a helpful hand

More information about this house sitter

Hi, my name is Derek. I'm 69, single and this is my tenth year house sitting. Currently at a repeat sit in Canberra with 3 character cats and the wonderful kelpie cross Juno.

I thought house sitting would be a great way to get to see and know more of Australia and Australians. The home owners, pets, locals, cultures and geography I'm meeting continue to supply a wealth of positive experiences. It's also a pleasure to be able to help people get away in the knowledge their homes and pets are in safe, committed hands.

Then covid arrived. Good fortune presented a 22 month house sit in Melbourne via a couple stranded in Florida. Now travel is back to normal I'm back on the road.

Skills under my belt include gardening and house maintenance as well as pool care. I have owned, as well as looked after many pets; being experienced with dogs, cats, birds, chooks, ducks, horses, guinea pigs, alpacas, a Shetland pony, poddy calves, fish, an aquarium snail and bees (a former orchard interest). I am reliable and would keep your pet's established routines as close to normal as possible.

I understand how important peace of mind is with respect to the well being of pets. As such, I keep in regular email contact with home owners regarding pets and always attach pics of their escapades. I also spend the majority of my time around the house and therefore, with your pet/s.

I am also responsible with the care and security necessary to keep a house safe and sound. I drive but don't have a car (environmental); public transport does the job. I live simply via a connection with Buddhist philosophy and practice. I don't drink or smoke.

I would consider any location in Australia - city, country town or rural. Longer sits are preferable; 4 weeks plus - but always consider shorter periods depending on location and bookings.

If you think I could be suitable and dates fit I'll forward references and referee contacts when applying for your position. Thank you for your consideration. Read more...