
About Us
Bloomington Pet Pals was founded in 2005. It is owned and operated by
Diane Stuercke and Ann Wesley. We both are long-time pet owners who love
our dogs and cats as we would our children.
The importance of home pet care became obvious to us on the occasions
when we were out of town and couldn't take our babies with us. When friends
could babysit, the animals suffered no ill effects. But sometimes friends are
busy or it felt like an imposition to ask. On occasion, we turned to kennels, but
each time we left them at one, we saw the trauma they experienced being in a
strange place. They cried and had to be dragged away from us. They did not
enjoy being with a large group of dogs in a small space and suffered
separation anxiety. They weren't used to concrete floors, even with a blanket
put down. Their boarding reports indicated they frequently didn't eat while
there - either because of stress or an unappealing food. Mixing with other
dogs always brought the possibility of fleas or fights and illness seemed to
follow after every stay.
Finally we realized that many families experience the same situation we did,
and we saw how great the need is for a safe, loving service for pets when
owners are away from home.
We structure our business to provide you with the type of service we would
want for our own animals. Since starting, we've begun working with several
veterinarians and animal authorities to learn all we can about pet behavior,
training basics, recognizing potential health risks and current issues in pet
care. We have grown steadily since we opened and in 2009 we added limited
overnight care to our services. We are bonded and insured.
Winner of the 2008 zootoo.com National Pet Lovers' Choice Award for Best
Pet Sitters.

Diane with Matty and Bella
Ann with Toby
From day one of our business, we wanted to be active
in community events and support the groups whose
members support us. Our support has extended to
groups including The MCHA, Middle Way House,
WonderLab, Indiana University GLBT Alumni
Association, Cutters Soccer, the Pinnacle School,
Sycamore Land Trust, Casa del Toro Pit Bull Rescue
and Education, and the Les Turner ALS Association.
In 2010, we made a commitment to be more involved in
public services that benefit animals. We've volunteered at
vaccine and microchip clinics and we are sponsors of the
Monroe County Humane Association's Walk for the Animals
benefit and annual auction.
Ann has completed training on Disaster Preparedness and
Recuse of Companion Animals with the American Humane
Association. She has been involved in numerous animal
welfare actions. With the MCHA and Humane Society of the
United States, we have assisted in the rescue of dogs from
animal hoarders, from puppy mills and from a dog fighting
operation.

Ann assisted Dr. Lauren Bowling during the
rescue of 70 dogs from an animal
hoarder's mobile home in Bloomfield in
2010. The dogs had to be vaccinated and
needed care for worms and other medical
issues. More dogs were removed from the
same property in 2011.
Bloomington Pet Pals We Play While You're Away
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Community Service
Andi Haynes began working with us over the holidays in 2010. She has experience with cats and dogs
and a strong fondness for Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs. Andi has been a trusted friend for
more than 20 years. She is included on our liability insurance and bond policy. We're happy to have
Andi as part of our team, enabling us to provide quality pet care to more people.
Andi with Daisy
In 2011 Ann became a member of the Monroe County Humane Association Board of Directors.
Ann assisted the Humane Society of
the United States in removing 20 dogs
from a dog fighting operation in 2011.