met anyone on our walk they fall in love with Ridley immediately. I always find you a pleasure to deal with and look forward to going on many more walks with the ridiculously handsome Ridley!Posted on Google JacTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 100% reliable. My doodle is visibly excited as soon as Derek arrives. Even if I am at home, my dog happily trots off for his walk with Derek. He’s also a fountain of knowledge and ideas. Would highly recommend.
Owner's reply
Thank you Jacqui. I can't tell you how much I look forward to going on walks with Bolt, your loving and always smiling Goldendoodle. Bolt is a peculiar dog in the nicest possible way. For instance he's the only dog I walk that bears his teeth at me when I arrive to take him out. I quickly realised that unlike other dogs that bear their teeth aggressively Bolt was mimicking me smiling at him because I am always so pleased to see him. Then after smiling at me he promptly lies on his back on your pouffe for his 5 minute massage before we set of on another quest to find people and dogs - such is his insatiable appetite for making new friends. Should a car pull up Bolt is always there waiting to greet the occupants as they get out of the car! Bolt's owner, Jacqui is a joy to deal with and as you'd expect has a great sense of humour just like Bolt!Posted on Google Jan WrightTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service from Derek. We got regular updates and lovely videos of our cat Minnie. Derek is caring and spends time fussing over Minnie who clearly loved it! Highly recommend.
Owner's reply
Thank you Jan for your kind words. Minnie is a really affectionate and beautiful cat and after I've fed and watered her and cleaned her litter I like nothing better than to invite her to lie on my chest and stroke her. Judging by her contented purrs she really appreciates this and I'm pleased that I can bring her some comfort whilst you're on holiday.Posted on Google Erica BradleyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I met Derek whilst out walking my elderly dog & it was obvious he cares a lot about dogs & is very knowledgeable. He has since taken my dog out for walks and is very reliable & trustworthy. He always sends pictures and communicates promptly. Would not hesitate to recommend him. Erica
Owner's reply
Thank you Erica for your appreciation. Tess is a sweet little Puggle and she always gives me such a warm welcome when I arrive at your home to collect her. It's a pleasure to take her for walks.Posted on Google ank mTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek is pleasant,very reliable and also receptive to short notice requests, which is very helpful indeed. Alma,our cocker, really likes him. Thank you, Derek
Owner's reply
Thank you Anka for trusting me to take Alma for walks. It's a real pleasure walking Alma. She is such a sweet natured Cocker Spaniel. And I always look forward to receiving a warm welcome from her when I arrive to take her for her walk.Posted on Google Helen TaylorTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek provides an excellent, caring service and clearly loves animals. My 2 dogs have very different walking styles and one can be dog reactive at times. Derek did an initial visit to meet the dogs and learn all about them, which was very reassuring. I felt very confident that he understood their needs and would be able to manage them in a caring and competent manner. Both dogs were very pleased to see him each morning for their walks and he sent photos and videos showing the great time they were having. I can certainly recommend him to anyone needing help with their pets!
Owner's reply
Thank you Helen for taking the time to review my service. For my part it was a pleasure meeting you and walking your 2 beautiful dogs - Bruin and Oscar and I look forward to seeing them again when you next need my services.Showing our latest reviewsVerified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
If you are looking for professional cat sitting Crosspool cat owners can rely on, I’m Derek Collinson, owner of K9 Time. As a trusted local cat sitter, I am a familiar face around Sandygate Road and the quiet residential streets of this hilltop Sheffield suburb.
I provide in-home cat sitting visits that let your cat stay relaxed in their own familiar surroundings. This personalized cat sitting service is designed to minimize stress while you are away.
Every visit includes feeding, fresh water, litter tray care, playtime, and real-time photo and video updates sent straight to your phone through a free app. My goal is to be the trusted cat sitter you can depend on for every holiday or trip.
With more than 40 years of cat care experience, I understand that cats are creatures of habit. Moving them to a cattery or cat hotel can cause unnecessary stress. That’s why my cat sitting service brings the care to your cat, not the other way around.
If you are looking for a trustworthy cat sitter who offers personal attention and dedicated pet care, K9 Time is the preferred local cat sitter. As a trusted cat sitter, I prioritize your pet’s safety and emotional well-being.
I’m fully insured, DBS checked, and a registered member of NarpsUK. Being among the registered pet sitters in Sheffield means I adhere to high professional standards for every pet sitting booking. I’m also a certified Usui Reiki Master, which helps me bring a calm, gentle energy to every visit. Whether your cat is confident and sociable or shy and nervous, I tailor each visit to suit their personality and routine.
I offer a free 30-minute meet and greet before any booking, so you can see first-hand how I work and discuss your cat’s needs with no obligation.
Why In-Home Cat Care Works Better Than A Cattery
Crosspool is known for its peaceful, leafy streets and family-oriented community. For a local cat, their territory usually includes a familiar garden and a predictable neighbourhood routine. Moving them away from this tranquil S10 setting can be incredibly disruptive.
Less Stress In A Familiar Home Environment
Cats are territorial animals. Their sense of safety comes from familiar scents, sounds, and spaces. Transporting a cat to a cattery or cat boarding facility means removing them from everything they know and placing them alongside unfamiliar cats. Unlike traditional cat boarding, my service prioritises your pet’s comfort by keeping them in their own home.
In-home cat sitting removes that disruption entirely. Your cat stays in their own home, sleeps in their favourite spots, and eats from their own bowls. There’s no car journey or strange smells. For most cats, this is the least stressful option by far. Local cat sitters like myself ensure your pet remains comfortable in their territory while you are away.
How Drop-In Visits Keep Your Cat’s Routine Stable
Cats thrive on consistency. They like to eat at the same time, play at the same time, and rest undisturbed. My drop-in visits are arranged around your cat’s existing schedule, not mine.
I typically visit twice a day, making sure meals happen on time and your cat gets the attention they need at the right moments. This routine-based approach keeps your cat settled and content throughout your time away.
When Home Cat Sitting Suits Shy, Nervous, Or Senior Cats Best
A cattery environment can be particularly tough on shy, nervous, or older cats. The noise and presence of other animals can raise their stress levels significantly. As a certified Usui Reiki Master, I bring a calm, soothing presence into every visit. This is especially helpful for anxious cats who need gentle, patient interaction.
Senior cats with health conditions or mobility issues also benefit from staying in a familiar home environment. There’s no need for them to adjust to a new space. I simply visit them where they feel safest.
Cat Sitting Visit Options And Prices In Crosspool
I offer two visit lengths for cat sitting Crosspool residents can choose from, typically scheduled twice daily. Choosing a professional cat sitting service for your pet is easy with these flexible visit options.
Visit Length | Price Per Visit |
|---|---|
15 minutes | £14 |
30 minutes | £20 |
15-Minute Cat Sitting Visits
A 15-minute visit covers the essentials. I’ll refresh food and water, clean the litter tray, and give your cat some quick attention. This suits confident, independent cats. Many people trying to find a cat sitter in the local area look for local cat sitters who provide these efficient, reliable check-ins.
30-Minute Cat Sitting Visits
A 30-minute visit allows extra time for play, cuddles, and more thorough checks around your home. This is a good choice for cats who enjoy company or need a little more TLC during the day.
Typical Two-Visit Daily Schedule
I usually arrange two visits per day, spaced to match your cat’s feeding and activity patterns. For example, one morning visit and one evening visit keeps your cat’s routine steady and gives you regular updates throughout the day.
If you’d like to discuss visit times or book a free 30-minute meet and greet, give me a call for a friendly, no-obligation chat about your cat’s needs.
What’s Included In A K9 Time Cat Sitting Visit
Feeding, Fresh Water, And Litter Tray Care
Every visit starts with the basics done properly. I’ll prepare your cat’s meal according to your instructions, refresh their water bowl, and clean and replenish the litter tray. If your cat has specific dietary requirements, I follow them to the letter.
Playtime, Cuddles, And Routine-Based Attention
Each cat is different. Some want to chase a feather toy, others prefer a quiet lap cuddle. I match the interaction to your cat’s personality. My 40+ years of cat care experience means I can read the signals and give your cat exactly what they need, whether that’s active play or calm, gentle company.
Photo, Video, And Visit Reports Through The App
You’ll receive photo updates, video clips, and a full visit report after every single visit. These are sent through a free mobile app, so you can see exactly how your cat is doing no matter where you are. It’s the peace of mind that makes all the difference when you’re away.
Practical Home Checks While You’re Away
Regular cat sitting visits also support your home security. My cat sitting service includes collecting post, watering plants, and taking out rubbish as needed.
Having someone come and go at regular times helps keep your property looking lived-in. This is an added layer of reassurance for you while you’re on holiday or away for work.
Why Crosspool Owners Trust K9 Time
40+ Years Of Cat Care Experience With Derek
I’ve been caring for cats for more than 40 years. That experience means I’ve worked with every type of temperament. As a trusted cat sitter, I ensure your pet is in experienced, capable hands.
Crosspool cat owners can feel confident with my professional cat sitting service. Whether you usually look on Cat in a Flat or Rover, I provide a personalised service that platforms cannot always match.
Fully Insured, DBS Checked, And NarpsUK Registered
Trust matters when you’re handing over your house keys and your cat’s wellbeing. I’m fully insured, DBS and police checked, and a registered member of NarpsUK. These credentials aren’t just badges. They’re your assurance that I meet recognised professional standards for pet care in the UK. Finding a trusted cat sitter is essential for any owner. As a trustworthy cat sitter, I ensure your home and pet are always treated with respect.
Usui Reiki Master Support For Calm, Gentle Cat Care
As a certified Usui Reiki Master, I bring a calm, centred energy to every visit. This isn’t something many cat sitters can offer, and it makes a real difference with nervous, anxious, or elderly cats. Cats are incredibly sensitive to the energy around them. A relaxed, unhurried presence helps them feel safe and comfortable during each visit.
Free Meet & Greet Before Any Booking
Before I start providing cat care, I offer a free 30-minute meet & greet with no obligation. This meet & greet is your chance to introduce me to your cat, walk me through their routine, and ask any questions. It’s also my chance to learn your cat’s likes, dislikes, and any quirks so I can provide truly personalised care from day one.
Areas We Cover Around Crosspool, Sheffield
Crosspool And Nearby S10 Areas
Crosspool is a unique community and I understand the layout of the area well, from the busy village centre to the quieter edges near the Rivelin Valley.
Looking for pet care outside of ACrosspool? Check my full Areas We Cover page to see everywhere I travel in Sheffield.
How To Check If Your Address Is Within Range
If you’re not sure whether your address falls within my service area, the simplest way to find out is to get in touch. Call me for a friendly, no-obligation chat and I’ll let you know straight away whether I can help.
Book Your Cat Sitting Crosspool Visits With Derek
If you are looking for a reliable cat sitting service that puts your pet first, booking with K9 Time is simple. I offer a local presence and years of expertise.
How The Meet And Greet Works
Every new booking starts with a free 30-minute meet and greet at your home. I’ll come to you, meet your cat in their own environment, and get to know their personality. This visit is completely obligation-free. It gives us both a chance to make sure everything feels right before we go any further.
Information To Share About Your Cat And Home Routine
During the meet and greet, it helps to share a few key details so I can provide the best possible care:
Your cat’s feeding schedule, food type, and portion sizes
Litter tray location and preferred litter
Any health conditions, medications, or vet details
Your cat’s personality and preferences (playful, shy, cuddly, independent)
House access arrangements and any alarm codes
Any practical tasks you’d like covered, such as collecting mail or watering plants
The more I know, the smoother each visit will be for your cat.
Support For Multi-Pet Homes Including Dog Walking And Dog Sitting
If you have dogs as well as cats, I also offer one-to-one dog walking and in-home dog sitting across Crosspool and Sheffield. This means one trusted pet sitter can look after all your animals, keeping everything consistent and simple. Whether it’s a solo dog walk or daily dog sitting visits, I can cover every pet in your household. While I do not offer dog boarding or overnight stays, my house sitting visits provide a high-quality alternative to traditional kennels.
Ready to get started? Call me to book your free meet and greet or to have a friendly chat about your cat’s needs. There’s no obligation, just honest, experienced advice from someone who genuinely loves what they do.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a cat sitter typically charge per visit in Crosspool?
At K9 Time, I charge £14 for a 15-minute cat sitting visit and £20 for a 30-minute visit in Crosspool. These prices are straightforward with no hidden extras. Costs elsewhere in Sheffield can vary, but my rates reflect the level of experience and personal attention your cat receives.
What is included in a standard cat-sitting visit (feeding, litter trays, play and updates)?
Every visit includes feeding your cat according to your instructions, refreshing their water, cleaning and replenishing the litter tray, and spending quality time with your cat through play or cuddles. You also receive photo updates, video clips, and a full visit report through a free mobile app after each visit.
How far in advance should I book a sitter during weekends and school holidays?
I’d recommend booking as early as possible for weekends and school holidays, as these are my busiest periods. Getting in touch at least two to three weeks ahead gives us time to arrange a meet and greet and set up a visit schedule that works for your cat’s routine.
What questions should I ask to spot red flags in a pet sitter before booking?
Ask whether they’re insured, DBS checked, and registered with a professional body like NarpsUK. Find out if they offer a meet and greet before starting. Check whether they send updates during visits.
A trustworthy local cat sitter will be happy to answer all of these questions. While apps like Pawshake or Rover are popular, always check if you are covered by the Rover guarantee when booking through platforms. Many owners look for the Rover guarantee for peace of mind, but as an independent local cat sitter, I provide my own full insurance and professional accountability for every visit. I aim to provide a higher level of personal care than you might find with random local cat sitters on a large platform.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for helping a cat settle while I’m away?
The 3-3-3 rule suggests it can take a cat 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to learn your routine, and 3 months to fully settle. This applies more to new cats adjusting to a home. For established cats, keeping their routine consistent with regular cat sitting visits is the best way to keep them calm while you’re away.
What are the most common health warning signs to watch for during cat care visits?
Key signs to watch for include changes in appetite, excessive hiding, vomiting, diarrhoea, and unusual lethargy. Difficulty using the litter tray or signs of laboured breathing are also concerns. With over 40 years of cat care experience, I know what to look for and will contact you and your vet promptly if anything seems off.