House sitter wanted to look after our 2 cats and house & garden in mid-July and other times - on the edge of a small village in the Alto Alentejo

About this assignment

We are looking for a responsible and friendly person, non-smoker, who will take good care of our two cats (both adult males and sterilised), keep the house clean and tidy, do some watering and enjoy the garden.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

The cats need a minimum of 2 meals per day - one of them usually only eats half his breakfast and comes back for the rest later in the morning. They usually like to spend some time indoors sleeping during the day, but in the summer they will be outside more and at night.

If either cat were to become ill you would need to contact the vet.

The house should be kept clean and tidy and the garden plants will need to be watered, especially the plants in pots and any vegetables in the garden such as lettuce and tomatoes (which you can enjoy).

We would ask you to keep in contact and inform us of any problems.

What are the good features of the property and location

The house is detached with a garden/horta including trees (orange, lemon, lime & walnut) and next to a small stream. We are on the edge of the village (with nice neighbours - who only speak Portuguese). As there are quite a few trees it means that it is a very private situation but without being isolated. There is room to park in front of the house. We have a small pool (a "tanque" turned into a pool). The internet connection is usually very good, so there should be no problem with working from here.

The village has a bakery and 2 bars-cafés (one is also a restaurant). It is within easy driving distance (15-20 minutes) of supermarkets, towns and villages and also the Spanish border.

There is a public swimming pool 10 minutes' drive from here and a well-equipped gymnasium 15 minutes away.

It is a beautiful, tranquil, rural area - great for walking and bird-watching and even cycling if you enjoy hills as we are in the Serra.

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

You need to be an animal loving person who is happy with their own company and enjoys rural situations. You will need your own transport. Preferably able to speak Portuguese.

Can I bring my own pets?

No, sorry.

Enlarge map