Keeper of the hearth

About this sitter

Recently retired Canadian symphony cellist, now living in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON. During 17 years freelancing in Atlanta, GA and throughout the South, I was lucky to play concerts with many great performers, including Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin and Harry Connick, Jr. In Canada, I was a member of the Calgary Philharmonic, and began my career in the Victoria Symphony. House-sitting while travelling is my new career; loving animals comes naturally.

My town in Niagara is "canine central," so I have many repeat dog clients; also Fidget-the-kitty (pictured while trying to prevent me from reading).

No health issues. I'm an avid walker, hiker, cyclist and kayaker. Single, no children. Former property owner and expert gardener, brand new to MindMyHouse, but have many reviews from other sites.

You will find a link to my cat website attached to references/testimonials from House Sitters Canada, Housecarers.com and most recently, Trusted House Sitters, through which I stayed most recently in London, UK. (I am delighted to have been asked back to London to care for Archie again, in November, 2025!)

Why they want to house sit

Now that I am free to travel, I find that house-sitting is the best way to experience new places and make new friends while indulging in my passion for animals. (I have been asked back by several home owners.) As a symphony musician (and teacher, writer, and radio host at several Atlanta stations), my career was enormously fulfilling, if not "filling full" my bank account! Therefore, being able to travel the world without having to pay for accommodations is ideal.

Their experience

In 2019 and 2020 I travelled across Canada for a total of 10 house-sits, caring for many cats and dogs, chickens, baby goats and fish in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and B.C. It was enormously rewarding, and I still keep in touch with several hosts. In December, 2023, I spent three weeks in London, UK with a lovely ginger cat named Archie (pictured). I am delighted to have recently secured a 16-day sit in Sooke, BC, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, caring for two kitties in August of this year.

Five years experience altogether, with many more to come. Here in my town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, I have many regular dog clients, as most residents here are dog lovers. I also spent three years caring for eight beautiful horses at a local stable, mucking, feeding, grooming and giving medications when required. They rescued me through Covid lock downs.

My own cats lived long and happy lives, as did my beloved Tabu, a rescued Malamute mix (pictured with me), who was the love of my life for ten years. Now that I travel, I love the animals whose homes I share as though they were my own.

What can they bring to the assignment

I take meticulous care of your house and property. A former home owner, I am an expert gardener and can mow any size lawn. I stick to my animals' daily schedule. I brush, play and cuddle--when allowed! (I also love sharing my bed with felines.)

But most importantly, you will be able to travel and enjoy your own adventures with complete peace of mind. Please have a look at my website: helenscatcare.ca