ALYSSA Woodland, 19, of Brighton-Le-Sands clearly adores animals.
Not only does she own an "anxious" cat called Speckles, she works at a vet's, is studying animal vet bioscience, and hopes to become a vet.
"I've loved animals since I was six years old," Ms Woodland said. "In my work now I get them their food and medication."
Now she is embarking on a project she hopes will see her looking after many animals.
This is the result of a new online business, Mad Paws, in which she will get paid for minding other people's pets in their own homes or overnight at $40 a night.
"I'll go to the owner's home, people will feel more comfortable in their own houses," she said.
"I'll find out where the dog normally gets walked and take it to that park or place.
"I'll make sure I give them lots of cuddles."
Mad Paws is a site that allows pet owners across the nation to find a local "pet sitter."
There are already 200 registered pet sitters and pet owners.
Mad Paws is the brainchild of Sydney-based Alexis Soulopoulos, who helped a friend who was struggling to find a place for his golden retriever Honey to stay while he travelled.
Linking pet owners with pet sitters, Mad Paws allows the carer to find their ultimate sitter match by posting a pet profile that details any medical issues as well as exercise and food preferences.
The pet owner searches for a sitter by postcode.
Sitters list profiles that include their interests, any other pets in the house and their walking schedule.
The role of the minder suits people unable to have a pet full-time but who love the company of animals.
Details: madpaws.com.au
