We are proud to have been featured in Voyage Phoenix’s Hidden Gems series.”

Chris Burns Article Plaque - Gold Frame

VoyagePhoenix

Hidden Gems Series


Chris Burns sitting outdoors with a tabby cat on his lap and a golden retriever beside him

Photo courtesy of Reliable Sitters

Hidden Gems:

Meet Chris Burns of Reliable Sitters

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Burns.


Hi Chris, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

From Lifelong Animal Lover to Trusted Community Pet Sitter: My Journey

My love for animals began at a very young age. My first dog, a sweet beagle named Flip, was more than just a pet – she was part of the family. We had her for 11 wonderful years, and when she passed away from old age, it was heartbreaking. Not long after, we welcomed a basset hound named Thunder into our home. These early experiences shaped my deep connection with animals and helped me realize how much joy and comfort they bring to our lives.

Growing up, I always felt grounded and happy whenever I was around animals. There was something special about the companionship they offered – unconditional love, loyalty, and a calming presence. Even as life got busier and I entered the workforce, that love for animals never faded.

Years later while working full-time, I found myself needing extra income to help with everyday expenses. At the same time, I wanted something meaningful – work that didn’t just pay the bills but also brought me joy.

Hidden Gems: Meet Chris Burns of Reliable Sitters — continued


That’s when starting a pet sitting business came naturally – I took a leap and turned my love for animals into a profession.

Business grew fast after I moved to the Stonegate community and advertised in the monthly Admail newsletter. One happy client became two, then five, then ten. Referrals poured in, and eventually I left my full-time job to pet sit full time.

Today, I own RELIABLE SITTERS, offering compassionate care and peace of mind. What started with a beagle named Flip has become a fulfilling career. I look forward to serving even more pet owners in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

Balancing full-time work and pet sitting was difficult. I walked dogs before work and visited clients right after. I lost customers who needed midday visits. I knew I had to choose one path – it was time for a decision.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?

Reliable Sitters is a personalized pet sitting and house-sitting service built on trust, reliability, and genuine care. I specialize in in-home pet sitting, daily dog walks, drop-in visits, and companionship for pets who thrive on routine and familiarity. I care for dogs, cats, and other small pets, and am especially attentive to senior pets who may need extra patience and gentle care.

What sets me apart is the personal connection I build with pets and owners. I learn each pet’s personality and needs, and keep owners updated with photos and messages.

Clients appreciate that I treat their pets like family and their homes with respect. Trust and long-term relationships are the heart of what I do.

I’m proud of a service that feels warm and personal – not corporate. When you choose Reliable Sitters, you gain someone who truly cares.

Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?

Visiting my aunt and uncle’s farm in Coudersport, PA was one of my favorite childhood memories. Being surrounded by animals and nature inspired my lifelong love for caring for pets.