Homeowner/sitter open to swap

About this sitter

I have two Siamese mix cats--Simon and Frances--who are the toast of the neighborhood and are the only wrinkle in my love of travel. Ideally, I'd find a swap that would enable me to travel while concurrently finding carers for my kitties and home in the Oakland, California USA hills. I'm an active, retired, vegan, non-smoker. Testimonials for my home listing may be found here (you have to be logged in):
https://www.mindmyhouse.com/sitters/assignment/51497

Why they want to house sit

House sitting enables me to S L O W down and get to know a place better than just running from sight to sight. Also, I've had so many great experiences with housesitters caring for my 2 cats, its time to give back and enable others to know the peace of mind that comes with knowing your critters are being loved while you are away. Because I do have to arrange care for my own home and cats if I am away, I'm not a great candidate for sits local to the Oakland, California area.

Their experience

Yes! I currently have two cats after many others. Most recently, I spent 4 years administering medication to my cat who had lymphoma. She lived to 18 and we were devoted to each other. I've had dogs and guinea pigs and have cared for birds. I have extensive experience on the other side of the game--as a homeowner--so I know how great it feels for a homeowner to know their pets and home are under competent care.

What can they bring to the assignment

I can be patient with pets who need time to get to know someone and can "let them be" until they are ready to trust a stranger. I look forward to getting to know pets so their owner can be assured they are receiving the right amount of exercise and companionship they require. As a homeowner, I understand when it's important to call in the cavalry instead of ignoring a drip under the kitchen sink, and I do know a thing or two about wielding a wrench.
I prefer to get to know the area by frequenting the local shops and preparing meals at home in the evening...which I think usually is comforting for pets and their owners! And as a vegan, any cows, goats, chickens, fish, etc. can rest easy when I'm in the kitchen.
Ideally, while I am caring for your home and pets, I can provide a calm, quiet home exchange with the company of my two cats in the hills of Oakland, California USA. But a swap isn't essential...the alternative just means I need a little time to coordinate care for my home and pets...and I have a good network.