A week in the French countryside with my cat - flexible dates

About this assignment

ONE WEEK FLEXIBLE BETWEEN THESE DATES – I am looking for one or two cat lovers, preferably with their own wheels, to take care of my precious cat in the French countryside in Western France. I have references from happy petsitters from other platforms.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

Yoldjou (it means “the traveler” in Turkish) is a neutered male cat and very special to me. He is easy-going and friendly but he loves attention – he acts more like a dog. He spends a lot of time outside, but will come back to ask for food and cuddles several times a day, so I am looking for someone who really likes cats and will interact with him often. Other responsibilities include sending me regular updates, checking on him if he’s gone for too long and lock him inside at night. He can stay alone for several hours, and even for a whole day but only occasionally. Please only apply if you're ok with all that.

The garden aslo needs watering daily with a hose, but this shouldn't take more than 10-15 minutes.

What are the good features of the property and location

3-bedroom house in the countryside, in a hamlet with neighbours, located 4 km from the small spa town of La Roche-Posay, 25 km from Chatellerault and 1 hour from Poitiers (West France), both of which connect to Paris by train in 1 h 30. You definitely need a vehicle to stay here as the nearest shop is 4 km away and there is no public transport near my house. It is best if you come with your own vehicle, but I could lend you my small car at certain conditions. Affordable monthly car rental options are available in the area and you can also rent an electric bike.

Simple and functional house, nothing fancy but clean and comfortable. No air conditioning but the house stays quite cool in summer with the shutters and ventilators. You will stay in a large bedroom on the ground floor. Good unlimited internet, fast enough for Netflix and Zoom calls.

My place is in a bucolic area south of the Loire valley with old villages, historical places, woods and rivers. The small nearby town of La Roche-Posay has all facilities including a couple of weekly producer markets, supermarkets, pharmacies, a choice of restaurants and open-air eateries, a cinema (even a golf and a casino). You can visit castles, go swimming in public pools or rivers with supervised areas, rent an electric bike or a canoe, and enjoy outdoor cultural events. Although there is plenty to do this is rural France so this sit is best for people who like the countryside.

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

YOU: A quiet person or couple as Yoldjou is easily spooked. True animal lover(s) who will respect Yoldjou’s routine and who ideally will spend quite a lot of time at home. Someone who knows cats well and can tell when they are unwell or injured. Responsible, uncomplicated and self-reliant with some life experience. Also reasonably tidy. Previous petsitting experience and references preferred. I will also request a proof of personal liability insurance for you stay.

I would like you to arrive at least a full day before I leave so my shy cat can get used to you and I can show you around.

Can I bring my own pets?

No, sorry.

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