It all started with an orange tabby kitten. After experiencing the sudden loss of my first kitten, I adopted another from a local cat rescue. As a recent graduate of UT Austin, I promptly named him Bevo. That one small act of saving a kitten’s life changed mine as well—it introduced me to the world of animal rescue.

I began volunteering with the rescue where I adopted my kitten but soon felt called to do more. In 2005, I co-founded a local nonprofit, New Beginnings Cat Rescue. This incredibly rewarding journey has provided me with the knowledge and experience to deepen my passion for helping both pets and the people who love them.

Like many in animal rescue, I volunteered my time while working a full-time job. My primary source of income came from a career in commercial real estate. Over time, pet sitting became a natural extension of everything I had learned and loved. The combination of my experience in property management and animal welfare led to the formation of Whisker Watchers by Angela, LLC in 2009.

Building lasting relationships with pet sitting clients has allowed me to share in the joy of welcoming new pets and the heartache of watching beloved companions grow older. Caring for rescued animals with special needs—both young and senior—has given me valuable experience in administering medications and monitoring subtle changes in behavior, appetite, and mood. Just as pet owners support their pets through every stage of life, a pet sitter should be equally prepared to do the same. Whether your pet is recovering from illness or injury, or in need of in-home hospice care, our services can be thoughtfully customized to meet those unique needs.

I eventually left my career in commercial real estate to pursue a master’s degree in Social Work. During my studies, one of my internships was at an emergency veterinary hospital, where I practiced Veterinary Social Work (VSW). Veterinary social workers support both pet owners and veterinary professionals as they navigate the emotional and ethical challenges related to animal care and welfare. The common thread connecting all the things I love quickly became clear.

The longer one works in animal welfare, the more losses they experience—not only with their own pets or rescued animals, but also with the beloved pets they care for professionally. Recognizing how deeply the loss of a pet affects everyone involved—the caregivers, the owners, and even other pets in the home—I realized my true calling was to help others heal from this recurring pain. I became a licensed mental health therapist specializing in supporting both pet owners and caregivers through the grieving process.

Angela Corley is a Licensed Master Social Worker working under supervision of Megan Coit, LCSW-S. She has a unique blend of skills and expertise that make her a compassionate and resourceful therapist. She brings a holistic approach to her practice, supporting clients in navigating complex emotions, finding balance, and building resilience.

Angela has a deep understanding of the profound bond between humans and their pets. Her experience as a Veterinary Social Work intern, combined with years of work in the animal welfare field, enables her to provide empathetic support to clients coping with the loss of a beloved pet.