Reliable, resourceful and respectful dog/horse/goat/plant lover seeks house sitting assignment in USA for Summer 2022

About this sitter

I'm a "young" (active and healthy) 60-year-old nature lover from Texas looking for a little adventure and respite from the heat. I love all animals but I am a bit allergic to some cats (sorry). This said, I could care for a strictly outdoor cat who wouldn't be staying in the same quarters I am staying. I grew up around horses, cows and dogs, am an avid gardener and not afraid to get my hands dirty. I'm looking for a house sit preferably in the western or northwestern U.S. but will consider anywhere in a beautiful, natural setting in a temperate climate with plenty of places to hike. Close to a national park or natural areas would be of particular interest.

Why they want to house sit

I'm retired and would like to travel, especially to scenic and interesting places. I'm a hiker so I'm looking at places/situations where I will have time to hike, explore and do other outdoor recreational activities, even if that involves taking your dog with me. The reciprocal value of helping someone while at the same time exploring and enjoying new surroundings sounds appealing to me. House sitting would afford me more traveling since I wouldn't have to find accommodations or eat out a lot.

Their experience

This is my first time at sitting in places other than my home town, but I have done sitting here. I just finished a long assignment for some friends who moved across country. I took care of their pond and fish, inside and outside of their house, and retrieved their mail a couple of times a week. I also cleaned (make ready for house showing) and helped them pack. I have experience with dogs and horses, even owned rabbits and a guinea pig as a youngster. I have owned 4 Border Collies, all of which were active, and I trained 3 of them myself. Dogs love me and I them. I have also chicken sat. And I love goats!

What can they bring to the assignment

I'm extremely reliable/responsible, respectful of people and their property, down-to-earth, honest, neat and tidy, independent and resourceful. I "never met a stranger." I do not smoke or drink or party. I'm a home owner so am familiar with the role and take pride in my own home and yard. I have a degree in sustainability so I'm environmentally educated. I'm active so I can walk your dogs or ride your (trained) horses. I'm an animal lover (My last pet passed away and I miss her!) so chances are I'd be loving on your dog as much as possible and keeping it exercised, entertained and healthy. I don't mind gardening at all (it's part of who I am). Please see my testimonials for local gigs (in my home city). I'm also happy to speak over the phone so you can get to know me a bit.