We are a youthful, well-traveled, open-minded, and flexible couple who love animals, beauty in all forms, and adventure. We are newly retired (Denise, Asst. Dean at University and Rick, Technical Project Manager) though may find ways to work part-time remotely. As recent empty-nesters, we downsized and relocated from Charlottesville, VA to the Phoenix area to reside closer to parents. We took exceptional care of our home and 3.5 acres, and our Labrador dogs lived to ages 14.5 and 16. Now, that we've lessened our loads, we're eager to explore! Ideally, we are looking to house/pet sit in homes that are clean & tidy, have modern amenities, located either in city centers, the countryside, or quaint towns and villages.
We have experience pet and house-sitting in Mexico (two three-month housesits with multiple dogs and cats) and in the U.S. We've raised dogs (that required both rigorous and minimal training) and cats as companions, and are loving and attentive to animals. We have experience with dogs, cats, fish, and guinea pigs, and would love to be in the company of and learn about other animals including horses, donkeys, goats, hens, and chickens. We are both in great physical shape and love to walk dogs for long and short distances. Rick is very handy and can fix just about anything in and outside of a house. We both love to hike, swim, bike, cook, dance, read, and watch films, and Denise is an avid yogi and knitter (perpetual beginner!). Rick speaks basic Spanish and Denise is studying the language.
House and pet-sitting have proved to be a lovely way to see the world! We lived in the Caribbean years ago and rented a villa which came with a cat and dog and loved this arrangement. We would rather stay in cozy homes than hotels and would enjoy the companionship of pets.