My name is Kathy "Kat" Kergaravat(A/K/A "Aunt Kat").

I have been a pet lover and caretaker my entire life. I opened Berkshire Pet Pals, LLC in 2010 after spending more than 20 years as a nurse. While I loved working with and helping people, it was the animals that brought me true happiness.

Before pet sitting became a "thing", I realized that there was a need for caring and experienced pet caregivers. Especially for pets with special needs. At that time, I had 10 cats, 5 ferrets, and 3 dogs. A few of them had medical conditions that required medication and special care. I found it nearly impossible to find experienced people to take care of them when I had to leave home for any length of time. That was my "aha" moment.

While I have always been the first to volunteer to take care of pets for family and friends, I didn't start my first pet venture until I opened my retail business, Best Petz, in 2000. After a few years in retail, I saw that a direct care service was needed in my area. Along with my husband's support and encouragement, I created Berkshire Pet Pals, LLC from the ground up. Berkshire Pet Pals, LLC was born out of a love of all pets and my devotion to providing the best care possible when their owners had to be away. It was a successful endeavor that I shared with my husband for more than 15 years until his death in 2021.

Pet care was NOT "just a job" for me! It is more than just providing food and water or scooping a litter box! It certainly is more than just a walk, exercise, and playtime. Don't get me wrong, providing medications and treatments are important tasks! Those things are essential to the wellbeing of pets, but for me it more than that! It is about building a bond and getting to know the pets! Quality time matters. Whether it is just quiet time, cuddle time or laptime! Those moments can be the most rewarding experiences you can have with a pet! It builds trust, confidence, and allows you to get to know what is "normal" for each pet. Every pet is an individual and like people, they have their own unique personality, likes, and dislikes!

In the years that followed, I have had many setbacks. Through all of them, my pets are what kept me going. In an effort to reinvent myself and rebuild something that is important to me, I have gone through several name changes and offerings. I would like to think of it as my ever-evolving pet care journey. Always looking for ways to improve and make things BETTER.

In 2024, I found myself unable to work due to a health crisis and had to close my business. I underwent a grueling chemo regimen that left me with some serious side effects that I am still trying to manage. It is the animals that saw me through this most difficult time and it is for them that I continue to persevere.

As I went through the recovery phase, I asked God for help in trying to visualize my future. Aunt Kat's was the result. It conveys a warmth and caring that I hope I can continue to bring to others as I push through this part of my journey.

Going forward, I am not sure where life will take me, but I do know that the animals are what give me strength and courage to do it all alone. It is with a deep appreciation, love and much gratitude that I continue to keep looking ahead.

I appreciate all of the ongoing love and support from my family, friends, and clients! I do not know where I would be without all of you.

Thank-you for your patience, understanding, and ongoing support as I continue to navigate this new chapter in my life.

With much Love and Gratitude Always,