We are looking for mature, active, house sitter(s) preferably a couple, preferably French-speaking, for 3-4 weeks June 2025 who can take care of our property and 3 mares and a cat. Dates negotiable. We will be travelling in Europe and will keep in touch.
This is a rural property, at the end of a lane, 5 kms from the nearest commerce, so a car is essential. Attractive area with small market towns and many walking circuits. Ideal for the physically fit, nature lovers.
The horses live out in our fields around the house, with shelters. Daily checks, fill the water containers by hose, and be prepared to handle them if necessary. An experienced friend will come and help in an emergency. They are well mannered, I follow natural training methods using herd dynamics and communication and we are bridleless and barefoot. If you wish to give them scratches or an occasional groom that would be good but otherwise you are not expected to do anything with them and please do not feed them.
The female cat needs food and love, age 7 she is generally an outdoor cat but will appreciate your company in our absence.
Some light gardening, mowing if needed (sit-on or hand mower), and we have a vegetable garden and I would appreciate having the young tomato and pepper plants looked after : tied up and side shoots removed every couple of days. Watering if hot, dry weather from rainwater tanks using watering cans for point watering.
You would stay in our comfortable gîte next to the house. A swimming pool is available for use if you are prepared to do the light maintenance required (cleaning the filter daily, products once a week); if not, we can leave it closed and covered.