June 13 - July 1, 2026: dog and house-sitting in Hamilton, MT [Tentative]

About this assignment

We're seeking a single person or couple to dog- and house-sit for 2.5 weeks in June, in Hamilton, Montana, USA. [NOTE: we are still working on plans, so our need is tentative at this writing.]

Ideally, you're a dog lover, enjoy the outdoors, and will take our 5-year-old Lab, Taiga, on outings for exercise once or twice a day. We also need someone willing to see to watering the yard, which involves dragging some hoses and re-setting sprinklers. We appreciate mature sitters who can address any issues that may arise, especially as we will be out of contact in wilderness for most of that time. We do appreciate updates when we're able to check in. This is a smoke-free home and yard, so please no smoking, drugs, or parties.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

You will be responsible for care, feeding and exercise of our 5-year-old male Labrador, Taiga, plus basic care of the house and some watering of the yard and plantings. Taiga is a beloved only dog who is allowed on the couch and our bed, and has a large fenced yard. He is mellow in the house, but needs daily opportunity to run and stretch his legs for exercise and fun. He loves to be out on hikes and walks along the river. He is a bird-hunting dog and has a good recall, but he does like to follow scents on walks. He responds well to a whistle, some commands, and being rewarded with small treats. Our house is humble but comfortable, and you'll have the guest room on the second floor. We expect sitters to address any house issues that might pop up and contact us (if possible) or service providers if urgent. We certainly appreciate sitters who leave the house clean.

What are the good features of the property and location

Our semi-rural home is two easy miles west of downtown Hamilton, a sweet historic town with coffee shops, restaurants, yoga and fitness offerings, and an independent bookstore. We are close to the Bitterroot River, with several opportunities for walking on river trails, and many fishing access sites. The Bitterroot is a blue-ribbon trout stream and there are many places to wade fish. We are also close to hiking trails of the Bitterroot Mountains. Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge is 30 minutes north in Stevensville, and the historic Daly Mansion is just a few minutes away.

Our house has a spacious and comfortable main room, a small guest room on the second floor, gas forced-air heat, and a small wood-stove. There's a gas cook range and microwave, one bathroom with shower/small bath, and a washer and dryer. WE have excellent well water. There is high-speed internet/wifi at the house and 3 bars Verizon connection. Many deer, birds, and sometimes moose visit the yard, and the property is fenced for our dog.

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

You will need your own car. Hamilton is an hour drive south of Missoula on a good high speed 4-lane highway and there is no public transportation in the area.

June is usually lovely in Montana -- rain or snow is always possible, but the birds have returned, the world is green, and flowers are blooming. Trails may be muddy and have some remaining ice or snow in places, but hiking should be good. The river will likely be dropping from high spring flows. We can give you tips on places to hike or fish.

Our area is semi-rural but just a few minutes from town, the hospital, and fire station. It is fairly quiet, but we do have some traffic going up and down our hill, occasionally dogs barking nearby, and at times the neighbor's donkey and rooster serenade the neighborhood.

You should have a positive attitude toward dog handling and a willingness to be a dispenser of praise, treats, and fun. Taiga is sweet-tempered, quiet, mostly very well-behaved, and responds well to affection and treats. He doesn't talk or bark much, but may whine in the car when on the way to fun, and he will grunt if he wants your attention.

(Note the testimonials below are from house-sitters who sat for us in our previous home in Driggs, Idaho.)

Can I bring my own pets?

No, sorry.

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