Maureen & Jim

(Please note that due to allergies, we are unable to care for cats and require a non-smoking environment.)

WHO WE ARE

We are responsible, reliable non-smokers with extensive experience as pet parents and homeowners. We actively work at keeping fit and healthy, primarily by hiking and enjoying nature’s glory. Dog companionship is a special joy. When not hiking, walking or exploring, we are homebodies who enjoy stretching our creative muscles.

Jim retired from the upper echelon of senior management after 35 years as a civil servant with the government of Canada. Maureen is a retired editor and French-English translator.

In 2015, we undertook a radical lifestyle change when we sold our home and possessions to travel and live a simpler, more spiritual life. During our extensive travels in North America, we have rented numerous properties over the years through AirBnB and VRBO with favourable reviews.

OUR EXPERIENCE

- fearful reactive dogs
- rescued dogs
- large dogs
- puppies through to elderly dogs
- leash and crate training
- grooming (coat, teeth)
- giving meds
- home ownership, care, maintenance  and neighbourly relationships 

Our last two homes had stunning landscaped gardens with water features that we cared for with great pride and attention. Given our nearly three decades as pet parents and homeowners, you can travel worry free, knowing that your property and dog(s) will be treated with as much loving care and respect as we did our own.

WHY WE WANT TO HOUSE SIT

“Dogs aren’t our whole lives, but they make our lives whole.” ~ Roger Caras

The above quotation encapsulates just how much dogs mean to us. The devastating loss of our beloved Brucie in January 2023 has left a huge void in our lives. After 29 years of loving and living with dogs, we are lost without them. We hope the privilege of cherishing your dog(s) during your absence will assuage our bereavement and fill this hole in our hearts as we travel.

We truly understand just how much pets are a part of the family and we treat them like the precious companions they are. It’s a win-win-win situation because
- you get peace of mind knowing that your pets and property are in excellent hands;
- your dog gets spoiled and loved while you’re away and
- we get canine companionship during our travels.

We are dog lovers who are dedicated to their care, so house sitting will enable us to enjoy canine company on our travels, while also allowing us to meet and make new friends. The opportunity to care for your pet(s) and home will enable us to rest from the rigours of travel and work on our respective artistic interests.

WHAT WE OFFER

While you’re away, we will keep your bowser(s) stimulated and happy with as much attention, pets, cuddles, walks and play as their unique personalities allow. Your confidence in our care of your home and pets is essential. To keep you connected and maintain your peace of mind while you’re away, we will happily send you photos and written updates of your beloved pet(s) and arrange video calls, if you wish.

We understand fearful/reactive dogs; our beautiful Brucie seemingly changed overnight when his brother passed. Virtually from that point on, he became highly agitated when around other dogs, so we have years of experience dealing with a large animal who doesn’t tolerate other animals’ company very well.

Administering medication, vet visits or special diets pose no problems for us, so you can travel worry free if your pooch needs a little extra TLC.

We feel our primary responsibility as house/pet sitters is to ensure your dogs feel safe and content in their own home. We understand that dogs thrive in structured environments. To help prevent confusion and anxiety in your absence, we will respect and adhere to all your care instructions and maintain your pet’s regular routine.

We have clean drivers’ licenses and are available for both short and long-term house-sits.