Country house in Andalusia - animal lovers only

About this assignment

This is a place for lovers of animals and nature. We are looking for a responsible person or couple who can take care of the many animals, plants and the living area. Because of this and the fact that the house is built on a slope, a good physical shape is needed.
In exchange, we offer the opportunity to live in the middle of nature, in a comfortable house with a swimming pool, with expenses (electricity, internet) provided by us, and a car.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

Being present on the premises:
The resident animals and the house need human presence. This does not mean that they have to be attended to non-stop, but some reasonable attention has to be given to them.

Staying in contact with us:
It is very important for us to keep a close contact and to receive many photos of the animals and some of the plants as well. Any problem that may arise should be brought to us as soon as possible, such that we can work together to address it promptly
For emergencies we provide a phone number that can be called day or night and, if needed, we can help you get local help.

The animals
If you are not an animal lover, this place is not for you: a donkey, a dog, 5 cats, chickens and pigeons live at the house. More animals may come as this is a place chosen and arranged for this purpose. The dog and the cats are allowed inside the house (and they should spend the night inside), the donkey, the chickens and the pigeons have their own spaces next to the house.
The needs of the animals include veterinary appointments (periodic vaccination and emerging problems), prophylaxis against parasites has to be administered, food would need to be bought (for which, obviously, we pay). They have to be fed, water provided, their areas properly maintained and, in general, should have human presence around them. Daily long absences (such as having an outside job) are not compatible with this place; remote work or retirement, yes!

The potted plants
Watering is needed, more in summer, far less in winter. Also, one should observe if something goes wrong with the plants and point that out to us. Depending on the season, a repositioning of some of the pots will be required twice a year.
We made a few videos about how to water the plants, but prior experience with taking care of potted plants is a plus.

The garden
We have a dripping system for the watering of the garden. The process of watering is as simple as opening and then turning off some valves. Some help is also available.

The house
The living area should be kept clean. If anything malfunctions we should be notified to have the problem taken care of.
No parties are allowed, other than having a few people on the terrace.
If you have visitors staying overnight we should be notified.
If you need to be absent overnight we need to know in advance so we can arrange for someone to take care of the premises in your absence.
Organic residues should be composted.
The detergents should be biodegradable.
Outside your living area there is a library; you are welcome to borrow any books, then return them either to the same spot or to an empty shelf from which we can put them back later.

The swimming pool
The swimming pool is heated between May and September and you are welcome to use it. It is necessary to observe the water for any discoloration and to remove the fallen leaves; as the swimming pool is covered, this is never a major problem.

The car
We provide the car for the general needs of whomever leaves at the house and for the resident animals. It is not meant for long trips away from the house, as this would entail being absent from the premises. If such a need does arise, arrangements with us have to be made prior.
We are covering the expenses of the car related to ITV inspection (this has to be done every 6 months), the mechanical repairs, oil and tire exchanges. However, as we are at the house only sporadically, it is the responsibility of the person making use of the car to make sure the car is maintained in good condition.

The Internet connection
The house has a reliable internet connection but, due to the remote location, optic fiber is not available; instead, it is connected in the Orange network (just like a mobile phone). The connection is sufficient for video conferencing and streaming. Mining for virtual currencies is not allowed.

What are the good features of the property and location

The living area provided to the caretakers was recently renovated and consists of 2 bedrooms (one having windows on 2 sides, facing north and west, the other facing south and opening into a patio), one bathroom, living room and fully equipped kitchen. There is access to a swimming pool through a patio and terrace space at the front and one side of the house. There is a barbecue and a basic outdoor kitchen too. The floors are heated and there is air conditioning.
You would be living surrounded by nature and loving animals.
This is a very quiet place, in the surroundings of Velez de Benaudalla, in the middle of a 5 ha orchard, with views to Sierra Nevada Mountains, 5 min drive to the village, 20 min drive to the sea and 40 min drive to Granada
Winters are mild, summers are hot and dry
You can find a bit of information about the village here:
https://www.exclusivegranada.com/tourist-guide/costa-tropical/velez-benaudalla/
and here:
https://www.abc.es/viajar/andalucia/sevi-velez-benaudalla-secreto-mejor-guardado-corazon-granada-202206200106_noticia.html

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

We care deeply about our animals and plants and are looking for someone who can help us stay close to them. You have to be an animal lover, we cannot stress that enough.
Our house is dotted with all or most of the features required for comfort and maintaining the good functioning and cleanliness are important.

Can I bring my own pets?

Yes
Restrictions: There are many resident animals. Certain pets could be allowed, depending on compatibility and the owner's capability for caring for all the resident animals.

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