Serving New York City, Washington DC and the greater DMV area
About Me
I'm insured and bonded through Pet Sitters Associates.
Hi, I’m Nikki Messenger, the founder of Nurtured Connections! I'm a professional petsitter in the DMV & NYC. I started pet & house sitting as a teenager and, as an adult, became the go-to pet and house sitter for colleagues and friends. In 2019, I transitioned into professional pet sitting. I quickly recognized the combination of building relationships and caretaking responsibilities were a great fit for me.
​
I’ve spent most of my career in public health, which often required frequent travel and moves. While the timing isn’t quite right for a pet of my own just yet, I love to soak up all the fun and love I can when I get the opportunity to spend time with others’ pets.
What I love most is learning each pet’s individual personality, rhythms, and needs. I take time to build trust with them whether through quiet companionship, energetic play, or consistent routine. I find it important to learn what works best for each pet and meet them there, especially at a time when their humans are away.
​
Using an authentic, intentional approach, I nurture connections that foster stability, loving care, and peace of mind.
Reviews
Pet: Grady, 5yo Cat
​July 2025: I have had many cat sitters over the past 5 years, and Nikki was by far the best ever! She was so very easy to communicate with, she took way better/cuter pictures of my cat than I ever have, and honestly it was the first time that I was away and didn’t worry or even think about my cat every day because I knew he was in such good hands. Nikki was so conscientious, thoughtful and just wonderful with my Grady boy. He’s been sulking since she left. She also left my home cleaner than she found it. I highly recommend her for your pet!
-Amanda
Alexandria, VA​
Pets: 6yo Bernese Mountain Dog,1yo kitten
Aug & Nov 2025: Nikki was simply amazing and exceeded all expectations we had!! She communicated incredibly well before, during and at the end of the sit. We greatly appreciated how well Nikki listened to our detailed instructions and didn't hesitate to ask questions when clarification was needed. She even graciously took on a few extra tasks that came up as we discussed the sit and as our trip unfolded. Our dog and cat responded very well to the care and love Nikki provided for them and we never once had to question whether they were in attentive and caring hands. We love her, and our dog and cat love her! If you have the chance to engage Nikki for home and petsitting, jump on it! She was completely amazing!!!
​
-Katherine & Richard T.
Bethesda, MD​
Pet: Louie, 2yo Goldendoodle
May 2026:
Nikki, like always, is an incredible sitter. We’ve had the pleasure of having her care for our mini Goldendoodle Louie several times now and it’s always a great experience. Starting weeks in advance, she asks detailed questions so she’s aware of all needs and really lets the dog shine — guiding her on walks. She is amazingly patient. In fact, she cares for him with such kindness that we honestly believe he has more fun with her than with us. Meanwhile, Nikki is sure to give spectacular updates and photos each day, telling us exactly what Louie did and enjoyed. She even goes out of her way to fetch things, if needed, for our return. Did I mention the house is left spotless? She is exactly who I would want looking after my dog and is everything you want in a sitter. We love her and our dog loves her even more.
-Bailey A. and Michael C.
NoMa, DC​
Rates & Services
PRICING
Rates:
-Base rate for one pet: $130/night
-Addtl cat/dog: $15/night
-Addtl bunny: $10/night
-Other addtl pets: (lizards, birds, fish): $5/night
Reservations:
-50% deposit is required to hold dates, with remaining 50% due on the first day of service.
Discounts are provided for sits lasting 3 weeks or longer.
SIGNATURE CARE INCLUDED
Pet Care: Your pets stay comfortable in their familiar environment with regular meals, exercise, and play, while receiving individualized attention tailored to their needs. I remain in your home most of the time (away no more than 6 hours at a time) and provide a daily update with photo, or at a lesser frequency if you prefer.
Home Care: While caring for your pets, I also maintain your home: watering plants, managing trash, collecting mail, ensuring general cleanliness, and creating a lived-in appearance. I can also manage access for service providers like lawn care, cleaners, or pool maintenance.
*[House sitting services without pets is also available, please inquire.]
POLICIES & DETAILS
Specialized Needs Policy:
The following needs may incure additional charges, to be discussed during virtual meet & greet, if applicable:
-Medication
-Care for kittens and puppies
-Care for senior dogs and cats
-Transportation/Parking costs​
Holiday Rate Policy:
An additional $15/night will be charged during the following holidays:
2026 Dates:
-Memorial Day (5.22 – 5.25)
-Independence Day (7.3 – 7.6)
-Labor Day (9.4 – 9.7)
-Thanksgiving (11.20 –11.30)
-Christmas/New Year (12.17.26 – 1.4.27)
Getting Started!
1. Submit this Intake Form
Complete a short online form to inquire about availability and share your pet’s needs, schedule, and care details.
2. Initial Contact
Nikki will review your request and reach out over text to confirm availability and outline next steps.
3. Virtual Meet & Greet
Connect via video call to get to know each other and determine a mutual fit.
4. Booking Confirmation
Once details are finalized, a 50% deposit (applied to your total) secures your booking. Confirmation and agreements will follow.
5. Care Preparation
At least one week prior to your sit, please provide home access details, emergency contacts, and any updated care instructions.
6. Pet Sitting Begins
Final payment is collected at the start of service. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your pet is receiving nurturing, attentive care.
Contact Info
Online Form:
Click this link to start the process!
Email:
Want to ask a clarifying question before filling out the form? Reach out at:
