Quiet Academic with Domestic Animal Health Experience

About this sitter

I'm an academic in my 30s and love spending time with animals of types, but don't currently have my own farm. I work mostly remote currently, and volunteer on sanctuaries and farms in my free time. I find both peace an energy in rural environments, surrounded by animals of all sorts.

Why they want to house sit

I've recently started a position here in Ireland after selling my historic farmhouse back in the United States. I really miss farm living and caring for all the plants and animals, and this seemed a great way to be able to do that and seek rejuvenation away from the major cities.

Their experience

I am anthropologist and have taught college level quadrupedal biomedical evolution, so I have experience with based veterinary science. I also used to care for medical rescue dogs and have experience in a variety of emergency medical situations for pets (and humans, as I was an emergency responder in my early 20s).

I have experience working with a variety of farm animals used to administer monthly herd health checks and vaccinations for a ranch with 40 alpacas of a variety of ages and medical conditions. I also have light experience with beekeeping and spent time in a marine research lab caring for aquatic creatures during the pandemic shutdown.

What can they bring to the assignment

I live a pretty quiet and self-sufficient life! I'm used to being a homeowner, and an owner of very high-needs pets. I have professional experience caring for terrestrial and aquatic animals of all sizes, caring for and restoring historic homes, and reviewing veterinary medical literature.

It is extremely important to me that all animals feel comfortable with me and I have a history of winning over the difficult cases, traumatized rescues, aggressive cases, and stubborn ones that just need a little extra space and understanding!

I also have a full driving license and a mini pickup truck that is equipped to transport smaller animals (can fit a late juvenile alpaca or smaller) and supplies (a Daihatsu Hijet Deck Van).

Finally, I think privacy and trust are extremely important. Letting someone into your home for an extended period of time, and trusting them to love and care for your animals and beloved belongings is a big deal. I stay with extreme care, and can even do some repairs around your house while you're gone if you like!