Jerry Wentz, owner of Homesitters of Raleigh & Cary, in Raleigh, N.C., will end his term as Past President of the Board of Directors of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) next month. He will be succeeded by current President Candance Labane-Godfrey in January.

Before becoming Past President in 2006, Wentz served a two-year term as President, where he was responsible for leading the strategic vision of the board of directors on behalf of the NAPPS membership. He has served NAPPS in a variety of roles including a three-year term as the organization's Secretary-Treasurer. He is also involved with the Certification Committee and the national Presents 4 Pets collection campaign.

NAPPS is a national nonprofit trade association dedicated to promoting the concept of in-home pet care, supporting the professionals engaged in at-home pet care, promoting the welfare of animals, and improving and expanding the industry of pet sitting. NAPPS provides valuable credibility, networking and education to help foster the success of their members.

The NAPPS Board of Directors is composed of pet sitters, business owners, and entrepreneurs who are leaders in the at-home pet care industry. Unlike other national associations, NAPPS is the only nonprofit association run by members, for members. In this capacity, board members are responsible for helping to shape the agenda and direction of the association, providing tools and support to foster the success of members' businesses, promoting the value of pet sitting to the public, and advocating for the welfare of animals.

"On behalf of the association, I would like to thank Jerry for his service and commitment to NAPPS," commented Labane-Godfrey. "NAPPS is fortunate to have had such a dedicated individual working to further the goals of the organization and the interests of the industry."

Wentz and his wife Elizabeth took over ownership of Homesitters of Raleigh & Cary in 1990. The company provides clients with a wide-range of pet sitting services in the Wake County area.