Brit, I think if you are passionate about this, and it sounds like you are, go for it!
I used a petsitter for my 2 cats many years ago, about 10 years and she charged me $12 a day to come and check up on them and clean out the litter box. She would also get my mail and turn various lights on and off so it look as though someone was home--which I thought was a great touch.
I didn't think $12 was out of line at all. I got her name from both my vets office, at the time (in Severna Park) and some of the yellow page directory, not the regular phone book. I don't remember what it was but I think it was all pet related.
She was wonderful and one time I had an family emergency where we had to fly out of town that very night and she was very accomodating and made special arrangements to squeeze me in. At that time, she was working along with maybe the help of her daughter from time to time.
I would probably suggest starting out small and alone until you really get a good feel and then look at adding another person. I'm one of those people who am very leary of allowing people access into my home. I want to make sure of who is coming in and who has access. When I had a cleaning service, they didn't even have a key. I would be home and working in the office while they were in my home. Just something to think about. Good luck with it if you decide to pursue this.
BTW, Congrats on getting your cause on Conner Cares passed thru legislation. I saw the story on the news the other night. You and your family must be so proud as you should be.
