Versatile Housesitter

More information about this house sitter

I would be interested in looking after your property and caring for your pets.
My name is Pauline and I am a primary teacher who is available for house sitting Saturday to Tuesday school terms (Victoria) and school holidays (Australia wide). I have attached to this profile some references from home owners, whose homes and pets I have looked after.
I have also rented properties in a variety of locations due to different teaching jobs and have received good reports from their owners. I am a non smoker.
Due to my interest in gardening, I enjoy visiting open gardens, exploring plant nurseries and community markets and walking around neighbourhoods looking at local gardens. I start my days with pottering in the garden and would be happy to care for your garden.
I have broad experiences of looking after animals, both my own pets and other people’s animals. These included birds, dogs, cats, reptiles, farm animals and native wildlife. I worked for five years at Healesville Sanctuary, which is part of the Melbourne Zoological parks, as an education officer. I have bred and shown both cats and dogs such as Turkish Van and Birman cats and Japanese Spitz , Jack Russell Terriers and Shetland sheepdogs. I have also participated in obedience competitions for dogs.
My other interests are visiting historical properties, open gardens and art galleries, along with hobbies such gardening and sculpturing with glass and sandstone.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely
Pauline H

REFERENCES :
That’s right, Pauline is a total star. It would be hard to imagine anyone wanting anything more from a house sitter. Very organised; really great conversations and questions, and instant adoration from our dogs. We came home to relaxed and happy pets, beds changed and made beautifully, house in absolutely perfect order. We felt totally confident with Pauline right from the start and she exceeded our expectations every step of the way, We wholeheartedly recommend Pauline and hope we find the opportunity to collaborate again.
- Hugh
Brisbane 2025
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We had a wonderful experience with our dog sitter. Pauline was reliable, caring, and clearly very experienced with dogs. Both of our dogs were extremely well looked after and very happy during our time away. She made sure they were walked regularly, exercised well, and given plenty of attention, which really showed when we returned home to two relaxed and content dogs.

Pauline also took excellent care of our home while we were away, keeping everything clean, tidy, and secure, which gave us great peace of mind. We really appreciated the regular updates and photos, as they reassured us that both our dogs and our house were in very good hands. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Pauline to anyone looking for a trustworthy, attentive, and responsible dog sitter. 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for Pauline from the dogs and our family.
Best skills:
Pets well cared for, Followed instructions, Home neat and clean, Maintained garden, Punctual, Resourceful

Christy
Yarra Junction(2026)
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An amazing sitter, great communication, punctual, flexible and goes over and above to look after house, garden and pets.
Naturally we were concerned how our pet would react to living with a total stranger especially having never met, Pauline arrived at our house after we had left (as arranged) and eased into her and "Frankies' time together. It's obvious Pauline has a way with animals and Frankie seems to have learnt some new manners!
The house was left very clean and some laundry we hadn't got to was folded neatly as well. Pauline declined our offer to leave groceries for her even though we are a distance from town.
Our garden was alive and well on our return despite drought conditions and hot weather for the week of the stay.
We have no hesitation recommending Pauline as a sitter and will definitely welcome her services again if we require.

Best skills:
Pets well cared for, Followed instructions, Home neat and clean, Maintained garden, Punctual, Resourceful

Ben
Laharum Vic (2025)
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To Whom It May Concern,
We are delighted to write a reference for Pauline, who has looked after our home and pets on two separate occasions — once for two weeks and once for 10 days. Throughout both stays, Pauline demonstrated exceptional care, dedication, and professionalism, making her an ideal pet sitter and house sitter.
We have two Golden Retrievers and two Ragdoll cats, all of whom require different levels of attention and care. Pauline managed to perfectly balance their needs, providing regular walks, playtime, and affection for our dogs while ensuring our cats were comfortable and content. She kept us updated frequently with messages, photos, and videos, allowing us to feel reassured that our pets were in the best hands. It was evident from these updates that our pets were very happy, relaxed, and well cared for in our absence.
In addition to her wonderful care for our pets, Pauline also looked after our home and garden with the utmost diligence and respect. Upon our return, we found everything in immaculate condition — our home was clean, tidy, and exactly as we had left it. Our garden, which requires regular watering and upkeep, was well-maintained, showing that Pauline took the time and effort to ensure every aspect of her responsibilities was fulfilled to a high standard.
Pauline is an incredibly kind and thoughtful person, who genuinely cares about the well-being of the pets and properties she is entrusted with. Her proactive communication style and attention to detail made the whole experience stress-free and pleasant for us, and we felt completely at ease knowing that our pets and home were in such capable hands.
We have no hesitation in highly recommending Pauline as a pet sitter and house sitter. Her commitment to providing exceptional care, her reliability, and her warm, caring nature make her an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a trustworthy and dedicated person to look after their pets and home.
Sincerely, Jamie and Anina (and Starla, Dusty, Snowy and Bianca) Sydney, Australia
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Pauline has minded our house for us on four occasions. Twice for approximately ten days, once for five days, and most recently, for seven days. We have a kelpie that requires walks, company and feeding. We also have a fairly large yard area that requires some maintenance depending on the season. Pauline is an animal lover, and a keen gardener. She has a comprehensive knowledge of domestic animals and the things that can go wrong with them, and the same goes for gardens. My elderly mother-in-law lives next door, and has a little dog which requires walking. Pauline has always been happy to add that duty to her list. Pauline’s presence has also given us peace of mind regarding my mother-in-law, as she has daily interaction with her and keeps an eye on her welfare. On our arrival home from holidays, Pauline has always left the house in a tidier state than it usually is when we are in residence.

We highly recommend Pauline as a reliable and trustworthy house sitter.
John
29/07/2018
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July 2014

To Whom It May Concern,

Pauline housesat for me when I was away for a couple of weeks in May 2014. Pauline responded to my ad on a housesitting website, and we communicated by e-mail and text prior to my departure. I was very impressed with Pauline's references and the easy communication we shared prior to meeting in person. I met Pauline the day before I left and was immediately very comfortable with leaving my home and cat in Pauline's capable hands.

Pauline's approach to housesitting was meticulous, she ensured all bases were covered and made sure she could contact me in case of emergency. She was also very concerned for the welfare of my cat and asked for detailed instructions regarding his care and vet details if required.

I arrived home to a beautifully clean house, and a very contented cat. My garden had been watered and weeded in my absence. In short, Pauline went above and beyond the call of duty as a house sitter and I would have no hesitation in recommending Pauline to other homeowners.

I would be happy to give a verbal recommendation and further information if required, as per contact details below.

Sincerely,
Michelle
Cairns QLD

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24th April 2014

Re: Pauline H----

To Whom it May Concern

Pauline H--- looked after our house, pets and garden for us for 2.5 weeks in March/April of this year.

We have since dubbed Pauline our Fairy Godmother! She was wonderful. As soon as we met her, we knew she is an honest, reliable and trustworthy person. We had no qualms about leaving everything with her and would again in a heartbeat.

Upon arriving home, we found the house was clean and Pauline had even washed the bed linen! She had also not only kept our garden alive but done extra work in it, which was amazing. Our two cats were fabulously taken care of, and even the one who usually hides in the wardrobe for days when we have visitors was happily sitting on Pauline’s lap after only a couple of days.

Pauline’s a lovely kind person who we would highly recommend for any house-sitting gig she was being considered for. The people would be lucky to have her. We certainly were.

We’re happy to be contacted if you would like to discuss further.

Carlene and Neil
Canberra
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To Whom It May concern,

Pauline completed a two-week house sit in August 2014; primarily to care for our 16-year-old Abyssinian cat ‘Abbie’ who thinks it is her right to make extraordinary demands on her carers. During our absence Abbie was given the best of attention, with Pauline even providing a larger litter tray to prevent ‘accidental spills’.

Everything was easy; right from communicating with Pauline about the house sit; her emails were always prompt. We met with her the day prior to the commencement of the house sit and orientated her to our home and what we required during our absence. Everything we asked for was carried out. Pauline left our home clean, neat and tidy, which is just what you need when you return from a holiday with a suitcase full of washing!

We have no hesitation in recommending Pauline H----; especially if you are looking for a house sitter who takes pride in looking after your home and pets.

Robyn and Neville
Skennars Head NSW 2478
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From: Michelle
Hi Pauline
We’d like to thank you for taking care of our dog Frankie (Border Terrier) and house while we were away recently.
From our first conversation I felt comfortable and confident that you understood dogs and were very amenable to the individual needs of each dog you look after.
Frankie was relaxed and happy upon our return and the house was clean and tidy and you even left some replacement supplies!
We would be very happy to have you back anytime.
Many thanks
Michelle and family
Canberra (2025)
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Dear Pauline
Karyn and I would like to thank you so much for the wonderful job you did house sitting for us and looking after not only Polly and Hamish but much much more. Thank you for your willingness and concern for Karyn’s Mum, your idea of the bag for her papers has been a real winner. Your care of our house and then doing ironing and washing was again beyond what we expected and not necessary but our sincere thanks for doing this. Also we didn’t want you to clean up everything, you work every day and you were doing us a big favour! We were just so pleased that the dogs had company and someone who cared about them!
As a result of you looking after our home, our dogs us and Karyn’s mother, we were able to relax and really have a great restful holiday at a magical place we have you to thank for too! Please find attached a gift voucher which is just a small way we can express to you our appreciation for everything including the wine, chocolates, cyclamen and carnations.
Thank you so much, I hope we see you soon coming back to use the studio!
Warm regards
Dave

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REFERENCE FOR PAULINE H----
1/7/14
Pauline house sat for my husband and I in April 20014 for 9 days. Her main responsibilities were to take care of our dog Bogart (including twice daily walks) and a small garden and general house sitting.
Her profile and references really stood out from the rest because she provided all relevant information you really want to know when trying to find a house sitter (especially the first time as was the case for us).
Pauline was very helpful, thoughtful and respectful in all interactions (via email & phone) from the outset. She had thought of so many questions to ask and check in with us about, she made us feel like we were in good hands, she was someone we could trust and a true professional. There were often things we hadn’t thought of ourselves, somewhat due to lack of time from dealing with 3 young kids.
Right from our first planned phone call to prepare for the day of our departure, she was very focused on how she could best support us with our exit plan. I felt I could immediately trust Pauline in my home shortly into the conversation. When I explained our place wouldn’t be perfectly clean, but mostly tidy due to busy family and work life, she commented “so it’s a family home, not a display home” and made me relax immediately.
Pauline had to manage a hard situation where one of our front door locks broke while we were away. The way she dealt with it was very responsible and helpful, getting our neighbour to double check the problem as requested by us and then arranging a locksmith. She paid for this upfront and was fine about my replaying her after we got home from our holiday, a week later.
When we got home the house appeared as if a professional cleaner had come in. She had fresh flowers on the table, and it was such a pleasure to return to. Pauline really extends herself and goes above and beyond to really care for your place responsibly and respectfully. When I think of Pauline, I think “peace of mind”, which is just what you really want when you can’t be home yourself.
There are other examples of Pauline excelling herself I could speak about on request but suffice to say she did a great job, and we would thoroughly recommend her.

Sonya F
Sydney

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HOUSE & PET SITTING REFERENCE- Pauline H____ (Feb 2015)

I highly recommend Pauline as a Pet/House sitter, after she took exceptional care of our 6yo Golden Retriever.
She diligently discussed his needs prior to staying and it was clear to me that they bonded closely.
She took him for lots of walks (which he loves!!!) and kept him company.

In particular, I was impressed with Pauline’s dog training experience.
My dog is often afraid of low flying aircraft, however Pauline researched and applied techniques that led to a marked improvement.

The house was left immaculately clean, and I will be asking Pauline to return in the future.

Andrew.
Southbank, Melbourne

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To Homeowners

I recently had the pleasure of Pauline as a house and pet sitter. She is just like a fairy godmother!
I chose Pauline for lots of reasons, but mainly because she took particularly care to ask thoughtful, insightful questions to understand the special needs of my elderly dog. She took fantastic care of not only my special boy, Jethro and my young, scallywag cat – but also of a local neighbourhood dog who had lost its way.
I was welcomed home by flowers and a potted plant left by Pauline, as well as a garden that had obviously seen some unexpected attention during my absence.
Pauline left the house as she had found it, with all the linen washed and drying on the line. She went to great lengths to not use many of my supplies, even though I had told to use whatever she wanted.
Pauline really is like a fairy godmother, and I am very happy to vouch for her as a highly capable, competent and caring house/pet sitter and would have no hesitation in welcoming her back.
Jill,
Tasmania.
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Pauline visited our house on 2 occasions prior to taking on the care of our 2 Kelpies while we were away for a week. She communicated with us while we were away which we greatly appreciated. The house was in perfect order on our return, just as we had left it. We were lucky to have Pauline and would recommend her as a house sitter.
House care
Garden care
Pet care
Communication

Jane
Point Lonsdale (2025)
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Dale
• date_range8 Jul to 12 Jul 2025 - 4 nights

• location_Maleny QLD
Their review of you
Pauline took great care of buddy and left the house in an immaculate state . Communications were easy and I felt at ease the whole time I was away. it’s 5 stars all round from me . Thanks for everything Pauline :)

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Byanda–Vanwillow Cattery
KELVIN GROVE QLD 4059

6 March 2014
TO THOSE CONSIDERING EMPLOYING
PAULINE H____ TO HOUSE- AND PET-SIT
I have known Pauline H____ since 1990 when I purchased my first Turkish Van cat. Pauline was an established, registered and well-respected breeder of Turkish Vans and was kind enough to allow me to use one of her stud cats for my first mating. queens.
I have visited, and stayed with, Pauline at her home in Victoria and stayed also at her late mother’s residence with her. Pauline’s care for her animals was impeccable and loving. She had endless patience with animals (both cats and dogs) that were shy, rescued, or ageing. Where necessary, she regained ownership of kittens she had sold when those who had purchased them could no longer care for the animals in a manner of which Pauline approved. Pauline exhibited great patience in ensuring that these animals regained their confidence and returned to being happy and satisfying pets One of these returned Turkish Vans remained with Pauline for many years, dying only last year at the age of 19 years (an outstanding life span for a cat). She was an ethical and professional breeder who concern was always for the animals and not for any potential income.
I have no doubt that Pauline can be entrusted with the care of any domestic animal and the home in which it resides. I recommend her most highly for employment in such situations at any time.
Please do not hesitate to contact me by telephone at the number listed above should you require any further information.

BERNADETTE _______ (BSc, DipEd, BEdSt, MSc, FACE)
Groups 1, 2 and 4 Judge with the Australian Cat Federation Inc.
& Retired CEO, Tertiary Entrance Procedures Authority, Queensland

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Hi Pauline

Please feel free to give our number to other house owners if you feel it's appropriate. Happy to talk with them.

I seriously just don't know how you could be any better a house sitter Pauline. Truly, you went above and beyond for us with everything, and it was amazing and deeply appreciated. :) And of course, you were so forgiving of the shemozzle that was our household at the time.

I hope you're well and still enjoying housesitting and your time off from work.

Hope to see you again sometime!
Carlene

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Hi Pauline,

Sorry it has taken me a few days to send this e-mail. I was quite unwell when I arrived home Sunday night.

I just wanted to say how lovely it was coming home to the house looking so clean, and CC has barely stopped purring. I have never heard so much purring come from one cat. I took your advice and ordered him a cat bed online yesterday so he will enjoy sitting in the sun off the ground. I noticed he was out on the lawn today and took him out a chair which he seemed to enjoy. We used to have a lot of cane toads at our old house, and he seems to keep away from them but thank you for being vigilant. Thank you for all your weeding efforts too, you have done a great job and certainly went above and beyond and saved me from having to do it when I got home.

I feel so fortunate to have had you looking after the house and CC, and as I mentioned I was really comfortable knowing you were here.

Thank you so much for everything Pauline and I am so glad you enjoyed being in Cairns.

Kind regards,

Michelle.

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