Central Portugal- friendly pups and a house to yourself with a disabled mum next door

About this assignment

We are looking someone to look after our pup and help mum with grocery shopping and light chores in our country lake house. We have a 3 bedroom mainhouse and mum lives on property in her own house. We would like for you to come a day or two early to stay with us and get to know the area and our very simple routine. You will need to be comfortable in basic living conditions; building a fire in a fireplace, be able to change gas tanks, hang laundry out to dry and maybe some light gardening if you’re up for it.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

You will need to keep my pup company, feed her twice a day a simple blend of kibble, eggs, fruits, veg and supplements 2x a day. She likes to walk down to the lake and have a wee swim a couple times a week. Walks in the village everyday, there’s a couple places she prefers and she’ll let you know. The village is dog friendly and walk friendly but still be mindful of cars. Lola will just want to be with you all the time. She doesn’t need a lot of cuddles, in fact, too many cuddles make her suspicious of your intentions! ???? She will always want to be in the same room as you and will cuddle by your feet.

My mum will need someone to help her with grocery shopping and fetching her medication from the farmacia. She can’t drive and walking is only in the house. She has a caregiver come to help her a couple times a week but she will need someone to grocery shopping for her every other week. We have a car for use and the grocery stores are a few kilometers away, only about a 7 min drive.

What are the good features of the property and location

We live in a rural house in a quaint, friendly farm village located on a massive lake. All of the local neighbours grow their own beautiful food, have sheep, chickens and even a village donkey! There is a social every Sunday at the local “Association Club” a couple steps from the house if you want to practice your Portuguese, otherwise it’s a pretty quiet village. We are about 6 km to the nearest town where you’ll find cafes, post office, 4 different grocery stores, shopping, everything you’ll need. There’s a bus stop on the street and we have a car that could be discussed for use. The lake is absolutely stunning for long walks, safe exploration, and great exercise. It’s a mountainous area so expect some hills to get your heart rate up!

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

We are looking for someone to commit to staying in our house mid February through March l. It is winter here and it rains until about February with sunny days sprinkled in. The house is not very well insulated so we have a heat pump in main room, fire place in the kitchen and electric blankets to use for sleeping. They are very effective. We have some new furniture included a large VERY comfortable bed. Internet is great and there’s a nice workstation right by the fireplace with a lovely view!

Can I bring my own pets?

Yes
Restrictions: To be discussed.

Enlarge map