Exploring Life & Business with Heidi Trautman of BellaLunas Home & Animal Care

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heidi Trautman.

Hi Heidi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Absolutely! BellaLunas Home & Animal Care was created out of a deep love for animals and a shared belief that compassionate, personalized in-home care makes a world of difference—for both pets and their people.

My co-owner began offering pet and house sitting in the De Soto, Kansas area, helping friends, neighbors, and professional contacts who needed someone they could truly trust. I came to this work through years of volunteering in the animal rescue world and eventually managing for a local pet sitting business. When that business was sold, it became clear to me that the need for high-quality, thoughtful care hadn’t gone away—especially for pets with behavioral challenges or medical needs that don’t always do well in traditional boarding environments.

We launched BellaLunas to fill that gap. Our mission is simple: to care for pets and homes with the same love and reliability we’d want for our own. From medication schedules to quirky pet routines to the little details that help a house still feel like home, we bring intention and empathy to every visit. It’s been incredibly rewarding to serve the Kansas City area and stay rooted in the community we both call home.

A few of the photos I’ve shared highlight some meaningful parts of this journey: snapshots of clients I’ve helped build trust with strangers through patient care, an image of my co-owner—someone I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without—and a photo from a local nail trim fundraiser that I project manage to give back to the community and raise essential funds for a rescue. Another captures moments from outreach events where I meet animals across KC, reinforcing our commitment to hands-on advocacy and care beyond the business itself.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all—it’s been full of learning curves, late nights, and moments of uncertainty. But every challenge has made BellaLunas Home & Animal Care stronger and more rooted in our mission.

One of the biggest hurdles has been starting fresh after the local pet sitting business I managed was sold. It has been tough to rebuild trust, visibility, and infrastructure from the ground up, especially in a field where relationships and consistency are everything. We knew there was still a need in the community, but getting the word out in a meaningful, ethical way—without stepping on anyone’s toes—required care and patience.

Another challenge has been setting boundaries while growing. As heart-led business owners, we want to say yes to every request and go above and beyond. But we’ve had to learn how to protect our own energy so we can continue showing up fully for the pets and people who rely on us.

Weathering unpredictable schedules, navigating pet health emergencies, and maintaining the kind of personal touch that clients appreciate—it’s not always easy. But it’s so worth it. We’ve built something steady and soul-led, and that’s something we’re really proud of.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
BellaLunas Home & Animal Care is more than a pet sitting business—it’s a heart-centered service built on trust, advocacy, and genuine connection. We provide in-home pet care, plant care, and house sitting services across the Kansas City area, specializing in personalized, dependable care for animals of all kinds—especially those who may not thrive in traditional boarding environments.

Our clients know us for our calm, consistent presence and our ability to adapt to each animal’s unique needs and routines. We prioritize keeping pets in their familiar environments and maintaining as much of their usual routine as possible, which helps reduce stress and supports their well-being—something often lost in traditional boarding settings. Whether that means caring for a reactive dog, administering medication to a senior cat, or just keeping a shy pet company, we approach every home with empathy and intention.

What sets us apart is our background in animal rescue and behavioral support. Both co-owners have deep roots in the community—one with years of experience managing a local pet sitting company, and the other having started organically by helping families in De Soto, Kansas. We’ve seen the gaps in standard care and set out to offer something more thoughtful: in-home support that truly honors the bond between people and their animals.

We’re proud to be advocates as much as service providers. BellaLuna’s is committed to supporting rescue efforts and educating clients about compassionate, loving, and healthy care. At our core, we believe that your pets—and your peace of mind—deserve more than just a quick drop-in. They deserve presence, patience, and the kind of care that feels like family, always focused on what’s truly best for their well-being.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about the Kansas City area is that it feels like the best of both worlds—there’s always something new to try or explore, whether it’s a local event, a hidden dining gem, or a fun outdoor activity. Yet, despite its growth, KC manages to keep that small-town feel alive with genuine Midwestern charm and a spirit of helpfulness that makes you feel part of a close-knit community.

Through BellaLunas Home & Animal Care, as well as my rescue work and animal education outreach, I’ve had the privilege to network with some of the kindest, most caring people around. It’s a community that really cares about its animals and neighbors.

On the flip side, one challenge we face is the unfortunate number of animals who end up abandoned or in need within the area. While it’s heartbreaking, it’s also the very reason BellaLunas exists. Our mission is to support the community by providing compassionate pet care and education to help prevent these situations and promote healthier, happier lives for pets and their families. It’s a challenge we’re proud to meet head-on with empathy and action.

Pricing:

• DOG WALKS: Starting at $22 per visit
• DROP-IN VISITS: Starting at $20 per visit
• 1-HOUR VISITS: Starting at $40 per visit
• OVERNIGHTS: Starting at $70 per visit

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sites.google.com/view/bellalunasks/home
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellalunasllc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellalunasks
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-trautman/
• Other: https://Bit.ly/bellalunasks