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 reliable, retired professionals with extensive experience as pet parents and homeowners. Jim retired from the upper echelon of senior management after 35 years as a civil servant with the federal government of Canada. Through his professional experience in international relations and human resource management, he developed a keen sense of organization, resourcefulness and ability to respond well under pressure. Jim now enjoys cultivating his inner muse writing poetry, cooking fabulous meals and communing with nature.

Maureen is a retired editor and French-English translator who moved frequently throughout her childhood. She has lived in five of Canada’s ten provinces and the High Arctic, an upbringing that has made her resilient, flexible and adaptable. Able to fit in easily wherever she lands, home is where she hangs her hat! As a language professional, she appreciates different cultures and enjoys meeting new people in new environments. Drawing is her Zen place—she is a Certified Zentangle Teacher and loves practising this meditative art form.

We are both friendly, outgoing non-smokers who don’t use drugs. As former homeowners, we took immense pride in our homes and we will treat your property with as much care and respect as we did our own. We work actively to keep fit and healthy, primarily by hiking and enjoying nature’s glory. Dog companionship is a special joy.

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 and maintenance 

Our last two homes had stunning landscaped gardens with water features that we cared for with great pride and attention. As experienced homeowners, we are familiar with home care, regular maintenance and neighbourly relationships.

Outside of Kiwi Housesitters, we have completed house sitting assignments for friends and family, including two months in an Arizona RV (caravan) park looking after a Great Pyrenees mix as well as shorter stints looking after other dogs, gardens and homes.

Given our nearly three decades as pet parents and homeowners, you can travel worry free, secure in the knowledge that your property and dogs are safe in the hands of responsible, reliable and experienced caretakers.

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 honour/privilege of cherishing your dog(s) during your absence will help to assuage our bereavement and fill this hole in our hearts as we travel.

Whether you have human kids or, like us, your pets are your children, we truly understand just how much they 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. When not hiking, walking or exploring, we are homebodies who enjoy stretching our creative muscles. During your absence, your dog(s) will enjoy as much attention, pets, cuddles, walks and play as their unique personalities allow. We see you “Velcro dogs!”

WHAT WE OFFER
While you’re away, we will keep your bowser(s) stimulated and happy with regular playtime and daily walks (if appropriate for his/her age). 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 believe pets are cherished family members and treat them as such.

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 medical TLC.

As house/pet sitters, we feel our primary responsibility is to ensure your dogs feel safe and content in their own home. We understand the importance of consistency and 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.