Maureen recommends finding a housesitter after losing her beloved Cat at a cattery

I recently went on a holiday to visit family in Melbourne and put my beloved cat into a cattery. I thought 10 days it would be OK to leave her at a cattery. Unfortunately she caught cat flu and after a lot of veterinary care - had to be put to sleep. If you love your animals, as I do, I encourage people to find a house sitter, as I had done previously in the year for a 7 week spell - and came home with my pet still well and the house in order. All I lost then was one plant as opposed to my dear cat. Regards Maureen (maurs02>

Housesit filled recently:
Perth WA Australia
September 22nd till October 2nd. I have a comfortable, roomy 2 bedroom unit in Bassendean with lovely outdoor courtyard dining area. I have an old cat (friendly and takes to people). It is an easy care house and property in a good location. Reverse air conditioning in the lounge and main bedroom. Gas heating in lounge. Would like a clean person who will feed the cat etc. Unit close to river and amenities. Kind regards Maureen

Las Vegas homeonwer makes lifelong friends with house sitters

"We have just completed our first House sitting experience (as the homeowners) and wanted to thank you for the service you provided. We not only found the perfect home sitters, but have made wonderful new friends. Your service gave us exectly the information we needed to select the right sitters and we could not be happier.

Thank you for what you do. It is an amazing service. We will strongly recommend you to our friends. " UserName: rmromito

Housesit Las Vegas, Nevada
Beautiful home in gated community. Heated pool and spa in large xeriscaped yard overlooking desert arroyo park and trails. Fully equipped home gymnasium, home theatre and central music system. Two affectionate indoors-only Burmese cats will need love and attention. 20 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip.

Sitters found for Scottish cottage in beautiful area with lovely coastline

"Just to thank you for this great service - we have housesitters for six months at a time, and the experience has been mutually valuable and great fun! ..."

Housecarers Username kilchristcc

Housesit:
Country = Scotland City = Campbeltown region = argyll

An opportunity to stay in a beautiful area with lovely coastline, in return for some cleaning/caretaking in four small holiday cottages. Preferably couple with transport, rural location.

Housesitter found for Palea Fokaia Attiki (coast outside Athens) Greece

We found a very nice young couple to housesit for us and we are delighted. We hope that all will go well with them. They seem very responsible and able and we feel very
fortunate to have found them through your site.

We thank you once again as do Angus, Halifax, and Frederico, our 3 dogs!

We wish you the best of luck in all your endeavors and God Bless You!


Sincerely,
Fran UserName = halifax

We are looking for a handy couple not requiring internet to housesit for eco home with its back to over 2,500 acres of farmland & hunting grounds and 2 kms. in from beaches and marina. It is slightly secluded, newly built, simple home on 2 floors, has a backup generator, stick shift for all local errands and our 3 dogs. It's on 1/3 acre with manually controlled watering for most trees which need supervision. We are 1'20" from Athens with bus and 15" from Sounion

DreamPainter appreciated by homeowner

Karen stayed at my house for three weeks while I was on holiday.

When I met her for the first time, I was immediately impressed by her lovely kind and happy nature. She did a fantastic job of looking after my two dogs and the house was well taken care of and left in an immaculate condition.

You may rest assured when choosing Karen to look after your home and pets.

Feel free to contact me on 0401 702 654 if you would like further information.

Lynette (nettie01) Upper North Shore Sydney

View profile for sitter Dream Painter

Perfect match found for Brisbane Housesit

I would like to say just how great we found this service and as it was the first time for us we didn't know what to expect and we were pleasantly surprised. The quality of the sitters that we interviewed and checked the references was tops and I will not hesitate to use your service or recommend it to others.
Cheers
Yvonne & Don (nes1928)

Housesit:

We are a retired couple who spent the last 12 months travelling Australia and still have more to see. We have no pets but do require some gardening. Our home is a comfortable, clean and spacious 2 story home. Situated in a very quite picturesque parkland area and is within walking distance to the train station.

There is a bike and walking track within 200 mtrs. We are less than 1 km from the main highway that will take you to either North to the Sunshine coast or South to the Gold coast.

In just over an hour you can be at all the fun theme parks or golden beaches that Queensland is famous for. After this short trip we will be off to see Europe for 3 months and if it suited you could stay on and then house sit until early March 2008.

Sitter looking for another sitter to share sitting responsiblities long term

WANTED....partner for long term house sitting
opportunities


I am looking for someone to partner with mostly for
longer term house sits. From my house sitting
experience, I find that the obligation to the home
owner is fine for short terms but can be rather
restrictive for long term. During many long term sits,
especially the international ones, I would like to be
able to travel back to visit family members
occasionally or even travel to different places for
short times. If I had a partner with a similar desire
and live style as mine, we could work together and
cover for each other.


A bit about myself. I am a 57 year old retiree who has
an adventureous spirt. I recently returned from 2
years in Morocco in the Peace Corps working with small
businesses. During my working career, I was the CEO of
a sizeable manufacturing company in Virginia. My
management skills and wide range of experiences lend
themselves to this type of service and lifestyle. I've
completed a background check and am considered to be
very dependable, reliable and trustworthy. I can
supply references and recomondations upon request.


If this situation interests you, please contact via my profile


View profile and contact sitter lovehouse

Housesitter Orchard47 makes many new friends

"Thankyou for conducting this wonderfull service. I have enjoyed many fabulous housesits, cared for many loving animals and made many new friends.

Keep up the great work.

Regards Lynette (orchard47)

View profile for house sitter orchard47

Siiter found for beautiful Matarau, about 15kms from downtown Whangarei NZ

I love the Maori town names in New Zealand.

"Once again we have quickly found a house sitter through this site. Many thanks. "
Homeowner UserName: kandcw

We are looking for a house sitter to look after our house and two dogs in Matarau, about 15kms from downtown Whangarei. We have four acres, but dont expect anyone to do work outside. All we are after is someone to keep the dogs company each night! We leave 26th October, and we return on the 18th November. We are very flexible for people to stay for a few days either side of our absence if necessary. If you are interested, let us know and we can send you as much information as you require.

House sitter TimandGale report in from Bahamas - comfy small cottage in the palms r

Hey Ian

We thought we would thank you guys for offering a great service

We are currently very comfy in a small cottage in the palms right on the edge of the
Atlantic side of Eleuthera, Bahamas - housecareing for a guy who likes to fly off in his Cessna now and then
while we hang out and feed his dogs...

Thanks again (TimandGale)

View profile for sitters TimandGale - Bahamas

House sitting Kari like a whirlwind from Oklahoma to Kansas

Wanted to take a moment to say "Thank you!".

When I first joined Housecarers.com I wasn't sure exactly what I would find in the way of house/petsits and figured it would only be an occasional thing here and there.

I've been overwhelmed by the number of positions offered both on the site and to me directly! It's been amazing and so very hard to choose sometimes as there are an abundance of exciting opportunities and wonderful people, both homeowners & house carers, that use your website. It's fantastic!

I'm coming to the end of one house-sit here in the next couple weeks and the family has asked if I can return next summer again! In addition, right after this one ends I fly to my next petsit in Oklahoma and then one directly after that for seven months in Kansas! It's a whirlwind and I'm loving it! Many thanks to you for making it possible! Sincerely, Karri (kareezdreamz)

View profile for whirlwind housesitter kareezdreamz

So Many Places to go in this World - and to return to ...sitter CaringCarol"

We love being a member of housecarers.com. We have done 2 housesits and are going to return to both places this winter. After that we want to try different places so keep the information coming. We are always in awe at how many places there are to go in this world. House sitter CaringCarol

View profile for House Sitters CaringCarol

Retiree house sitter rvbernard sits in homes around the world

I continue to be so grateful for this website and your service to housesitters like me and the people requiring our services. I continue to receive offers to housesit and am spending my retirement housesitting in various homes in Canada, the US and Germany. I haven't broken into UK and Australia yet..but soon.

View profile for retired house sitter rvbernard

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU from Celeste in Carmichael CA

Thank you Ian, I filled our housesitting dates for January '08. We just had our housesitters from Chicago for a week this month. They were wonderful ! As always, your website is awesome! We have become good friends with our housesitter from January '07. She was wonderful, as well. I will re-activate my membership on our next travel. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU !!!Celeste

Housesit: Carmichael CA
The dates are 1/6/08 to 2/3/08-we have a time share in Cabo San Lucas & love the month there. We have a beautiful home in Carmichael, California (Sacramento)across from a park, 1 block from the American River Bike Trail, for walking,jogging,cycling, etc. Centrally located for all touring San Francisco, Lake Tahoe. We have an 8 yr old male Sheltie & a 2 yr old female Tuxedo cat that need loving care. They don't do well in the kennel.Only pet lovers need apply

Sitter matilmatil connects with 3 months Montreal sit

Ian


Thanks so much for the quick reply.

I am off to Montreal Canada for three months thanks to a connection I made through your site!!!!!

Thanks for the gift of connection.

Sincerely,
Nancy (username matilmatil)

View profile for house sitter Nancy - matilmatil

Winner of NavMan draw at the Sydney Retirement and Lifestyle expo

We are pleased to announce the winner of the NavMAN F20 drawn at 3.00 PM Sunday 27 July 2007 at our stand at the 2007 Sydney Retirement and Lifstyle expo.

The winner was still at the expo when we announced the draw - so photos will follow. It was not a requirement to be there - just another lucky chance.

Drum Roll .... The winner is ....

Suzanne Wilson from Plumpton a suburb os Sydney.. Pics of lucky winner to follow.

You can view the draw/prize details below:

Sydney Retirement and Lifestyle Housecarers draw for F20 NavMan in car navigation

GrandmaLou has fun in retirement and bonds with Grand daughter

"We have loved our house sitting experiences.

This has given us an opportunity to bond with our granddaughter (we live in Michigan, she lives in Oregon) and we have made new friends and have had a chance to explore the beautiful State of Oregon.

We never could have imagined retirement would be this much fun. Thanks, housecarers.com for the service you provide."

Louisa (GrandmaLou)

View sitters profile for GrandmaLou

Sitter found for housesit on Mary' River1 mile from Oregon State University and downtown Corvallis

"We have found a very nice couple through your website who will house sit for us for the time we will be away. Thank you very much for an easy to use system."
.. Maxine (ovely6acres)

Housesit: Southwest Corvallis Benton Oregon CountyDistrict

My husband and I are planning to be gone for two months in the winter 07/08. We have a lovely 1900 sq ft 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on 6 acres, only 1 mile from Oregon State University and downtown Corvallis.

We prefer a mature individual or couple. One or two children would also be ok. The house has an open floor plan with lots of windows. The outside area contains a walnut/hazelnut grove, three huge old sequoia trees, a large back 2-acre field, which can flood during heavy rains.(No danger to the house.) We border the Marys River.

We have a cat that needs some attention. The outside gardens do not need much care during the winter months. Our landscaping is low maintainance Even in the winter, rain or not, we enjoy a lovely space

Sitters Robinsnest sits in Turin Italy then Cornwell UK

Dear Ian

Just to let you know we had two very successful house sits. One in Italy and one in Cornwall. We had some great moments with the animals and met some really lovely people.

We have just renewed for another year.

Thanks for the great service you provide.

Cheers

Rob .. Busselton W.A. (Robinsnest)

View profile for house sitters Robinsnest

Home Security with fingerprint scanning

A new technology allows entry to home via figerprint scanning. And the house sitters fingerprints can be easily added in.

A lot of standard household locks (including deadlocks) can be beaten within minutes by professional thieves, so this is an interesting development. You can find out more about this available now technology below.

Fingertip unlocks doors - Keeping your Victoria Real Estate Safe. And grant access to your house sitter

Travel and Explore through house sitting.

House sitting is a great way to really experience a country and become part of
the community.

Here is a list of current house sitting opportunities by country

House Sitting  Opportunities France

House Sitting  Opportunities New Zealand

House Sitting  Opportunities Australia

House Sitting  Opportunities Canada

House Sitting  Opportunities England

House Sitting Opportunities South Africa

House Sitting  Opportunities United States

House Sitting  Opportunities Italy

Housesitter found for Italian farm house Umbertide, Perugia, Appennine Mountains

"I have had a wonderful response, and have chosen an excellent match for my home. Thank you for the dynamics of your site. I'm sure I'll be posting other dates in the future. " homeowner italiansky

Housesit:4 months from Nov 2007

"Casacce 1" is a large farmhouse that is located in the countryside, 2 1/2 hours north of Rome, and 2 1/2 hours from Florence. The hill towns of Gubbio, Assisi, and Perugia are 30 minutes away.

Within the farmhouse is a self contained apartment with 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, full kitchen, dining room, and sitting room, that is heated with a large wood burning stove with the chimney extending through the atrium to both levels. We are a family of artists, thus there are paintings and pottery to be enjoyed. Cable, a washing machine and fire wood are included.

The market-town of Umbertide is 3km, so a bike or car may be necessary. Our needs are to make sure the house is always secure, and the cat is fed. The land - 1 hectare- should not need much upkeep this time of year, and I have a person that will come to take care of any household situation that may need repair. Last winter was very mild, but it is possible to have some snow, as this location is in the Appennine Mts., though the house is ground level with the main road.

Retired House sitters Maanpa experience a different part of Australian then land sit near family

"We have been very pleased with our 2 housesits received through you,one at Albury WA, for 2 months which enabled us to visit that area where we had never been and now at Maitland NSW which is close to our family."

House sitters maanpa

View profile for retired house sitting couple maanpa

Housesitter found for Northern suburbs Wellington New Zealnd

"We were quite overwhelmed by the number of people who quickly replied to our advertisement.

We have made a choice, ---- but found this to be SO dificult, as everyone sounded just lovely. However, we have made contact with a delightful lady, and we feel very confident that our house sitting arrangement with her will be good for both parties.


HouseCarers.com is a wonderful service, and we feel that it is very well set up and professionally run. We would certainly use it again, and would recomend it to anyone. "

Housesit Wellington NZ 5 weeks:

We are looking for a mature, responsible house sitter for 38 days, while we are on holiday. We have a 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, situated in the Northern suburb hills above Wellington.

The sitter would need to be fit, or have their own vehicle, as the nearby bus service is limited, and the train is a 20 minute walk away. The sitter's main task would be to look after and love our 17 year old, very spoilt cat.

Also to water pot plants, and the garden as necessary. We require a non smoker, and someone who will not be bringing other pets into the home

Housesitter Found for very pleasant, and historic city of Angoulême Southern France not far from Cognac

"Hi! Just to let you know I've found a housesitter in less than 24 hours, so I'm very pleased with your service." UserName = Oliver'smum

Housesit: 3-4 weeks Soyaux Angoulême, Poitou Charentes Charente, France

I live in southwest France, in the last street on the edge of the very pleasant and historic city of Angoulême.

The house (small, 3 bedrooms) jhas a biggish garden front and back, mostly grass and fruit trees. Cross the road, and you have immediate access to miles and miles of open country with footpaths.

I have one friendly Jack Russell, Oliver, and two cats whom you may not see much of except at mealtimes. the bus stops outside my gate to go into Angoulême centre, where there are all the shops you could possibly want, and there's a hypermarket 5 mins away by car. Angoulême is handy for visiting Cognac, la Rochelle, Poitiers, the Dordogne, etc., and has an equestrian centre, aquacentre, canoeing/kayaking, and just behind my house (where children would be welcome if they're dog- trained) there's a park with kids' games, attainable on foot and wihout going on the road. Oh, and I have both British and French TV!

Sitter found for sit 10 minutes from the beach Vera Florida

Thank you so much for the membership. I have already found 2 housesitters who are interested in my situation and one who probably is really what I want! I am so excited! Thank you for this service and thank you for the extra emails providing me with legal/practical information about the arrangement. Thanks thanks thanks.

MARY User Name idylls (Vera Florida)

Seaforth Homeowner Servicer and Burmese cats, gets a very satsifactory response

Dear Ian,
Just a quick note to thank you for an excellent and effective service. We registered with you to find a house sitter about 10 days ago and were amazed by the quality and number of resposes.

We have met with a selected few, interviewed one, checked references and that person will now complete our housesit in August.
A very satisfactory response.
Regards,Daryl (Servicer)

Housesit : Seaforth NSW Australia
Easy to care for modern house with little garden.Does have swimming pool, easy to maintain. We have two burmese cats, very affectionate, again easy to care for. We are close to beaches of Manly, Curl Curl Dee Why, and close to bus service. Would need to be non smoker and have references,

GoWithFlow finds sitter to operate gas crabcooker with ocean views

"Position has now been filled. Very happy with the service and the quality of the applicants, any number of them would have been suitable.

I have removed the ad and all applicants have been replied to. Thank you for an excellent service. We will most definitely be using it again in the future. Many thanks and kind regards, Sue (GoWithFlow)"

Housesit: 6 weeks Mandurah WA Australia
We live in a beautiful part of Western Australia, the house is situated on over half and acre with ocean views.

The gardens are established and a lot of it is a woodland type garden which is self maintaining.Although the meandering pathways which wander through the garden need regular sweeping (good exercise) Some is more formal but mostly easy care. The lawns are mowed regularly by a paid mowerman.

We have no pets except 3 fish in a fishpond out in the garden. These look after themselves and live on insects etc which have the misfortune to fly or fall in. The garden supports a large number of lovely birds. The house is two story ( the top section will be closed off while we are away) and the downstairs is easily maintained as carpet is restricted to the 3 bedrooms and study and a small living room, the rest is quarry tiles. A very large country kitchen with all mod cons is a delight to work in if you are that way inclined (as I am) and the outdoor living area is huge with all weather living area complete with an outdoor kitchen including fridge and sink for great outdoor living and entertaining.

Mandurah is famous for its crabs which are easily caught from a boat or by walking along the estuary foreshore shallows with scoop nets. We have a gas crabcooker which gets plenty of use in the summer months.

The ocean is close for fishing, walking and swimming.There is also a sealed walking/bike track along the estuary foreshore. There is all the usual entertainment in Mandurah, which is 14 kms from Dawesville, performing arts where artists both local and international and from the Eastern States perform; movies numerous restaurants and cafes, fabulous fresh seafood, sporting clubs of all kinds and of course the estuary, river and ocean providing plently of wonderful tourist type drives.

Tourist launches operate out of Mandurah and a pleasant afternoon can be spent touring the magnificent estuary and canal developments viewing multi million dollar houses. The area is obviously a tourist hotspot, but our corner of it is relatively quiet and very pleasant, and makes for a wonderful life style

House Sitter found for 5 beautifully wooded acres about a half-hour from Baltimore

"Thank you very much for your service. We have found a house/dog sitter and appreciate the process you have set up. ... homeowner chesbay1

House sit : 1 month Highland Baltimore Maryland/ DC or

We are seeking a mature, responsible house/dog sitter for the month of June 2007. Our house is a 3 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath home, located on 5 beautifully wooded acres about a half-hour from Baltimore, an hour from Washington, D.C. and about 45 minutes from Annapolis.

It's got a great back porch, with a hammock, overlooking the woods. It's a perfect home and location for someone who wants to explore the greater Washington-Baltimore metropolitan area. The subway to Washington DC is about 20 minutes away and, from there, it's about a half-hour non-rush hour ride to the Capitol.

There's an electric dog fence surrounding the property and our pet is free to roam, so he doesn't need walking or require any special care other than feeding, water and some occasional scratching and attention. There's also an above-ground pool on the yard that you would be welcome to use. It doesn't require much maintenance, other than occasionally putting in some chlorine and d.e.

We have a lawn cutting service which comes in periodically -- so there is no property maintenance required. It would be helpful if you had a car since the closest store or bus service is about a mile away. Although there are no bike paths, the area is very popular with bicyclists because of the semi-rural nature of the community and the scenic rolling hills.

Actress from Prisoner TV series links up with wonderful, reliable, trutworthy, people

Greetings,
I am Val Lehman, the actor who played Bea Smith in the internationally acclaimed Australian Television Series. 'Prisoner' . I just wanted to let everyone contemplating engaging a house sitter know this: I have twice used House Carers.Com, to find someone to look after my home and my animals whilst I worked overseas, and interstate.

On both occasions I've had wonderful, reliable, trutworthy, people who came in to my home and cared for everything beautifully. I am so grateful to House Carers for this service, and wish to thank them for their level of responsibility, and commitment to providing a most valuable and worthwhile service.

val-lehman.com Official Val Lehman Website | Top Dog | Bea Smith | Prisoner Cell Block H

Dunedin NZ LuckyGrandma finds the perfect match

My ad has been very successful/ It has been difficult to choose which one to have! All the repsonses seem to be of a very high calibre, so your site is excellent. Thank you. Also thank you for the excellent Agreement form.

LuckyGrandma

Housesit:
7.2 weeks Maori Hill, Dunedin Otago New Zealand

2-bedroom townhouse in Maori Hill; bus stop across the road; handy to shops, Dr, cafe, library bus, church, schools. Walking distance to university and town (all down hill);attractive walks. To care and love one small 10 year old dog; sleeps a lot; loves company, intelligent!

judyandtrevor Dont have to impose on friends and find a great win-win with a sitter

"We are very impressed with your website and the service it
provides.

It is so nice not to have to put out friends and families to look after our domestic responsibilities and to have someone with a reciprocal circumstance.

We are looking forward to meeting our first sitters shortly and have already established friendly communication with them. We will certainly use your services again in the future and have recommended it to friends. "
Thanks, Judy and Trevor

UserName: judyandtrevor

Housesit: Terrigal, Central Coast NSW Australia 1 month AvailFromDate = 2007-06-23
Large, comfortable house on 1 hectare, 2-3 kms from beach, Terrigal township; free rent in exchange for feeding of wild birds and pet peahen, gold fish.

Vancouver Island, British Columbia, 4 months Housesit filled

"Thank you for the wonderfull service you people provide for people like me. Thanks once again and will look forward to use your service again in the future."

.... Regards Findme

House sit filled: Qalicum British Columbia Canada
MY WIFE&MYSELF ARE LOOKING FOR A HOUSITTER FOR ABOUT 4-5 MONTHS STARTING NOV1/07 TO MARCH 31/08. OUR HOME IS A 3BR RANCHER WITH 3 BATH + DEN WITH 2 CAR GARAGE .WE ARE ON 3 ACRES OF LAND AND HAVE A DETACHED SHOP AND STUDIO, ON WELL AND SEPTIC SYSTEM. OUR HOME IS LOCATED IN THE PARKSVILLE/QUALICUM AREA ON VANCOUVER ISLAND. THE HOUSE IS HEATED WITH ELECTRIC HEAT OR IF YOU SO DESIRE YOU COULD BURN WOOD IN THE WOOD HEATER IN THE LIVING ROOM WHICH WE DO MOST OF THE TIME. WE ARE LOOKING FOR A COUPLE WHO DO NOT SMOKE OR HAVE ANT PETS AND WOULD ASK THEIR GUEST NOT TO SMOKE OR BRING PETS INTO THE HOUSE, BUT WOULD TREAR OUR HOME WITH T.L.C. KEEPING IT CLEAN AND TIDY BUT ALSO ENJOYING IT LIKE YOUR OWN HOME. WHAT WE WANT FOR THIS IS THAT YOU PAY THE FOLLOWING UTILITIES PER MONTH A)HYDRO BILL-DEPENDING ON USAGE B)TELEPHONE INCLUDES 500 MINUTES LONG DISTANCE FIXED RATE $73.49 C STAR CHOICE SATALITE TV FIXED RATE $49.69+RENTALS D) INTERNET SERVICE FIXED RATE $33.85 E) WOOD BURNED $100.00 PER CORD F) PICK UP MAIL AT MAIL BOX

Byron Bay, North Coast NSW Australia homeowner takes the worry out of travels .

"Hi,

Just wanted to let you know that we have been wonderfully overwhelmed with responses to our post from all over the globe and are now very happily going through them all to find the most suitable.

We hope to have achieved that by the end of May.
Thankyou so much for your service it has really taken the worry out of our travels and we are so happy with the very quick replies. Will remain active until then just in case. Many thanks PANDPH.

House sit: Lismore Heights, NSW Australia

Professional couple need reliable, tidy and quiet house sitter/s who love dogs (we have two large but lovable, one quiet, one boistrous), is able to handle/walk/cuddle them everyday. We travel two to three times a year and need someone we can trust to look after the house and our furry kids. Our business is also attached to our home so we need someone willing to take bookings and deal with phone calls. We are on a main road 30 minutes from beaches (Byron Bay, Lennox Head) and a few minutes from major shopping areas. References essential.

Sitter found for just across the Rio Grande river from the Albuquerque Zoo

"Thank you so very much for your Homesitting Service! We advertised with you and quickly located a quite suitable sitter in Albuquerque with whom we feel comfortable establishing a continuing relationship to be with our home and animals."
.... UserName jpdoug7678

Housesit: Vecinos del Bosque, Albuquerque New Mexico United States

Looking for a quiet, non-smoking person to stay with our three cats, small dog and three parakeets, water the yards and plants, keep the house clean for 23 days, beginning 30 July, 2007. We are in a quiet southwest valley neighborhood, just across the Rio Grande river from the Albuquerque Zoo, Tingley Park, Old Town, Biological Park and Aquarium. Yard has large trees, lawns, flowers, carport parking for sitter's car. Home is carpeted, has library, sunroom, high-speed computer connection, easy to care for

Globe-hopping House Sitters reports in

Last year we had two great housesitting trips to Hawaii and then to London.

All of our friends ask how they can do this too. We have given the web site to lots of people Thanks,Monte and Lois (username metlat)

phillyqualified get a good report from Kiwi semi-rural homeowners muscrat

We found housesitters phillyqualified to be extremely reliable and professional during the two week period that he housesat for us. He looked after our dog wonderfully. She missed him for several days once he left. He also cared
for our cats and chooks. We came home to a clean, tidy and organised home
and well cared for plants.

Phillyqualified met s a couple of weeks before the house sitting assignment and as soon as we met him we felt he was honest, professional and very capable of caring for our home. While we were away he kept us updated on our pets and let us know everything was going well. Which gave us peace of mind and we were able to travel without any concerns for home.

We have no
hesitations in recommending phillyqualified to other people looking for a caring, reliable, honest housesitter. Phillyqualified is excellent with animals and obviously lavished attention (without spoiling) our dog. If we require a housesitter in the future we will certainly hope that phillyqualified is available again. Regards Kim (homeowners muscrat)

"Housesitter required to look after house, 2 cats, dog and chickens in semi-rural location. 2 minutes drive from Otaki, 20 mins from Paraparaumu. Includes feeding animals, collecting food for chooks from local cafe (car available) and walking dog as well as general care of property."

Housecarers acquires housesitting.com

We have just acquired the domain name housesitting.com This domain name will route to our website www.housecarers.com

So if you are at a dinner party and can't quite remember the name housecarers.com (or maybe your or the listener have had a drink too many) - just think housesitting and add the .com or .com.au as we have housesitting.com.au too.

They all end up at the same place for housesitting worldwide.

Trust - alive and well reports sitters jb4440

Wow what a great experience this has been for us.

We have managed to secure house sitting for the duration of our stay in Perth, Western Austrlia. This whole service basically boils down to people trusting people and it's a wonderful feeling to know that 'trust' has not withered away in this materialistic money hungry world that we have created.

Thank you for this great service and we hope to be able to return the favour to others in future. housesitters jb4440

Dog Lover Dilema solved: finds alternative to costly dog boarding kennel.

Would just like to say Thankyou for your site.
As a first time user, it is wonderful to know that a service like this exists.

I was in a real dilema about leaving my dogs in kennels and the cost involved when a friend just happened to mention getting a housesitter and here I am.

Username:klaray

Housesit: Mothar Mountain, southeast of Gympie Queensland Australia
We have a 9 acre property which is 15 minutes drive from Gympie township,40 minutes drive to Noosa or Tin Can Bay about 50 minutes Drive to Rainbow Beach and 2 hours drive North of Brisbane. We have 2 very old dogs, a German Shepperd and a Rottweiller, both very friendly, who need very little looking after but do need someone to be with them for company while we are away.

We also have 6 free range chickens that will need to be tended to. We have a few garden beds that will need watering and the lawns will need mowing,some with a ride on mower and some with a hand motor mower. Half of our water supply is pumped from our dam and the rest is rainwater.

There is not a great deal of work to do around the property so there will be plenty of time to take in some of the sights in the area and just enjoy the peace and tranquility. We have lots of birdlife to enjoy also.

Sitter found for Brisbane QLD house sit opposite an egret colony

Thank you once again for your service. We have now chosen one and deactivated our search. We appreciate this website, as it seems to bring the results every time.

Home owner sandra Redlands Victoria Point Brisbane Queensland Australia

We are looking for a mature person or couple to look after our cat, and water plants, we have bore water so this should not be a problem. We are in a lovely location,it's a modern home, close to the water, and opposite an egret colony

Housecarers in the press

The housecarers.com house sitting agreement is featured in the following story. House sitting is going main stream, with more and more people recognising this win-win solution for accommodation.

Yes, You Can Live Rent-Free At kiplinger.com, Personal Finance and Business Advice.

Merseysiders connect with the right housesitter and released for holiday

Dear Housecarers.

Thank you very much for your invaluable service. We had 2 answers in less than 24hrs and both were ideal, unfortunately we could only use one. Now we can go for our holiday to England knowing that our house and animals are being well looked after. We will certainly use your services again next year. Thanks again
.... Merseysiders

Housesit Glen Innes NSW Australia:
We live in a semi- rural area in the New England Tablelands, in the heart of Celtic Country. We are 9kms out of town, just 5 mins by car. Our home is a 100 year old federation style dwelling with a separate s/c cottage which sleeps 3. Our 'kids' are 2 Maltese, 2 long hair Chihuahuas and 1 Llasa Apso, who really do think that they are kids.

They don't need walks etc, just lots of cuddles and loving. We also have 3 cage birds. There are cottage gardens, which you can feel free to potter about in, and a ride-on mower for the lawns, if you are able. Would prefer non-smoker.

Sitter memmereof3 saves thousands travelling New England

I love this site. It has saved me thousands of dollars. In the past year I've been able to spend approximately 3 months traveling to New England and housessiting. The Boston area is where my family live and this is a great way to come from CAL and visit often. Thanks so much.

We've used your site to advertise for housesitters in our Sacramento area home and have been very satisfied with the response and caliber of the people using this site. I highly recommend Housecarers.com to all my friends and family... Janice

View profile for house sitter memmereof3

House Sitters twotravellers share their experiences and house sitting plans

Hi Ian

You recently asked for an update on our current house sitting status.

When we returned home from our UK house sit and touring our household situation changed dramatically. We had lived in a granny flat at my Dad's for eight years but he has decided to go into a retirement villa. Although he travels with us a lot, he has found his current house too large when we are away. As a result we are temporarily homeless.

We have bought a villa for ourselves but if we rent it out for 12 months we are eligible for an interest only, business loan. So finding house sits became a real priority, then out of the blue Len and Christine contacted us ( via housecarers ) and offered us a house sit. It was perfect timing as we have now been able to put our household effects in storage - less clothes. Every thing went into storage on the 12th and we moved down here on the 15th of March.

( 1 ) Currently we are on a small holding, about 25 minutes from Bathurst.
It is terribly dry here and I have the job of trying to keep the extensive gardens alive.

We have two rescue dogs - Poppy ( a sheltie, about 11 ) and Bella ( A kelpie cross, about 7 or 8 ) to care for. In addition we have 7 birds ( in avaries ), two turtles and numerous wild birds that come for a feed. The owners have a fairly orderly system - but that is good because we know when to do what and can adjust our touring around this. We are here for four weeks, until the 16th of April.

The home owners have a lovely neighbour called Gwenda and she has had me to dinner as well as taking me out to a native plant field day yesterday. Gwenda has a fabulous garden and has already supplied us with fresh tomatoes, fresh beans, pickles and other great food.

( 2 ) We go home to camp out at Dad's place for three weeks, have a garage sale for him and move him into his new place. We then leave for the USA on May the 5th or 6th to do two house sits - each for three weeks. One in Norfolk, Virginia ( 3 cats ), then one in Kentucky , Tennesee ( a two year old Pomeranian ),

( 3 ) We have then been invited to stay with friends in Michigan for a week - having a real American 4th of July.

( 4 ) We have about a week free once we fly on to the UK - we may go back to Ireland

( 5 ) July the 15th, start a 5 week house sit in Liverpool ( one cat called Kali ). We always arrive a few days early to meet the animals and get to know the house and its quirks. We met the home owner last December ( 2006 ) when we were doing our London house sit. Her sister now lives in Sydney and we are meeting up for dinner when we finish the housesit here in Bathurst.

( 4 ) Then we are going back to our London house sit so that the house owners can have a summer holiday in Portugal. We can't be too bad if they will have us back :).

( 5 ) Back to Australia in the middle of September, 2007

( 6 ) We are in the running for a house sit in Adelaide for all of October.

Hope this has been helpful,
Regards,
John and Kerrie

twotravellers

View profile for sitters twotravellers

Globe trotting house sitter looks up her friends across the country

I just wanted to let you know that since joining I have house/pet sat in New Mexico for a month, in Honolulu for a month, in st. paul,mn for a month, and in May I will be in Tucson AZ for 2 weeks and in June I will be in Atlanta, GA for a month.

I have been choosing places where I have old friends or family. Jane (username:janieben)

View profile for house sitter janieben

4.5 months Tampa Palms Florida housesit filled by Californian looking to relocate

I can't tell you how wonderful your service was to use. It was so easy. We received notes from many highly qualified and interesting sounding applicants.

We went over them all, wrote back to some and decided on a delightful person from California looking to relocate in Florida. Thank you for a rewarding experience--what a marvelous service!

homeonwer member: stanleyreahard

Housesit 4.5 months Tampa Palms Florida
We live in a lovely 3 bedroom, 3 bath house in an area convenient to USF, golf courses, Busch Gardens,Gulf beaches (40 minutes) and an hour drive to Orlando. The house has a pool, spa and sauna and is on a conservation lot that backs up to a pond. We are connected to high speed internet and have two offices where a sitter can set up to do business.

We have ongoing yard and pool service and can make arrangements with our cleaning crew if desired. We are walking distance to shopping and an Episcopal church. A multi-plex is 2 miles down the road as are restaurants and chain stores.

We also have a cat who loves to sit on the desk while you work and on your lap when you watch tv so if you're allergic, this house is not for you! Please contact us if you're interested. We'd love to have a couple or a single to enjoy our house and take good care of our cat.

House sitting amoung the wines, hazel nuts and the white truffles of Alba Italy

"Just finishing having a 5 month house sit for our home in Italy. It worked out great. We have just organized another for a three week period.
Thanks for your wonderful service..." Homeowner member Krath10

Housesit: Cessole Piemonte Italy. From April 1 2007
We have a three bedroom home in the hills of the Langhe. The area is famous for its wines, hazel nuts and the white truffles of Alba. We are looking for someone to stay at our home from April 1st to the 27th. We would like people that are pleased to take care of the gardening and who could also do some general repairs etc. A car is necessary

House sitting Press

Here are some press releases on house sitting experiences through housecarers.com


Subscribe to House sitting press feed

Farmstay Holiday filled and hobby farmers released to enjoy time away

"Thank you for this great service. We have found a housesitter. It will be a great load off our minds while we are away,as we have a few animals on our farm. And I'm sure the housesitters will enjoy their farmstay. Thanks again for this wonderful web site." Regards Kylie (kakadu)

House sit UserName = kakadu Wagga Wagga NSW Australia 2 weeks
We have a small farm, So housesitter would need to look after house and yard, also feed the various animals, Horse, Cows, Goats, Sheep, Ducks and Chickens. This is not hard to do or very time consuming, but very enjoyable. Have a farm stay holiday at our place!

Pet Safety: How to Pet Proof your Home

Our homes present many dangers to our feline and canine companions that we need to consider and take steps to prevent accidental poisoning or injury, possibly even death.

Here are two articles/checklists for keeping your home safe for your pets.


How to Pet-Proof Your Home

Pets are like children in some ways. They have a curious nature and a natural tendency to get into things that could be harmful. If you have a pet or are thinking of getting one, it’s best to pet-proof your house. Here are a few ways to protect your pet from household dangers.


Keep Pets Safe From Household Dangers

Sitter phillyqualified goes the extra mile for Wellington NZ homeowner

Hello there - I'd like to place 'feedback' on a housesitter I used at my home in Wellington New Zealand. His ID on your site is phillyqualified

Could you please place this feedback on his profile.

"Phil looked after my home and cats for three weeks. When I came back both cats and house were in great condition. The cats seemed to have been living in the lap of luxury, and Phil had also completed some home maintenance tasks (fixing a lock and getting rid of moss on the path) which were much appreciated. "

Highly recommended. .. Jane

Housesit: Roseneath Wellington New Zealand

"Require honest, reliable, tidy housesitter while the family is on holiday. Comfortable family home with magnificent harbour views, in easy walking distance to downtown Wellington city (Te Papa, Courtney Place)."

12 month housesit in Montreal filled

This is the second time I am recruiting a house/petsitter through your website. First time, I selected one based on listed profiles, and found a really reliable sitter within a few days.

This time around, it is a particularly long sit, so I decided to post an ad describing the deal - within 3 days, I received a dozen responses, with many promising candidates, and I have come to an agreement with someone who appears really ideal.

What a relief for me to know that my pets will be in good hands during my time away. I could not ask for a more efficient system - thank you.

.... homeownner member oksendal

House sit Plateau Suburb Montreal Quebec CountyDistrict 12 months

"Academic to be on sabbatical looking for a mature, responsible, experienced, non-smoking, pet-loving sitter (single or couple). Fun, friendly, large apt. in great Plateau neighborhood of Montreal. Fully furnished, lots of light and character. Pets include one very affectionate and friendly dog and three indoor cats (some friendlier than others !). The apt. has one bedroom and one double bedroom/office, a livingroom, dining room, large sunny kitchen, back and front balconies, one bathroom, on the top floor of a triplex. I will likely try to make 2 or 3 one-week or shorter visits during that year"

House Sitter Neva meet some of the nicest people through house sitting

Thanks for providing such a valuable service. Here's my feedback that
you can feel free to post on the site:

Since I joined housecarers.com, I've met some of the nicest people and I've gotten four housesits through this service and made contact with two other people for possible housesits in the future.

I belong to other housesitting sites on the internet too, but this one is by far the best. I appreciate that Ian takes prompt action to delete ads that are inappropriate or that fall outside the scope of housesitting. This is a very valuable service and I'm happy to have found it.
Sitter username nevhowell

Neva , Online Wellness Counselor,
www.askahealer.com

Northern Rivers Homeowners - couldn't be happier after returning from 6 week holiday

Your service is just fantastic. We found very professional and efficient
housesitters (doumatjas) and couldn't be happier after returning from our 6 week holiday. Ours were great and I would like to leave a good reference for them.
.... Homeowners Northcoasters

House sit : Lismore NSW Northern Rivers Australia
We need someone to look after our house and two dogs (and perhaps one fish, if it's lucky). We have a nice low-maintenance house in a quiet area. It has a medium lawn that will need to be mown. We want someone to care for our house and love our dogs the way we would. Thanks.

Victoria Point Precious Golden Retriver Labrador Monet left in such capable hands.

My husband and I would like to comment on the wonderful experience we have had with house carers KISIMUL through HouseCarers.com. We were able to experience a wonderful holiday and Christmas with family in Tasmania after leaving our precious golden retriver Labrador Monet in such capable hands.


We will definately use the service again. Our HouseCarers.com sitters were honest, patient and kind and kept us informed when we needed to touch base.


I have recommended the web site to various pet owners who reside in the Redlands Shire district of Queensland as we meet regularly at the Puppy Park.


Once again thankyou for providing such a wonderful avenue for finding suitable carers. As a result we will use the service again.

Ellen (homeowner member e192628k)


We live in Victoria Point in South East Queensland. We are seeking a reliable person or couple (will consider family with children) with references to house sit and mind our spoilt female Golden Retriever company, from 21/12/06 to 2nd or 3rd/1/07. You need to be kind and love animals. Our home has an inground salt water pool and is airconditioned. The sitter would have our guest room with own bathroom facilities. Our home is approx 1 kilometre from the beautiful waters edge of Morton Bay. Nearby one can access ferries to Stradbroke and other Islands by water taxi or vehicular ferry. This location is ideal for the boatie with deep access to the beautiful bay. The area is a tourist mecca with much to see and do from Brisbane which in 30 kilometres north, to a 45 minute drive south to theme parks then onto the Gold Coast. We are willing to consider a family who would like a holiday over this period as long as you have references and you are able to keep our pet company.

Sitters lexilou having a ball seeing different parts of Australia

Hi, we joined your site in October this year and it has been a great success for us, we have already done two house-sits and have a third one all arranged for 2 months in Feb 2007.

The people we have met through these house sits have all been really lovely people, we are having a ball seeing different parts of the country (so far Maryborough Qld and Sydney and the next one on the Sunshine Coast), we are more than happy with this site and think it is well worth the money to join, Patricia (lexilou)

View profile for housesitter lexilou

Sitter found for Scenic Mt. Tamborine Queensland Australia

"Thanks for your help in finding a sitter for us for 2007. Your system is excellent in allowing the homeowner to examine all applicants within an envelope of privacy, before making a decision."

Regards cal5288

Do you fancy a break in Queensland's beautiful autumn-winter weather sitting a modern easy care home-with no pets,no pool.

On top of a 550m elev mountain we look 60 kms to Mt. Warning with extensive views of the Border Ranges.

We are on 5 acres. Although that sounds daunting,around the home is cottage garden (with built in watering system from our own water supply)and an acre of lawns,which during autumn-winter will only need cutting every 2-3 weeks-taking 2 hours.We have a 2y.o.15HP Husquvarna ride-on mower.Gardener will also come in to help,at our expense.Lower 3 acres is planted in native forest.

35 mins. from Southport,1hour from Brisbane.

If you would like to sit in one of Australia's most beautiful places,please contact us. We prefer experienced non-smokers with references

Kiwi sitter phillyqualified sees parts of Australia She would not of ever seen with out Housecarers

I must honestly say how pleased I am with your organization.

Every thing is house proud, and one can not but follow the path way that you have laid out before your members. Because of this have my year nearly booked out except for oct. Sept. and Dec.you have just listed a new member from Wellington Janblakie. So I have taken the load off her mind as well.

A bit earlier than i intended starting but her property is only 10 mins drive away so I can manage it as well. Also i had three weeks spare in March and goodvibes sent a message saying they were pleased with my profile and will be in touch after Christmas, so that takes care of march.

I am looking foward to a long membership and looking foward to seeing parts of Australia I would not of ever seen with out Housecarers... Phill (Phiilyqualifid)

View profile for sitter phillyqualified

Sitters Margaret and Allen tour Australia and make friends House Sitting

What a wonderful experience housesitting has been for us - the places we have travelled to & the very special people we have met & stayed friends with. Along with all of this is the responsibility of caring for pets & property which is a privilege given to us once chosen to sit a property.

We have sat houses in Tasmania, Yungaburra (on the very beautiful Atherton Tablelands NQ), Innisfail (not when the cyclone hit)! Cairns (a couple there), Narangba & a B&B in the north west of Victoria (which was a wonderful experience for us). We have a sit in SA early next year which we are looking forward to after we spend Christmas with our family on the Gold Coast. An overseas sit we are hoping for in 2007 - if it is meant it will happen.

Merry Christmas to you & your staff
Regards
Margaret & Alan (AlnMaggie)

View profile for sitters AlnMaggie"

New Zealand house sitter Jan enjoys her Sardina Sit

I have just returned from my 1st housesit (in Sardinia), and found it very rewarding.So thanks to your website for the opportunity, may many more come my way. And Xmas cheer to your team , for all their work to enable members to enjoy this great 'fellowship'. Jan (Jayjay )

View profile for housesitter Jayjay

Sitter found for Coes Creek Queenland housesit

We are home owners who have used this site twice now to locate suitable house sitters. We have been VERY impressed with the service that you offer and each time have had very suitable house sitters to choose from.

This site means that we can go away and know that our house and dogs are being well cared for. We have recommended this site to our friends who are in a similar position to us. People don't always have extended family available to keep an eye on pets, pools and general house maintenance when they go on holidays. Many thanks, homeowners username judyandsteve Coes Creek Queenland

Homeowner twiligh get great response for Bright Vic Aust Tourist Haven

"We have organised for a successful house sit. Thank you - the service and response has been great. Will now use it all the time. We listed with a couple of other agencies with absolutely no response."

Homeowner member twiligh

Fully renovated cottage in the tourist haven of Bright, a small town of 2000 people set in the North-East High Country only 3 & 1/4 hour drive from Melbourne. The 3 bedroom cottage with one bathroom (new large spa bath)and dishwasher is set on a beautiful block only 400 metres to town. Bright has 13 cafes and 15 restaurants to cater for tourists in the busy times. The house is very cool in summer with most summer nights about 10 degrees. The house is set on a large block with a running creek and only one neighbour. Bright is surrounded by mountains and is close to Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Mt Buffalo. It is set in a wine and gourmet food region. Bright has been voted one of the 10 most beautiful tourist destinations in Australia. With nothing to do but look after two quiet cats - does anyone want a free holiday. Maximum of two people only as the cats are shy.

False Alarms: Know How to Prevent Them

Don't let your holiday season be ruined by false alarms.

Here is an article on preventing false alarms. Dont forget to
make your house sitter familiate with your alarm system.


False Alarms: Know How to Prevent Them - Kansas City infoZine

House Sitters Potter line up 3 housesits

I find your site to be very user friendly. We are pleased with your service and have found 3 very good matches as housesitters. I would recommend your site to anyone either looking to housesit or find a housesitter. Thank you. .. potter


View profile for sitters Potter

2nd sitter found for Scottish coastal cottages

Our first sitters contacted from your website have just left after 6 months, they and we were sad as it has worked tremendously well. Another will be in place shortly, thanks for this great way of putting people in touch.

Best wishes Janet (kilchristcc)

An opportunity to stay in a beautiful area with lovely coastline, in return for some cleaning/caretaking in four small holiday cottages

Sitter AussieWendy makes many friends around the world through house sitting

I love the Housecarers site, and I have recommended it to thousands of people around the world.

I happily recommend you to everyone who will listen.

I have never had a bad house sit and I have made many friends around the world when I sit for them. These friendships are ongoing.

I love what I do, and I hope to be doing it for many years to come. Thank you.

View profile for sitter AussieWendy

House sitter peggykass fits in writing, and sight seeing with her Vancouver Sits

This year I completed two house sits that came to me through this website. I have been pleased with both and have been asked to perform future house sits for both homeowners in the Vancouver, BC area. The first was for three months and the second for two weeks. Both included the care of cats and both were in locations that were perfect for sight seeing, as well as writing.


Now, I am in Europe and hoping to find a position in France for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months this winter, but I have to be back in Vancouver at the end of Feb. for a repeat house sit there.


My thanks to Ian for providing a comprehensive and very professional service at Housecarers.com. Peggy

View profle for house sitter peggykass

doglvrs2retird enrich their lives through house sitting

We have had several housesits through contacts from your
service and have only great things to say about each.

Our stay in England for a delightful couple and their loving border collie
this past February was the tops. Kudos to you for a wonderful
service provider! Your contacts are enriching our lives in ways
we couldn't have imagined. Thank you, and we hope to be of
service to more who need their pets and homes well cared for in
the year to come. Mary & Jeff .. doglvrs2retird

View Profile for doglvrs2retired

Sitter for Pyrenees Orientales South of France found

"Absolutely excellent service. Several very suitable people found to look after our home and animals. Thank you for providing this!"

Erik in the South of France (UserNam rousillon)

We have a fairly large property, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 terraces, swimmingpool, and a 2 acre garden, situated among vineyards in the South of France. Need animal-loving house-sitters for time to time, for a week and up to 3 weeks. NB: Two kind guard dogs, 2 horses and a pot-belly pig

Reluctant Seattle Homeowner finds Perfect Sitter

"Dear HouseCarers:
Thanks so much for providing this service and from what I can tell, managing it well. I was reluctant at first to select an unknown person via internet, but I was assured by a friend that I would be able to discern a quality contact.

I was actually overwhelmed by the quantity and quality of responses and have found a person who I think will be perfect. (A woman with a son near where we live with whom she wants to spend the holidays.)

I am already recommending your service to many of our friends with similar needs.
.... Linda (ChateauPoulet)

We have 3 very spoiled indoor cats who need daily food, water, kisses and hugs. We also have about 30 chickens who need food and water (every few days) and egg gathering (every day). We live in a lovely two-story log house with hot tub, flirtacious view of the water, within walking distance of Pritchard Park and 10 minutes from the ferry terminal on a Kitsap bus route. We travel intermittently for a week or two at a time and have ongoing needs. And I represent a network of friends who have similar needs.

Bainbridge Island Seattle Washington United States

Twenty Tips That Make Painting Easier

A list of twenty tips and hints that will make painting easier. Tips include ways that will make clean up easier, how to protect surface, etc.

Painting is a hard enough job without any extra labor. The following is a list of tips you should keep in mind before you start painting. They might not make you enjoy it, but they will make the job easier.

1. Make sure you have everything you need before you get started—especially enough paint. In general, a can of paint covers about 400 square feet.

2. Try to avoid painting on rainy days. The extra humidity in the air will cause the paint to dry slower. If this can't be avoided, use a dehumidifier to help speed the drying process.

3. If you are painting a large room, don't try and same money by purchasing the cheap rollers and brushes. The money you save will be minimal and won't make up for sore hands. Plus, better rollers and brushes will help you work quicker.

4. Have your primer tinted the same color as you intend to paint. This will ensure that the paint covers well and could cut down on the need for an additional coat.

5. Use a nail to tap about five or six holes in the retaining grove of the paint can. This will allow the paint to run back into the can. If you need to reseal the can, you can put the nails into the can or put a little play dough or clay over the holes.

6. Glue a large paper plate to the bottom of any open paint can you are using to catch any splatters or drips.

7. Flattened out corrugated boxes are perfect to cover the floors with when painting.

8. Have a wet rag and paper towels handy to wipe up any drips or mistakes. Most of them—including accidental dabs on the ceiling—can be removed this way.

9. Keep some patching compound and a spackle handy. You'll be surprised at all the little holes and marks you can find on your wall. They might not have been visible with the old color, but they can stand out with the new.

10. When stopping for short periods, seal your paintbrushes inside a Ziploc or plastic bag. This will keep them "fresh" without having to spend the time cleaning them. Plastic wrap and aluminum foil work almost as well.

11. Line the inside of your paint tray with aluminum foil or plastic. It will make the clean up easier.

12. To make cleaning your brushes easier, use an old baby-wipe container. Poor paint thinner into the container and push the handle of the brush through the hole in the lid. This will allow the brush to soak without bending the bristles. If you don't have any baby-wipe containers, try cutting a slot into the lid of a coffee can or similar container.

13. Wipe paint rollers on old newspapers before cleaning. Getting rid of any excess paint will make them easier to clean.

14. Rub hand lotion on your hands and arms before you begin. It will make the paint easier to wash off your hands when you're finished. Also, baby oil is sometime better at removing paint from your skin that soap.

15. If you have a steady hand, you might not need masking tape to cover the edges.

16. Wet newspaper can work great at protecting windows. You can use one-inch long strips of newspaper to protect the windowpanes around a window. Dip each strip into water. Pull the strip between your thumb and index finger to remove the excess water. Press the strips onto the glass close to the wood. Do only two at a time and remove them as soon as you're through.

17. If you're painting a bathroom, use wet newspaper to cover the bottom and sides of the tub. The newspaper will click and keep your tub paint-free.

18. Wrap hardware (doorknobs, hinges, pulls, etc.) in foil before painting.

19. Use old milk jugs to store paint. It will keep just as long and the paint is easier to access if you need to do some touch-ups.

20. Write the date, brand and color of paint used under the light switch for a handy reference.

Copyright © 2006, Ian White Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Contended Pets re-united when Owners return from 7 week overseas trip

Hi there, Recently back from 7 weeks overseas trip. Used your
service and wish to say thankyou very much for such an excellent
site. It's the first time we've used such a service and came home to
find everything just as we left it with a very happy and contented
pet to greet us. Again, I can't recommend your service enough and
wouldn't hesitate in using it again. Regards Carol -Jackjet 47

House sit: Townsville Queenslad Australia

Two Level, 5 Bedroom House with self-contained area on lower level. Two bathrooms/2 Toilets. Large fenced yard with good privacy close to shopping centres, medical centres etc. and 20-25minutes to Townsville CBD and Townsville Strand. Require mature couple who love dogs and gardening. Mowing of yard probably needed 2 -3 times during the 7 weeks. One German Shepherd Female aged 18 months and 6 laying hens. Dog is used to being walked each morning. Self feeder for hens - requires topping up and changing water dish. Established garden beds and lawn needing watering. We are retirees in our late 50's and 60's so would prefer similar couple with same interests in pets and garden. Great opportunity to experience North Queensland's perfect winter climate.

House sitter found for Sydney Harbour views Rozelle/Balmain 3 weeks Oct 06

This is an excellent service. I coudl have found many many really good housesitters. Thank you Janem43

I will be away for three weeks and need a reliable and kind person as house sitter to look after my much-loved cat Rosie, water the many plants on my terrace and just keep the house in order. The house is a modern townhouse, very sunny, with a large terrace overlooking the city and Harbour from the city side of Balmain. It has great views and is very pleasant to live in. A swimming pool and gym are available for use. Darling Street with its famous cafes and shops is a few minutes walk away and cinemas and lots more urban buzz can be found in nearby Leichhardt. There are frequent buses into the city which is just across Anzac Bridge

Island Hopping House Sitter secures two Hawaiian sits

I am a 54 old lady gardener. I work February through September, then go house sitting during the late fall and winter months. I have secured a yearly one month sit in Kauai, and now am going to do an additional one month sit on the Big Island. It was my dream come true. The day that the first sit ends, I will fly to the second sit. Friends are jealous and want to know how I get these wonderful vacations. I tell them about you.
Thank you for this wonderful site. House sitter Frogger (what an appropriate name- Ed)

View Profile for house sitter Frogger

Sitter found for pleasant home in Historical Ballerat Vic Australia 2.5 months

Greetings,
Please remove my ad for a sitter. as I have completed negotiations with a lady from Perth.

Thank you for this wonderful service, I have had great success with it before, and heartily reccommend it regards
Val (UserName: thespian)

I am an actor who needs someone to look after my home one small dog and two cats whilst I work on a play in Queensland I have a very pleasant home in Historical Ballarat 3 minutes drive from the CBD, with three double bedrooms,a very large (16 metre) open plan sitting /diningroom, chef's kitchen small garden and outdoor entertainment area, plus office. The guest suite has ensuite and walk in robe, master bathroom has a large spa bath. My animals are very easy to look after as they have a simple routine, but being very social need human interaction. I am willing to pay all the utilities whilst I am away, except for the phone. I've had wonderful house sitters in the past but unfortunately for me they liked the area so much they have now purchased their own home,and are no longer available to me. I look forward to a response Regards Thespian

5 month housesit Qualicum beach British Columbia Canada Filled

Thanky you very much for this wonderfull service. It has been great, We ahve found a sitter that we can go with. thank you again. Until next year we will be looking forward to do this all again.

REGARDS jam Member jdfourme

House sit details:

Require a mature retired couple,Non smokers with No pets and would ask their visitors to abide bye the same rules. The home is 3 bedroom rancher with 3 bath electric heat plus wood heat if desired in family room plus a detached shop..There is also satellite TV, Internet access, and Alarm system,Plus regular phone What we require is that YOU the house sitter pay the utilities HYDRO, PHONE, AND SATELLITE (Star choice) as per usage on mail out bye the utility co. Require references Available Nov02/06 till March 31/07

Dreams come true for house sitter mallane16

Hello Ian,
Thank you for the great opportunity to use this website, since joining in late July I have my first sit, which is local. Then I am off to beautiful Canada for a 5 1/2 month sit at a wonderful guest house. My dreams have come true.
Cheers,
mallane16

View Profile for house sitter mallane16

House sits fascinating in their variety and tone

Hello Ian,
The e-mails about possible house-sits have become part of my daily compulsory reading!! Most are not in the area I want but I find them fascinating in their variety and tone!

I have picked up another suitable house-sit through this organization and the owner and I met today following phone-contact to sound each other out.
I really appreciate the way this system works.
Keep "em coming! Yours sincerely, Diane (username dizlearningcurve)
View profile for sitter dizlearningcurve

Sitter found for olde world charm Brisbane QLD Australia

We are very impressed at the quality of sitters that we could choose from who were willing to look after our house for us while we are away.Also, thank you for providing a very professionally run service.We will certainly look at using this site in the future.Well done!!
Regards,
Trish and Tony ... username trishtony16

I have a lovely federation house with stained glass windows, giving it an olde world charm, close to the centre of Ipswich.It is within walking distance to trains, buses,shopping centres and the CBD. I would require someone who loves animals as I have 2 large dogs, 1 small dog and a cat.They are all very friendly but need lots of affection while my partner and I are away. I have warm sunny decks around the house for relaxing on and an outside spa. The house has plenty of off street undercover parking including a double garage.

House sitter Leuler is travelling the country house sitting

I wanted you to know that I have booked house and petcare assignments from June 11,2006 thru March 1, 2007! I began with summer in Dunstable, Masssachusetts, them move on to Easton,Md. and some wonderful owners and their Yellow Lab and African Parrot! On Sept 28th, I fly to colorful Taos for nine weeks of caring for two dachshunds and a fabulous contempory home, them onto Chama, NM for eight days.then, back to Easton, for Decemebr thru March 1, 2007. It's exciting and gives me an opportunity to care for dogs, man's best friend! Thanks , Joe (Leuler)
View profile for sitter Joe (Leuler)

Sitter found for Nutley New Jersey Two lovely labs, gerils and fish

"Just to let you know..... we have a sitter for this specific request. We think this is a great site and will certainly use it more in the future. "
Mary UserName: gravesm1

Two lovely labs were recently adopted and so we don't want to put into kennel. three visits a day for feeding and companionship/ walks. well behaved/ No problems or issues. also periodic feeding of gerbils and fish.

Homeowner - city center Vienna Austria, share their experience

"We used your service for the first time last week. Our house sitter was wonderful to our dog and respectful to our home. I think this is a fabulous concept! Thanks for your assistance, we are already looking to use it again!"
UserName: Czuchna

Housesit Vienna Austria City Center District 3
We would like to have someone use our house as vacation accomodations in exchange for watching our dog for the period indicated. We have a 230 sq. meter (2400 sq. ft.)flat near the city center (10 min. walk). We are near all types of public transport, shopping, dining, and a 2 min. walk to the Belvedere. Our dog is a great dane that is sweet and loves all people. She is crate trained, and house trained. You will enjoy staying at our house!

Home Invasion: How To Prevent Termites From Taking Over Your Home

They are focused in their pursuits, they are abundant in number, and they are probably nibbling on your home right now. What am I referring to? Termites! One of the few insect colonies to eat continuously, a typical single termite colony can completely consume 2.3 linear feet of 2x4 pine in one single year. If that does not sound like much to you, consider the seriousness of the situation if that 2x4 was also one of the supporting beams of your house. Keep in mind also that where there is one termite colony there are usually others, clustered together in pursuit of food. Suddenly, that 2.3 linear feet seems significant, and it is, especially when it is multiplied four or five times.

Termites are one of the biggest contributors to home destruction, costing a staggering $1 billion in damages each year. Thanks to the importing of the voracious Formosan termite from East Asia, that amount continues to skyrocket. Think about the following numbers for a moment. A termite colony consists of anywhere from 350,000 to well over a million workers, soldiers, and swarmers (termites with wings). A single termite queen can lay thousands of eggs per day and live between 30 and 50 years. That means a queen can recoup her losses and repopulate her colony even after tremendous devastation. This means the best way to fight this foe is to prevent them from ever touching your home.

Before we can look at how to prevent them, let’s look at the conditions that attract termites to an area:

Soil: Most termites are subterranean, meaning that they build their colonies in the ground. They love the soil and build elaborate tunnel systems, called galleries, extending up to three feet below the surface. Termites will often use this versatile building material to create mud tubes leading from their underground colonies to above ground food sources, like the wood in your home.

Wood: Termites will consume any material that contains cellulose, and since wood contains a great deal of cellulose, termites devour wood voraciously. If a single piece of wood touches the ground, be certain that a colony of termites somewhere will know about it. Although some subterranean termites will consume other materials like vegetation, dung, and humus, their primary source of food, and their favorite, is wood.

Water: As with most living things, termites generally cannot survive without a source of water present. Whether in the form of a leaky faucet or the natural precipitation process of rain, termites will always seek some source of moisture to survive.

Now that the three conditions for termite survival have been identified, we can now look at ways to prevent termites from infesting your home:

1. Identify and fix all water leaks in your home, both internal and external. As mentioned above, termites need water, and it does not matter where they get it. If the water source comes from your home, all the better for the colony. It means they do not have to work as hard. Eliminating their water source removes one of the three requirements for survival.

2. Remove any brush or heavy growth from around your home. Vegetation can create areas of intense moisture, which is necessary for colony survival. Termites like it wet, so try and disappoint them as much as possible.

3. Eliminate any standing or pooling water from around your home.

4. Store all excess building materials and firewood away from the house. Remember that wood is their primary food source. Scrap wood touching the ground is an open invitation to hungry termites. If your property is not large enough for wood storage away from the house, create barriers beneath the wood to prevent direct access to the termites. Thick concrete slabs or heavy duty metal stands can be used to raise the wood off of the ground.

5. Use treated lumber for any wooden structures that will have direct contact with the ground. The chemicals in treated lumber do not guarantee that termites will not invade the wood, but they can act as a deterrent for decks and patios made out of treated lumber. Home improvement centers now offer concrete supports that raise the wooden support beams for decks and patios off of the ground. This would be a great way to avoid wood to ground contact.

6. Avoid using mulch near your home. Mulch provides two things to hungry termites: a food source and a water source. The qualities of mulch that make it attractive for use in the garden are the very qualities that attract termites. If mulch is placed near the exterior of your home, it is only a small step for a colony to move into your walls. As an alternative to wood mulch, try using one of the newer rubber mulches now available at your local home improvement center. They have the look of mulch and the benefits of mulch without providing the risks.

7. Never bury waste lumber or wood scraps in your yard. It acts as a magnet to termites and directs them to your property.

8. Remove any dead trees, old stumps, or roots in your yard. As these items decay, they attract termites to the area by providing a food source. When the food is gone, the termite colony will look for new sources of food. This includes your house.

9. Seal any cracks or holes within the foundation of your home. This will help prevent easy access for wandering termites.

10. Keep all gutters and waterlines clean of debris. Clogged gutters and waterlines leak, creating pools of water close to the house.


11. Make sure your home is properly ventilated, including your attic and internal crawl space areas. Adequate airflow prevents the buildup of moisture needed by termite colonies.

12. Periodically, get your home inspected for termite damage. A once-a-year inspection can save your home with early detection. If termites are not found in the home, the trained pest control specialists can at least offer recommendations to help you prevent an invasion. They may catch something you missed.

So what happens if you take all of these precautions and termites still begin to munch on your home? Use a pest control specialist in your area to help you deal with the problem. Here are a few of the treatment options that are currently on the market:

 Liquid Termiticide: This liquid pesticide is generally applied around the foundation of the house, as well as underneath the foundation. For new construction sites, the termiticide is applied to the graded soil as the home is being built, but for existing buildings, the foundation is partially dug out and drilled to ensure proper coverage. There are termiticides on the market that act as barriers and repellents to termite invasions, and there are termiticides that act as nerve poisons, killing the termites upon exposure.

 Subterranean Bait: Rather than acting as a deterrent to termite invasion, termite baits attempt to eliminate the colony at its source. Bait stations are set in the ground every ten feet or so around the perimeter of the home. The treatment begins when untreated wood segments are installed in the bait units to determine if termites are active around the house. The units are checked once a week, and if live termites are found, the wood is replaced with a toxic bait that is ingested by the termites and carried back to the colony. The toxins in the bait affect the termites by preventing the molting process, causing them to die ‘within their shell’. This long acting toxin allows the termites to both ingest the poison and carry it back to share with their colony. Special bait units can also be installed inside the home if termites damage is evident. A new series of bait traps have been developed by Dow Agrosciences to fight the more aggressive Formosan termite, which can penetrate cement, brick, heavy duty plastics, and high-pressure water lines just to get to food and water sources.

The best treatment option is a combination of termiticides and bait units setup both in the ground and throughout the house. Termites are hard to kill, and they are even harder to eradicate, so be tenacious in your efforts. Your best bet is to call a professional to help you. Over the counter solutions do not offer the same level of effectiveness that professional grade products do. Your house is one of your greatest commitments you will ever make. It is worth protecting the right way by getting the help of professionals who know what they are doing. But remember. In this case, an ounce of prevention really can take you far, ensuring a better chance of keeping these nasty bugs from eating up your investment before you have a chance to truly enjoy the fruits of your labor.

©2006 Ian White Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Gers Gascony France homewner's life is changed

Again such an efficient site! Many thanks, you really are appreciated and I tell everyone I know.

All are housesitters have been absolutely delightful and you've changed my life as I never used to leave home because of the four-leggeds! Thanks again!

...Happyinthegers

Housesit: Perchede Gers Gascony France
3 well behaved dogs, 2 well behaved horses (they live out in the field). Our house and garden will need a minder for a week starting Nov 14th. Lovely area in the heart of Gascony and a house in perfect working order. (with central heating, although at that time of year it's doubtful whether it's necessary!)

Several housesits enjoyed by Sitter Goldengirl

Just to say Thankyou. For the past 2 years, I have enjoyed several housesits through your wonderful site. I hope to continue doing this for years to come. Your site is safe, comprehensive and, as a member, so easy to access - congratulations.

Susan (GoldenGirl)

View profile for House Sitter GoldenGirl

Five dogs,three Cats and two Parakeets in Mexico

I had my first House-sit in Mexico for 92 Days I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I took care of Five dogs,three Cats and two Parakeets all of which were rescue animals.

I am again looking for something else- 3 or more months in Mexico,Scotland,Arkansas, or Tuscon Arizona ... Housesitter pipergran

View profile for housesitter pipergran

How to Buy a Home Alarm System

Every year more and more homeowners are experiencing one of their worst nightmares- a home burglary. Chances are that you know someone who has been burglarized, or maybe you have already been a victim. The best step to take to prevent your home from being burglarized is to invest in a home alarm. A home alarm system can make all the difference between peace of mind and the lack of it.

If you are considering purchasing a home alarm system, do your homework. A little bit of easy research is all that it takes to ensure that you get the best possible alarm system for your home. In fact, the first step that you can take is to call your local police station to get some basic information. Find out whether or not they will recommend any companies for the job. If so, check those companies out first.

Next, contact your homeowner’s insurance company. Inform them of your intention to acquire a home alarm system and ask if they have any suggestions or recommendations for types of systems or particular companies. Since a discount is often given to homeowner’s who have an alarm system installed on their home, ask how much you will save on your insurance cost and find out id this differs according to the type of system that you have installed. Even if the amount is minimal, it does make a difference to the total cost of your insurance in the long run.

When you begin your search in earnest, have a representative from each company that you are considering come out to your home for an inspection. Ask for their recommendation in writing along with the cost of the system.

Next, you will need to consider which windows and doors you would like to include in the alarm system. Some systems charge by the number of zones that have been integrated into the alarm system. Each window or door is typically identified as a zone. A basic alarm system may originally be set up for a maximum number of zones. Adding zones onto the system may be possible for an increase in price.

Additionally, remember that not all systems are manufactured in the same manner. Consider whether or not you want your system to be wireless. With a wireless system, no one needs to worry about drilling, unsightly holes, and wires to hide.

Moreover, homeowners need to think about acquiring a battery backup for the alarm system in the event of a power outage. Plus, find out if any additional fees are expected and how often the system will require maintenance. Likewise, check into getting a system with a remote control if that is something that you are interested in getting.

Homeowners will also need to make a choice as to whether they want to have a twenty-four hour monitoring service. Typically, a monthly fee is involved. With this type of system, once a break in is detected, the local police are sent to investigate.

Along with cost features, it is important to consider the family’s lifestyle when deciding which windows and doors to target. Do you have pets? Do the pets frequent particular areas that may interfere with setting up the system in particular zones? What about family members? Will placing an alarm in certain areas cause problems or difficulties?

All of these factors need to be taken into consideration when deciding the location and type of sensors that will be used. Homeowners will do well to select a system that can meet all of their needs. Moreover, it is wise to select a system that can monitor each zone in a single location such as the control panel.

Determine the location for your control panel. Typically, two separate control panels and keypad sets are available; therefore, you will need to decide on two separate locations. The most common locations for control panels are the front door area and the master bedroom area. The control panel is in control of the system, while the keypad allows programming of the system. The keypad also allows the homeowner to turn the system on and off.

When selecting the code to be used for access to the system, a family friendly code, or one that is familiar and readily recalled by the entire family is the best choice. Remember that it might be needed during an emergency, so don’t make it too difficult.

A home alarm system can protect your home and loved ones from the unthinkable. It is a small price to pay for peace of mind. Begin your search today.

©2006 Ian White Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Unexpected Welcome Home Dinner for home owners libtravel

Through this service, we were able to screen potential sitters then select a great person to watch our home and take care of our house cat for our three week summer sojourn.

The unexpected benefits included rides to our starting point, regular email updates, and a welcome home dinner. The experience was a very positive one that has led to a new friendship. I will recommend the site to friends and colleagues. Thank you!

... libtravel

Completed Housesit: San Francisco Bay Area
Seeking quiet nonsmoking person to care for friendly house cat, water plants, take in mail, etc. Easy access by car and/or public transit to SF, Berkeley, Oakland, Marin, Vallejo, etc. Sunny, quiet, park-like neighborhood; spacious home; driveway for parking; community pools. DSL line available if needed.

Sitting Grand Parents get once in a lifetime opportunity

My husband and I are experiencing a once in a lifetime opportunity right now, THANKS TO HOUSECARERS.COM!

I answered one of your notices, available in Solana Beach, CA, since our Son and his family live there (at the time, we were in Mexico). It just happened to be the next door neighbor (exactly the house next door) to our Son!! The owners of the house were as delighted as we were, to know someone with a vested interest in the area would be caring for their lovely home.

It has enabled my husband and I to spend three months (the entire summer) experiencing special events with our only Grandchild and the family (her 6th grade graduation, birthday, equestrian shows, etc.). Since Solana Beach is a very expensive area (and we are living on our retirement) we never could have afforded the rent for three months on our own. The other plus was meeting the homeowners, Tom and Nancy --they are such nice people and we have a great deal in common. How can we thank you enough!!

Gracias!!
Marji (Globetrotters2)

View Profile for housesitters Globetrotters2

Sitter found for Tokoroa Sth Waikato New Zealand sit

Hi there, A short note to let you know that we have found a sitter for our home , and to thank you and your service for a job well done !! We have given your link to several globe hopping ( well family visits )friends who are interested in your service .A well organised and managed site , and one that we sorely needed to have at this time . Rufus 33

Mature couple , non smokers require sitter/s for comfortable 3 bed house,open plan lounge dining kitchen , log fire sky t.v. spa off private deck .Backs onto farm .Handy to town, which has many facilities including ciema complex indoor heated swimming centre, Tennis and squash courts ,Excellent golf course. 40 mins Taopo Rotorua, 45mins Hamilton 60 mins Tauranga,90 mins Whakatane and approaches to East coast.We have a burmese cat called Cissy who loves lots of cuddles. I nearly forgot the ski fields of Whakapapa and Turoa . Our home is very comfortable with plenty of off street parking, even for a campervan.

August 24, 2006 For a period of: 2 months

Tokoroa Sth Waikato NZ

House sitters get holiday in the beautiful city of Tauranga and Mount Maunganui Bay of Plenty New Zealand

Yes, thank you, I have found yet another great house sitter! We will most certainly use your service again, so far I have had three great sitters all from overseas - we are in NZ.

Patti (patzhrex)

We need a housesitter that will take care of our home as we would ourselves and loves cats. We have two that require not only feeding but pats and cuddles and like being talked to. This is a short house sit but would be fine for someone wanting to have a holiday in the beautiful city of Tauranga and Mount Maunganui.
Tauranga and Mount Maunganui Bay of Plenty New Zealand NZ

Fremantle WA Australia homeowner finds competant sitters

"We thank you for the use of your site, wonderful
way to get competant sitters without disclosing too many details."
UserName: leslien1

House Fremantle very close to main centre,aprox walk time 7 mins. Federation home was built 1908 and has been totally restored,high ceilings,polished jarrah floors throughout.A second story addition added with magnificent views to Rottnest and Garden Island.Double lockup offstreet parking. Required to look after small lawn,gardens and two lovable cats

Sitters davetes05 mind some magnificent homes

Hi Ian and Staff,

Just a short mail for you, we have been with you for a short period and we have had several homesits, to which we are truly grateful, this system works well for both parties and we will continue to use homecarers for sometime.

The people we have homecared for have been charming and very pleasant, and some magnificent homes so once again thankyou, kind regards David n Theresa.

View profile for sitters davetes05

Sitter found Melbourne VIC Australia Inner Eastern Suburbs Bentleigh

"Thank you very much for providing this service. I found a house sitter easily and am very happy to use this service again. "

Homeowner member: chriscat

Melbourne VIC Inner Eastern Suburbs Bentleigh 5 weeks

Hi, We are going overseas and need a sitter for our house/garden and 2 indoor cats. Some minor gardening is also required, although we don't expect too much, as it is winter. The home is short walking distance to transport and shops and a short drive to the beach. The area is a family orientated friendly neighborhood. The house is a period weatherboard, has 3 bedrooms, 1 is used as an office and the other as our babies room. It has a large sit-in kitchen and cosy loungeroom, 1 bathroom and laundry/toilet.The house has ducted heating and a dishwasher, broadband internet and is in close driving distance to 2 major shopping centres (Southland and Chadstone). We require sitting for 5 weeks. If you are interested, please contact me

Keep Your Pets Cool This Summer

By Ian White

You know that summer is hot. You also know when you need to get out of the sun and cool down. Listening to your own body is easy, but your four-legged friends can’t talk to you. It’s your job to protect them from the heat – and all of the consequences of summer – by providing everything that they need to stay cool.

When temperatures climb and your pets are panting the afternoons away, follow these tips to keep them safe and happy even on the hottest of days.

-If possible, let your animals come inside during the worst heat every day. Early afternoon is the hottest time of day for any living thing: letting your cats or dogs soak up some air conditioning for a few hours every day will keep them cool and stop your worrying.

-Make sure that your pets have access to shady spots at all times. Trees are the best sources of protection from the sun. If that isn’t possible, make sure that your pet can get under a covered area, such as a patio or porch.

-Keep the pet’s water supply cool and fresh. The water will heat up as the day passes, so either change the dish often or invest in an auto-watering system. Many models attach to your outdoor water faucet: as your pet depletes the water supply, the system adds more without overflowing or making a mess.

-Never leave your animal in a car, even for just a few minutes. The temperature inside the vehicle quickly rises to the point where any living thing inside will either die or become very, very sick. Even if you park in the shade and leave the windows down an inch or two, you’re still putting your beloved pet at risk. You should leave your dog at home where he can stay in the shade or inside and have plenty of access to fresh, cool water.

-Don’t expect your pets to be playful or overly active on hot days. They don’t need to overexert themselves any more than you do. Like humans, pets can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat strokes.

-Some pets love to swim. Provide these animals with a kid’s wading pool so that they can cool off whenever they get too hot. You can also take your dog with you on trips to the lake or other body of water. If he loves to swim, the cool water will be great. The time he gets to spend with his human masters only makes the experience better for everybody.

-You might be tempted to shave off all of your pet’s hair, but this isn’t a good idea. The hair protects your animal’s skin from the sun. The hair also helps channel cool air to your pet’s skin, which helps him stay cooler. Instead of buzzing everything, trim the hair to a shorter length. A professional groomer can do this inexpensively and properly.


-If your pet seems sick or otherwise abnormal, call your veterinarian immediately. If your cat or dog is dehydrated or is suffering from heat exhaustion, he’ll need quick treatment to get well again.

Copyright © 2006, Ian White Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Author Ian White is founder of pet-sitters.biz Pet Sitting directory. Find a local Pet Sitter to care for your pets while you are away

House sitter found for 11.5 month Cabool Missouri housesit, rural area close to parks and canoeable streams

I have located a housesitter. Thank you for your service. Suspend "ChinaBound"

Sincerely Sharon (ChinaBound)

Single adult or couple wanted. No smoking inside the home. Pet care for 2 dogs and 3 cats. Small country home on 66 acre farm. Yard and garden care required. Pasture is leased to a 3rd party, so "farm care" not required. Scenic rural area close to parks and canoeable streams. Approximately 1 hour drive to large lakes.

Animal Lover found for 2 golden retrievers, 2 cats and lovebird Tico northeast of Philadelphia

Hello, thank you for your excellent service you are providing, I had a hard time to choose. I found a desirable person, we exchange a lot of mail and photos and she sound wonderful for my animals and housesitting.

You can take my add off the site and I am sure I will use it again. Highly recomend it to anyone ho needs it. Keep up the good work and God Bless Marjarie (marjarie2)

Walking and feeding 2 golden retrievers,age 2 and 8,changing cat litter and feed 2 cats one black and one calico 4 years old and clean cage for lovebird Tico,feed him and take him out of cage for play once a day.I have some plants inside and out that need watering 1x week.New Hope is picturesque town with cafes,river walk and entertainment we have tennis courts and pool on the premises,bikes and large deck in the back with grill and picnic table.Doylestown is historical town about 10 miles with museum,library, big parks, restaurants and theatres. Philadelphia offers history,nightlife and lot of good restaurants as well as cultural events.

September 1, 2006 For a period of: 18 days

New Hope Philadelphia,Doylestown Bucks County

Dream come true for Sitter mocha38

I just wanted to take the time to say Thank You for your site...

I was chosen, for the house sit in North Van on your site.

I begin the house sit in September for 3 and a half months, and it is a dream, because I am to start a practicum in that time. To be honest it is a dream come true.

I just wanted to thank you for your site!

I have recommended your site to many people, and know that I will use it again in the future.


Thank you,
Trace (mocha38)

So many new friendships formed for Sitter AlnMaggie

Once again I am in touch to highly compliment you on the service you offer. We have just completed a wonderful six weeks at Leith, Tasmania & were fortunate yet again to have great people to sit for & as with all our previous sits will remain in touch & so many new friendships have been formed.

I have given your site to so many people & have nothing but praise for your organization.

Regards
Margaret & Alan (AlnMaggie)

View Profile for Sitter AlnMaggie