Peaceful Farm, near Ottawa with Canadian Suffield Mustangs and Cats

About this assignment

Seeking for a mature, responsible person or couple comfortable with farm life. Care for some cats, water potted plants and be comfortable around horses. We need a "on farm" presence. Must be a non smoker as I am highly allergic to smoke and scents.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

Responsibilities
We are looking for someone to provide a dependable "on-farm presence" while we are away. You are welcome to live normally, come and go, explore the area, and enjoy your time here—you will not be expected to remain on the farm constantly.

Your regular responsibilities will include caring for our cats and watering a small number of potted plants.

We have a farmhand who works Monday through Friday, so horse-related responsibilities will be mainly on weekends. We do, however, expect the sitter to remain observant and keep an eye on the property and animals in case something unexpected occurs.

Horse and Farm Duties

You should be comfortable enough around horses to recognize signs that one may be lame, sick, injured, or behaving unusually. Daily horse handling is not required.

All horses live outdoors on pasture 24 hours a day and have automatic waterers and electric fencing. Weekend responsibilities may include:

* Checking that all horses are present and appear healthy
* Making sure the automatic waterers are working
* Confirming that the electric fencing is operating properly
* Providing supplemental feed to certain horses when required
* Adding allergy medication to the feed of two horses, if needed
* Feed and water the barn cats and the office cats

Experienced backup is available. Local horse people, farmers, and a veterinarian can be contacted if assistance is required.

What are the good features of the property and location

Set on 400 acres of beautiful countryside, our farm offers nature, wildlife, and peaceful rural living. Turkeys and deer are often seen in the fields in front of the house, while coyotes howl and foxes bark in the distance. You’ll hear horses whinnying, cats meowing, and enjoy clear nights filled with amazing stars.

Our two-storey home has a kitchen, two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a sitting area upstairs, where you can watch the horses and surrounding wildlife. The main floor features a cozy wood stove and a large-screen television—perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. Our friendly cats will be eagerly waiting for a lap to curl up on.

The location offers the best of both worlds. We are about 20 minutes from historic villages and towns, 20 minutes from the Rideau Canal, and 40 minutes from Ottawa. There are plenty of waterways, parks, and scenic areas to explore.

Whether you want to experience the excitement of Canada’s capital or simply unwind in nature, you’ll be close to it all. At the end of the day, you can return to a peaceful country setting that is perfect for relaxing and reconnecting with nature.

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

### Important Things to Know

You will need your own reliable transportation. Most roads in the area are well maintained, but our farm is located on a gravel road.

The nearest grocery store is approximately 20 minutes away, so this is not a location where you can simply walk or quickly run to a corner store. It is best to plan ahead for groceries and supplies.

Please bring bug spray and comfortable hiking shoes or boots that you do not mind getting dirty—and not necessarily just with mud!

The main living area of the house is on the second floor, so you must be comfortable using stairs regularly. The shower is located inside the bathtub, so you must also be comfortable stepping in and out of the tub safely.

This is a working farm in the country. The ground can be uneven, with tractor ruts, muddy areas, and other natural tripping hazards. You should be reasonably sure-footed and comfortable walking on rural terrain.

Can I bring my own pets?

Yes
Restrictions: Well behaved pets considered.

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