Cambridge post-doc and Phd Student couple looking for house-sit in Cambridge

About this sitter

Hello!
I hope this finds you well :)

My name is Ollie, I am PhD student of Medical Anthropology (Animal Ethics) at the University of St.Andrews and Oxford.

From late August-early September, I am moving to Cambridge with my long-term partner, Emily, to begin her post at Trinity College. Whilst I am completing my PhD, we will be quite tight for money, so we are looking, to see whether there is anyone out there who might be searching for dedicated, communicative and competent house/pet sitters with over 6 years of experience. We recognize this is quite a far-fetched hope but we are nothing if not optimists!

Although we are happy to be flexible in the arrangements, we are particularly looking for places with pets that we can shower with affection and take for long walks with me!

I have experience as a vegetarian chef and will spend free time cooking food with local ingredients or else be practicing instruments and writing songs. Not to mention writing up my own PhD, I suppose! I'm looking for a place that needs a trust worthy, clean and responsible sitter who wishes to practice his crafts In peace (preferably in the company of animals!)

Why they want to house sit

I grew up in a house surrounded with pets. I clearly remember the yearly struggle and heartbreak of having to leave them behind whilst my family left for summer holidays. The anxiety of not knowing who was looking after my companions was horrific. Now I have the time and ability but no pets of my own, I am eager to help assuage the same fears of other owners.

Moreover, as I mentioned above, I am looking for places to research and practice my crafts (music, veg cooking and wood carving) in peace.

Their experience

I began house sitting when I was 20 years old, through informal networks and facebook groups. So far I have looked after 7 properties in 6 countries (England, Scotland, Norway, Canada, France and the UAE).
. I have unfortunately had the experience of looking after Ill pets, having to take one dog to the hospital and daily vet visits subsequently due to a chronic illness.
Since then I have looked after a 9 bedroom house in Italy (Lake Como) a country home in the Loire Valley, France, two flats in central Edinburgh, a town house in London and an historic estate in North Scotland, using my spare time to help with DIY repairs (which is great carpentry practice!) and work in the gardens.

In addition to house sitting, I have also worked in the hospitality industry (in Bnbs) and am well used to maintaining clean standards of properties. I understand no amount of self promotion will suffice as evidence for my experience so please do let me know if you would like references from previous sitting experiences and/or a Skype call to discuss matters!

What can they bring to the assignment

.A respectful and grateful attitude
.A joyful care of animals and their companionship.
.Confidence in administrating medicines and basic medical care for dogs and cats
.7 years experience in caring for other people's houses in 5 countries
.My assurance for the maintenance of a clean living space
.Flexible arrangements to suit you and your pets
.Open and cheerful communication to whatever extent you desire