Testimonials

Cozy Critters enjoys an impeccable reputation of total professionalism, dedication and caring.

Veterinarian recommends Tessa Kimmel
“During the time I worked with Tessa Kimmel she was constantly compassionate and caring with pets she was entrusted with. I unreservedly recommend her for any position which requires an individual who can be trusted to take responsibility for the well being of an animal.”
– Deji Odetoyinbo, DVM, MVSc.

Her love of animals is quite extraordinary
“My wife and I have been using Tessa Kimmel’s pet sitting services for as long as I can remember.

Over the years, she has cared for our old Beagle, our 2nd Beagle and our German Shepherds. She looks after the house as well. Her love of animals is quite extraordinary and her dedication to the cause is outstanding. Whenever we’d return from our vacation, not only did the dogs look better than ever due to the regular brushing and exercise she provided for them, but the house was always cleaner than when we left it!

We also felt the pups were in good hands due to Tessa’s experience working in veterinary clinics over the years. We highly recommend her services.”
– Steve Goldberger & Dory Karr

Tessa was determined that Buela live another day
“Tessa worked for us for a number of years as caregiver to our 4 dogs, cat and budgie. One of our dogs, Buela, had been diagnosed with cancer. While we were away in Australia for 10 weeks, she took a turn for the worse. The vet suggested she be put down. Tessa did not agree and was determined that Buela live to see another day. She contacted us in Sydney and told us what was happening. She worked with and cared for Buela every day.

I am happy to say Buela lived for another 6 months. Those were the best 6 months I had with her and if it had not been for Tessa, those 6 months would not have been. I highly recommend Tessa as an animal caregiver.”
– Maria Armstrong

Tessa knew what to look out for and what to do should there be a surprise medical emergency
“I first met Tessa in when she was a veterinary technician. My cat, Binky, was diagnosed with diabetes, requiring insulin twice daily. Being frequently out of town, I was concerned about Binky’s health management but was reluctant to board him where I knew he would be unhappy.

Tessa knew what to look out for and what to do should there be a surprise medical emergency, which is not something all pet sitters know how to handle. I found Tessa to be personable, capable and eminently trustworthy. She loves animals, has a great affinity for them and understands pets are family members and deserve respect and attention.”
– Betty Quan

She asked questions I probably would never have considered but were important to know for anyone looking after a person's home
“I first met Tessa approximately 10 years ago. I was looking for someone to take care of my aging and arthritic dog when I would be out of town. My veterinarian gave me Tessa’s name.

Tessa’s experience and word-of-mouth reputation were impeccable. I knew she had experience in looking after sick and aging animals, and that was very important to me because my dog required medication as well as assistance in getting up and down stairs.

When we met in person for an interview, Tessa was very willing to spend as much time as needed with me to ensure she had all the information required to properly look after both my house and my dog.

She asked questions I probably would never have considered but were important to know for anyone looking after a person’s home. She was the only one of several people I interviewed who did anything like this.

She also made sure she spent lots of time with my dog to get to know her, so my dog would not be stressed at being left with a stranger. It was very clear to me that Tessa was head and shoulders above the rest. As expected, Tessa did a superb job and I continued to hire her for several years after. I had no hesitation in recommending her highly to my friends.”
– Linda Dann

Tessa knew something more was wrong. She let us know she was taking The Crusher to the vet that afternoon and would call after the appointment
“We have two cats – Toonces and The Crusher. The Crusher has been battling hyperthyroidism. Loss of weight and sleepless nights for the 17-year old cat has been stressful for all. Mark and I were looking forward to a much-needed getaway. Tessa and I arranged a day for her to come and go over all the particulars.

Tessa started a concise itinerary of medication times, feeding times, indoor/outdoor privileges, litter changes – I had no idea how much effort it actually takes in the course of a day to care for everyone. On the fourth day of our holiday, Tessa phoned. The Crusher had stopped eating and drinking. Was he missing us or was it symptoms of his thyroid levels being high. Tessa knew something more was wrong.

She let us know she was taking The Crusher to the vet that afternoon and would call after the appointment. Tessa called and The Crusher had an abscess on his gums. Tessa assured us everything was going to be ok. She would make sure both his medications would be administered and she would try some new treats to get him eating.

We reached Tessa at home the next day and The Crusher had perked up and was eating and drinking again. What a relief!

Tessa is a conscientious, attentive and astute caregiver. Her willingness to go the extra distance for the well being of our cat (and our peace of mind) was admirable. She has a gentle and respectful rapport with animals. We are thankful for her professional and loving approach to care giving. She has proven and endeared herself to our pets and us. Mark and I would be happy to recommend Tessa for your pet sitting needs.”
– Heather & Mark Jakobsen

She cares; she’s interested; she’s responsible and she’s qualified. Money well spent
“I have two aging, Siamese cats. One in compensated renal failure and the other, recently recovered from the removal of a malignant tumour in his bowel. Their physical balances are delicate and it doesn't take much for them to go off their food or become despondent.

In August, Peter and I took a much-needed vacation and I asked Tessa to look after things. I knew her from regular visits to the vet clinic and needed someone who understood cats, could recognize signs of distress and know what to do. At this point, she had never worked for me before and I took off hoping things would be ok.

When we returned, the cats were fine. They were discovered lazing about in the master bedroom and gave me that look as if to say “what are you doing home?” The key for me is that it looked like they didn't even know I was gone.

Recently my male went off his food again and I had to take him to the vet. It was busy so I had to wait in a crowded room to see him. The longer I waited, the more anxious I got, fearing the worst. Tessa came into the reception area and knowing she was there made me feel better. I knew if Bobby had to be admitted for treatment, she would look after him. I would gladly use Tessa again. She cares; she’s interested; she’s responsible and she’s qualified. Money well spent.”
– Karen Brooks

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