Kelsie

Hi everyone! I'm from the United States, but I've been living and working in Australia on the work holiday visa since February 2023.

I decided it was time for a change of scenery so on New Year's Day 2025, I'll call New Zealand my new home. I look forward to spending time with some cute animals again and exploring all the beauty NZ offers!

I started pet/house sitting professionally back in 2018 through a popular app used in the US called Rover, which like Kiwi House Sitters, connects sitters and pet owners (it is paid, however). I pet-sat on and off throughout the years between living abroad and my travels and would build solid client bases when I found myself settled in a place for a longer period.

By 2021, I was pet-sitting/dog walking full-time and had a growing pet care business in Tampa, Florida before I left for Australia. The majority of my clients were repeat customers and I developed strong connections with them - a few even became close friends! During that time, I also worked for a pet care company that predominately focused on dog walking but we also did drop-in visits for cats, fish, guinea pigs, and rabbits.

Aside from pet/house sitting professionally, I grew up with many different animals: dogs, cats, horses, fish, hamsters, ferrets, guinea pigs, chickens, goats... you name it!

Although I'm new to Kiwi House Sitters, I have plenty of references that I have accumulated over the years that I am happy to share. I've included a few in the photo section of my profile. I can also tell you how to find my profile on the pet-sitting website/app I previously used (Rover) where there are more verified reviews.

The bulk of my experience is caring for dogs, including dogs of all ages, from rambunctious pups to lovably grumpy senior dogs. All with different needs and temperaments. My experience isn't limited to dogs though! I have cared for many feisty felines, guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, fish, and so forth. And more recently, I looked after my landlord's two young Highland cows while they were away and it was amazing!

And let's not forget about plants! I was an aspiring plant mom/mum before I left the US, and have worked at a landscaping company while in Australia, so I'll be a big fan of any leafy children you may have and am happy to look after them as well :)

Also, I have experience administering medications, special diets and vitamins, and basic grooming.

***I won't have a car when I first arrive in New Zealand, and I'm unsure when I'll get one. Therefore, sits that have accessible public transportation/Uber are essential OR please be willing to pick me up from an agreed upon location/drop me off***
I am super flexible, I understand me not having a car isn't very convenient - but I'm happy to make something work if you are!


P.S. - I have been vegan for nearly 5 years - if that's something that matters to you in your decision-making process.