Liz and Ali Hardy have always been animal people — the kind who notice the dog at the party before the people, and who understand that pets are family members with routines, quirks, favorite toys, preferred snacks and opinions about where they like to nap.
In many ways, pet sitting found them long before they made a business of it.
Both sisters worked for a pet-sitting company when they were younger, and their dad often encouraged them to do something of their own. In 2018, they took his advice.
What began as a simple idea has grown into a trusted business built on relationships, reliability and care that feels more like calling a friend than hiring a service.
Most often, the Hardy sisters care for cats and dogs. Over the years, their client list has included fish, hamsters, guinea pigs, tropical birds, horses, chickens, rabbits, sugar gliders, ferrets and even a tarantula.
There is, apparently, little they will not try.
For Liz and Ali, the joy of pet sitting is about more than spending time with animals, though that part is certainly a perk. What they love most is offering an act of service.
When families travel, leaving pets behind can be stressful. There are schedules to remember, litter boxes to scoop, medications to manage, walks to take, doors to lock and animals who need reassurance. Liz and Ali step in with patience, consistency and care.
They are not only caring for pets. They are giving people peace of mind.
That personal feeling is a big part of what makes their business special. It is just the two of them. Clients know who is coming into their home and who is caring for their animals. Often, if clients do not start out as friends, they become friends quickly.
Of course, caring for animals also comes with stories.
One memorable visit involved a front door lock that malfunctioned, leaving only one possible solution: entering through a very small doggie door. Thankfully, there are pictures.
There have been sweet moments, too. After one pet-sitting family lost their dog, Liz and Ali helped place a stray dog with them. Rolo became part of the family — and the sisters still get to pet sit for him today.
Stories like that are part of what has made this little venture so meaningful. Through pet sitting, Liz and Ali have made countless connections across Smyrna, one walk and furry introduction at a time.
Their community ties have helped the business grow naturally. Liz is a familiar face at Stout Brothers in Smyrna Market Village, and Ali manages Dr. Ofek Chiropractic. For many clients, seeing them around town adds comfort when handing over the keys, the alarm code and the care of a beloved pet.
It matters to know the person holding the leash, opening the back door or sitting with the nervous cat until it decides everything might be okay.
For Liz and Ali, trust is at the heart of pet sitting. Their advice to pet owners is simple: do your research and find someone who feels right. This is not just about finding someone to fill a food bowl. It is about finding someone who will care for your pet, your home and your peace of mind.
After years of dogs, cats, chickens, rabbits, sugar gliders and one very memorable tarantula, the Hardy sisters are grateful for every family who has trusted them.
Because in the end, pet sitting is not just about animals. It is about loving people well by loving their pets well, too.
Follow along on Instagram: @hardysisterspetsitting