Energetic animal loving sitter wanted to cuddle kitties, and be a husky pup's adventure buddy

About this assignment

I'm looking for a reliable house sitter that loves cuddling and playing with cats and can meet the energy needs of an athletic Siberian husky. I'm looking for someone who would enjoy having a quiet house to relax in, a large yard to watch birds in, and cats to hang out with.

Our husky pup is quiet and a great companion to accompany you on big adventures or walks to a cafe. He can be left alone for a couple of hours at a time, but for the majority of the time prefers company. We do have some amazing neighbours who love him to bits and can possibly puppy sit for a couple of hours if you need to go somewhere that is not dog friendly.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

The house sitter would be responsible for feeding my three sweet kitties, playing with them, cleaning the litter boxes daily, and feeding fish.

For sits with our husky puppy, you would also be expected to give the time and energetic commitment required of a Siberian Husky-- which is no small task! Kayuh is an awesome hiking, biking, walking, snow shoeing, cross country skiing companion.

Caring for Kayuh means giving him a pill morning and evening (easily taken with a 'pill-pocket'), filling puzzles with kibble and treats, freezing homemade dog food on licky mats to give him daily, playing with him, practicing tricks and otherwise stimulating his mind, and giving him lots and lots of exercise opportunities. We have a dog door so Kayuh can head out into the fenced backyard when needed for squirrel chasing and potty breaks. He can be left at home alone for a couple of hours at a time, but prefers to be with you the majority of the time. He gets a minimum of 3.5-4 hours of dedicated exercise time per day, usually spread out between 4-5 excursions. Sometimes it is less time if the pace is fast-- whatever gets him on average 8 miles of trotting per day. This includes walks, hikes, runs, running along as you bike, time playing at the dog park, going on trail rides with our horses, and playing chase with you in the yard. We frequently walk with him through the park to a local pub (where he gets to go inside because he's so well behaved!). I've also brought him to the campus where I teach where he has accompanied students during field work and just chilled during lectures. He's very good about traveling in the car, but still wont always jump inside and needs a lift (he's a husky, and this is but one of his endearing, and neurotic, husky attributes!). Kayuh is very submissive and friendly-- every person and dog (or cat) is a friend. He's very quiet and only talks to other animals, usually when trying to get them to play. He's very mellow when inside, or when accompanying you out and about. But will get up to mischief if his exercise needs are not met! After his night walk and pill he always gets a dental chew, which is a highlight of his day! Kayuh is sweet and funny, and requires a dedicated dog person willing to meet his needs.

For extended stays, they would also be asked to pick up the mail twice a week, water inside and outside plants (in the summer), and take rubbish and recycling bins to the curb for weekly pickup. I would expect any house sitter to leave the house clean and tidy and be willing to take care of small household tasks as necessary.

What are the good features of the property and location

The house is very comfortable with a fireplace and brand new hot tub. The yard is like a private park and the neighbourhood is quiet and safe. There is a large park with wetlands two blocks away and pubs, cafes, and a natural foods grocery store is within walking distance. Downtown Beaverton is about 3 miles away and has great restaurants, brew pubs, wine bars, and a great farmer's market. Downtown Portland is about a 15 minute drive and within 30 minutes you can be deep in Oregon wine country. Within an hour and a half drive will get you to the Oregon coast, the Cascade Mountains, or hiking waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge.

What does the house sitter need to consider before applying for this assignment

House sitters should love playing with cats and welcome snuggles under the covers. They should be good at plant care and able to read whether a plant is getting too much or too little water. There are public transportation options in the area, but having a vehicle is a much more convenient choice (sadly). While there are three bedrooms in the house, the house would only be suitable for an individual or a couple. There is a bedroom with a queen sized bed for you. There is high speed wifi at the house. Ideally a sitters would be available for multiple stays and can develop a relationship with the cats and pup.

Can I bring my own pets?

Yes
Restrictions: We would consider other pets in the house, however they would need to be cat friendly! And love to play with another dog.

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