Alentejo dog-sitting late May to mid July

About this assignment

Looking for a COUPLE (sorry, I am not looking for single people) who love dogs, simple country living and walking.
With regards to the dogs, rescued from the pound, Salsa and Ziggy both adore human company and are totally non-aggressive around people. Ziggy needs lots of scratches behind the ears, while Salsa loves cuddles! They can be quite noisy and excited around walk time, but are otherwise very calm and always extremely affectionate.
As a pointer, Salsa needs to be able to do lots of sniffing on walks and can also be quite 'tuggy' - although previous dogsitters have all aid she is much calmer with them than with me. Ziggy is usually extremely laid back on the leash, but can go ballistic if they spot a rabbit (which is not uncommon around here).
We generally walk in the countryside, although both dogs also love walking around town and are usually pretty excited when we do.
Priority will definately be given to keen gardeners, as there will be some work of a gardening nature required.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

1-Walk the dogs a minimum of 1 hour early in the morning and 1 hour at the end of the day. There are piles of stunning walks in the area, and several spectacular panoramic views to be enjoyed. Since it will be hot, the dogs will be sitting in the shade not wanting do do anything during the day
2-A bit of work around the garden, at the very least watering, tending the vegetable patch and maybe mowing - but there will be amble opportunity for more gardening for those with a passion for it!
Beyond that, you are pretty much free to do as you like - there's piles to see and do within a couple of hours drive! This is a very safe area where everybody knows each other, so I don't need you to be constantly around to protect the property against intruders
I also have some adorably friendly goats, but they really need minimal care.

What are the good features of the property and location

The property is located in Redondo, the Alentejo, about 35km from Evora, an ideal spot for those who like the quiet country life but also enjoy exploring pretty white-washed villages, old castle towns and some of Portugal's most beautiful scenery. (Evora, Elvas, Estremoz, Marvao, and Monsaraz to mention just a few).There are also some amazing towns in Spain such as Merida and Caceres that are also easily visited in a day drive.
The property has a shallow pool to soak in, an elevated veranda with lovely views over the vineyards and mountains in the distance to enjoy during dinner, and you are very welcome to help yourselves to any fruit and vegetables in the garden!
The neighbours are all super friendly and always willing to help out with any problems, although they don't speak English. My brother also lives nearby, so you have an English-speaking point of contact in an emergency.

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

Sorry, but I am only looking for a couple.
I do NOT have wifi, so you need to have some kind of mobile wifi plan.
You will also ABSOLUTELY need to have your own vehicle.
The house does not have air-con, but is well insulated and never gets unbearably hot even in mid-summer as long as its kept shut during the day, and opened up at night.

Can I bring my own pets?

No, sorry.

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