House and pet minding in West Cork, several weeks, spring 2026

About this assignment

We are looking for an individual or couple who needs to be able to drive and have some enthusiasm for a quiet rural life and to enjoy the company of animals.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

Our cat is of unknown age but senior, She is very gentle and sociable and likes to sit on your lap. She has been diagnosed with renal failure but is generally well. This means she eats only ‘renal’ food and sometimes regurgitates it if she overdoes it. We had a beloved elderly retriever till six months ago and so we are are aware she could have a crisis and possibly die at any time, but she is currently well and a very content and loving animal.

There is also a cold water fish tank with 9 fish which involves minimal work.

As the garden is productive throughout the year, there will be some fruit and vegetables available for you, and we would appreciate minimal weeding.

There will also some indoor seedlings to water which need to be kept indoors in the conservatory till our return as well as some indoor plants.

Grass, weeds, trees flowers and vegetables all grow in the garden - so some attention is needed, particularly with mowing the grass.

What are the good features of the property and location

Our house is located in a a peaceful rural area with good neighbours so can be enjoyed on foot. Macroom is 7km, Cork city, Killarney national park or the sea are all about 40km in different directions, although there are lovely places nearer than that.

The garden is designed to offer various seating areas. For example it has decking and outdoor furniture for the sunshine and a polytunnel with seating /table for poorer weather.
We find the South facing conservatory to be ideal for working eating and relaxing in, as it has a wonderful view onto the farmer’s fields where there are lambs and/or horses depending on the time of year.

The house has Freeview (UK) and national satellite TV as well as satellite broadband.
There is also an indoor infrared sauna and an electric piano in a relaxation room upstairs
which can help with really bad weather.

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

You must love nature and be happy caring for an elderly cat and plants.
Ideally you would have your own car but you can use ours.
Must be respectful to neighbours, take general care of house and prepared to do minimal gardening. Sadly we can't accept other dogs as we are surrounded by sheep.
(Our cat also does not like other dogs – or cats).
If you smoke, please do so outside, as we do not smoke, but you can use the polytunnel.

Can I bring my own pets?

No, sorry.

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