From pythons to puppies, Kevin Nolk has cared for all sorts of pets

Kevin Nolk is a lifelong pet lover. A resident of Elliot Lake for the past four years, he has built a thriving pet care business that caters to the needs of busy pet owners.

Formerly known as Dog Services, the company has recently rebranded to “Pet Sitting and Walking,” reflecting its expanded offerings that now include a variety of pets beyond just dogs.

Nolk’s journey began nearly a decade ago in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, where he started with just one dog. Over the years, his dedication and love for animals allowed him to grow his clientele to an impressive 30 pets, encompassing dogs, cats, birds, fish, rodents, and even a friendly python named Fred. “Thank goodness he was friendly!” Nolk chuckles. “He was definitely the most unexpected visitor I had, but he was a sweetheart.”

Once he relocated, Nolk was determined to bring the same level of compassionate care to his new community. His commitment to providing exceptional services has made him a trusted name among local pet owners. The recent name change to ”Pet Sitting and Walking” comes as a logical step forward, as he has seen an increase in requests for cat and bird visits over the past year.

“My goal has always been to help pet owners who have busy lives,” explains the business owner. “Whether they’re working long hours or have to travel for medical appointments or shopping, I want to ensure that their pets receive the loving care they deserve.”

The business offers a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of his clients. Overnight pet sitting services where clients can choose to have their pets cared for in his home or in their own. “I provide a complimentary meet and greet session, allowing both the pet and the owner to get acquainted with my home environment,” he explains. A home which features a fully fenced-in backyard complete with plenty of shade for furry visitors. “It’s all about making both the pets and their owners feel comfortable,” he emphasizes. Nolk currently has a network of clients willing to provide referrals based on their positive experiences.

Pet day care service caters to busy pet owners who need assistance for 8-10 hours during the day. Whether it’s for work commitments or medical appointments in nearby cities such as Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, or Espanola, he ensures that pets are well cared for and entertained.

Recognizing that exercise is essential for a pet’s well-being, he provides tailored pet walking services. He offers two options: a 30-minute walk for smaller pets and a 60-minute session for larger or more active animals, ensuring that each pet receives the attention and activity they require.

In addition, Nolk offers home protection services. For clients who travel for extended periods, he provides a unique service that includes checking on homes to deter potential break-ins. Visiting the property daily to assess for any issues, collects mail and packages, waters plants, and ensures that the home appears lived-in by rotating lights. He offers daily communication to clients through phone calls and photos, which gives owners peace of mind.

Reflecting on the growth of his business, he expresses gratitude for the support received from the Elliot Lake community. “It’s heartwarming to see how much people value their pets and trust me to take care of them,” he says. “I aim to treat every pet as if they were my own.”

Nolk is not just a pet sitter; he’s a vital part of society, ensuring that no pet feels neglected, no matter how busy life gets.