Housesitting and Petsitting - Two Unique Travel Concepts

Photo courtesy of wa%u026A.ti%u02D0's

Kennels or professional pet sitters are expensive and the pets are much more comfortable in their own homes. Less stress for the pet and less stress for the pet owner.

Here is an excerpt from an article by Ian White of Housecarers for another perspective.

But weeds don't pull themselves. Bills don't pay themselves. Most pets won't feed themselves. Yet, the grass keeps growing beneath their feet. Ironically, people become tied to their homes by the same responsibilities that they are trying to escape. And, since the families that play together, stay together; people are not likely to leave a sibling or spouse at home to keep up on these tasks. It's a really discouraging circle.

For homeowners, the solution seems clear: find somebody to stay at their house, and take care of everything while they're gone. The challenge, however, is finding somebody they can trust. Friends? Perhaps. But most people feel uncomfortable asking their friends to shoulder such a tremendous burden. Relatives? Possibly, but then you'd be in their debt.

What homeowners need are honest people to occupy their homes. People who desire a change of scenery, for example, or save for homes of their own. People who wish to be closer to their own families; writers seeking peace, quiet, and inspiration. And they definitely need people who understand their specific requirements, and someone they can trust.

Enter HouseCarers.com, an online search and screen database for house sitters and homeowners to share information. The introduction of Housecarers.com allows people to leave their troubles behind. Literally.

At HouseCarers , a unique search utility allows users to screen thousands of registered house sitters according to age, location, occupation, and just about any other requirements that they select. From short to long term, and from yard to garden, people can find a perfect match, including a house sitter who will manage all lawn and garden needs, pet care (no boarding fees), mail collection, bill payment, utilities, and any other issues that may arise.

And the service is very easy to use. For instance, when a homeowner registers with the system (a free service), they will be notified by e-mail any time a new house sitter matching their criteria signs up with the program. House sitters, in turn, are motivated to register because of the fast and reliable way in which they can find free accommodations in exchange for housesitting.

Hi there,

My husband and I are very interested in taking care of your pets and your home while you are traveling. As you'll see by our profile, we're experienced housesitters and can provide excellent references.

If you haven't already booked a sitter, please let me know. Tell us a little more about your plans, your pets and what you would require in a house/pet sitter. We could also visit by telephone, if you like. Thanks, much. Hope to hear from you soon.

Cheryl K.

Your references will be different if you're applying for your first assignment. Choose a couple of personal references from friends who have known you for a long time. You could also include a reference from business associates. We have a good friend who is the Comptroller of a large company so we used him as a reference for our first application.

Photo courtesy of ThinkPanama

Music Dogs Love: While You Are Gone

Music Cats Love: While You Are Gone

Paw Embossed Dog Treat Jar Set (Four Piece)
by Pet Studio

A Common Sense Entrepreneurial Guide to Starting and Running a Successful Pet-
Sitting Serviceby Louise Dunbar

The Dog Sitter's Handbook: A Personalized Buide for Your Pet's Caregiverby Karen Anderson