Splash out with pool maintenance skills

Pet SitterSplash out with pool maintenance skills 

 There’s nothing better than diving into the cool, crystal water of a backyard pool on a warm, humid day. To ensure clear, glistening water provides the refreshing reprieve you need on a sizzling day, here are some ways to keep up to date with pool maintenance.  

Regular cleaning: Leaves, dirt, bugs and grass often find their way into pool water. Regularly skim the pool surface to clean away any debris. If you don’t have an automated cleaner, clean down the walls and tiles of the pool with a suitable brush to prevent algae from forming. A pool vacuum can also help to clean dirt and sediment from settling on the bottom of the pool. 

Maintain the correct water chemistry: Now, you don’t have to be a scientist, but you do need to know a thing or two about pH levels, chlorine and minerals. Speak with your local pool expert to get the correct levels for your salt water, chlorine, or mineral pool. An understanding of the water chemistry and how to maintain it, is crucial in creating a clean, and healthy swimming environment. Plus, the right chemical balance will also prevent issues such as cloudiness and equipment corrosion. 

Filter maintenance: The pool filter helps trap dirt and debris. Clean and replace filters when needed and according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Cloudy water is often caused by dirty filters, so best to keep up this important maintenance task. 

Water levels: Several days of rain, hot, humid weather or a day of energetic splashing can impact the water levels of pools. The general rule is to keep the water level around the middle of the skimmer opening. Pool blankets can help with water evaporation and can support lower pool heating costs.  

Pool equipment: Pool equipment such as pumps, skimmers and heaters that are exposed to the elements can deteriorate over time. Monitor pool equipment to ensure they continue to function correctly and replace parts when necessary. 

For year-round fun in the water, maintaining pool health and hygiene is a must. Live-in house sitters can help with everyday pool maintenance while homeowners are travelling. Search for experienced house sitters to care for your home the next time you need to travel. 

The pet sitter with a fondness for felines

Cat Whisperer

 Violet’s journey into pet sitting started a few years back when a friend nudged her to “just give it a go.” Fast forward, and she’s now the go-to pet sitter in Sydney and Melbourne, known as The Aussie Cat Whisperer.

Growing up with a love for animals, especially cats, she’s built a solid reputation over the past year with Mindahome, charming even the pickiest felines. While she’s also cared for dogs, it’s her knack for connecting with cats that has pet owners raving about her online.

Currently, she’s enjoying a 12-month sit with two adorable kitties and loves sharing tips for anyone looking to dive into the pet-sitting world. Continue reading “The pet sitter with a fondness for felines”

Pet sit like a local, for locals

For many of us, house and pet sitting is about exploring new territory, walking the road less travelled and meeting new pets and people to broaden your horizons.

However, if you’re a newcomer to the lifestyle or returning to house and pet sitting after a brief hiatus, choosing local pet sits can present just as many exciting opportunities.  Continue reading “Pet sit like a local, for locals”

Top Tips: Washing Your Dog

How to wash a dog

Generally speaking, dogs only need to be bathed when necessary. If they have accumulated dirt on their coat or they have an unpleasant odour that won’t go away, then it might be time for a good scrub and clean.

Bathing helps to remove excess hair, scale and debris and improve the shine to your dog’s coat.

RSPCA Pet Insurance has put together a comprehensive Ultimate Guide to Grooming and Bathing Your Dog for a step by step guide and below are few tips to help you get started. Continue reading “Top Tips: Washing Your Dog”

Live a More Comfortable Life as a Pet Sitter

Pet sitter with dog

When you become a pet sitter you unlock some of the secrets to leading a happy and stress-free life. Don’t believe us? We surveyed our members to find out a few of the reasons they choose to pet sit.

Some of the results may surprise you, some may not. But it’s the little everyday benefits of the pet sitting lifestyle that prove there is much to be gained by choosing a life that focusses on caring for other people’s pets.

Save for a Home Faster

A survey of our members found that 27% said that they chose the lifestyle to save on rent and almost 30% said that house and pet sitting helped them save for their own home. Housing prices in Australia’s capital cities remain at an all-time high and out of reach for many young Aussies. Of the members surveyed, 64% said that they saved up to $5,000 by pet sitting. That’s a hefty sum that you can put towards a home of your own. Continue reading “Live a More Comfortable Life as a Pet Sitter”