Westgate Ark founder Paul Black offers a cat-sitting service. This service is run by Paul himself, and is separate to the running and volunteers at Westgate Ark Rescue Centre. For details and bookings, please contact Paul directly.

Paul offers two types of service, either of which may be more suitable depending on your location, the individual cat/s, and the exact type of service preferred. These types are ‘Home Visits’ and the ‘Home from Home’ service.

Home Visits are up to 20 mins duration during which Paul will clean and replenish food & water bowls, see to litter trays, and give attention to the cat/s if the cat allows this. Simple tasks like putting the bin out on bin days, watering plants, adjusting curtains, putting lights on/off are also included.

Prior to the home visits, Paul will come to your home to meet you and the cat/s, be shown the routine and take any instructions, along with collecting the door key and receiving any security codes for alarms or access.

This first visit will be free, all further visits will incur a minimum charge.

The following algorithm is used for pricing. Minimum charge per visit (up to 20 mins) = £15, plus travel charge @ 45p per mile.

Thus, for example a 20 minute home visit with a journey distance of 20 miles in total, would be a total charge of £23.40. (£15 + £9.00 travel).

By contrast a 20 minute home visit with just a 3 mile total journey distance would be £16.35 (£15 + £1.35)

Under the 'home from home' service, your cat will be looked after in Paul's home. The cat will have the opportunity to get much interaction with people (if choosing to do so). Your cat will not come into contact with other animals, or be allowed outside.

All cats admitted for under this service should be fully treated against fleas and worms.

The price will depend on the number of cats, their care needs and the duration of their stay. Prices start from £15 per 24 hrs, though a discounted rate will be applied after 14 days.

Cat food and cat litter should be supplied, or will be charged at the rate of £2 per day.