Response rating:
Preferred locations
Brisbane, South Eastern, Central, Central Coast (Qld), Northern QLD, Western QLD
Additional Info
Police check available, Non smoker, Experience with Domestic Animals
About
To demonstrate my reliability, I have 28 years background in the Information Technology field—10 years software developer in the U.S. and 18 years in software quality roles in Australia for Commonwealth Bank, ING, Qantas, Virgin Airlines, Department of Environment and Resource Management QLD, Emergency Management Victoria, and Attorney-General’s Department, NSW.
To transit into retirement, I’ve chosen to care for animals while their owners are away. Since 2018, I’ve cared for 13 homes (12 dogs & 12 cats). I have a deep love for and affinity with animals. When I care for other’s pets I treat them as if they were my own; I keep to their routine to ensure they feel comfortable, and I play with them throughout the day, cuddle, walk, brush and feed them.
To keep me feeling decades younger, I walk an hour a day and maintain a daily yoga routine. I’ve a great interest in ancient history and eastern and western philosophy.
Having worked for Emergency Management Victoria I’m well versed in emergency procedures if issues arise while you are away. I am a trained Montessori teacher, Neuro-linguistic Programming practitioner, and a Mediation (conflict resolution) practitioner. I hold a Certificate IV in Youth Work, and am soon to hold a diploma in Teaching English as a Second Language, I've held a Level II First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certification and have experience giving animals medication, caring for wounds, ear and eye infections.
I've owned 5 cats in my life; I groomed them daily and fed them only the best food. I understand when cats need to be left alone and and when they want to play, we play jump-for-the-paper wrapped at the end of a string and explore cardboard boxes together.
I trained my dog (Doberman, Newfoundland, St. Barnard mix) based on Affection Obedience Training method. Having gained this skill, dogs instinctively sense my ability to care for them; the mutual respect between us goes a long way.
I provide references from 10 home owners, a job reference from the Department of Justice, Victoria, and a recent National Police Certificate.
Excerpts from my references:
Ringwood, VIC - 6 weeks – Australian Shepard, cat & chooks
Marsha looked after our house, beloved dog, crazy cat and comical chickens for six weeks in July/August this year while we were in Europe. We loved getting the frequent updates on how things were going. It helped us relax and enjoy our holiday knowing that our pets and house were in good hands. We came home to find a detailed handover note, a spotless house and relaxed animals. Marsha’s connection with animals is obvious from the first moment you meet her and our dog absolutely adored her in return.
Frankston, VIC - 6 weeks – Cat
During our time away it was obvious to us that Marsha did a great job of looking after the house and our cat. She stayed in regular communication with us via text messages and included photos and videos of her interactions with Snickers. We could tell that she followed our instructions for the feeding and care of the cat and she went out of her way to interact and play with Snickers too. We believe that Marsha was frugal with the use of heaters and appliances while we were gone as evidenced by low electricity and gas charges. When we returned we found our home very clean.
Wallan, VIC - 8 weeks – 2 Fox Hounds & gold fish pond
We had Marsha care for our 2 fur kids for 2 months whilst we were in Europe. We knew they were in good hands the second Marsha walked through the door as she had them calm and relaxed and you could see that the girls were going to be absolutely fine with Marsha. Marsha is very friendly, caring and respectful who made us feel completely comfortable whilst we were away knowing everything at home was in good hands.
Mt Martha, VIC - 4 weeks – Toy poodle (15 yrs., blind, deaf, arthritic) & 2 cats
Marsha nursed [my dog] with great diligence and care for the whole month she was here. Before I left I was concerned that he would not last the time till I came home. Even being frail Albert enjoyed a walk and a sniff often twice a day as reported by more than one neighbour! I could not recommend Marsha highly enough. She made the whole “leaving you precious pets” a completely stress free experience for me. I count my self truly lucky. My house on my return was pristine and probably better than when she arrived!
Rowville, VIC - 12 weeks – 2 cats
Marsha house sat for us from 3rd October 2018 until 31st December 2018. She did an excellent job of caring for our two cats. We received updates, videos and photos of our cats, from Marsha, throughout our overseas holiday. Our home was clean and tidy when we returned.
Mill Park, VIC - 4 weeks – German Shepard & 2 indoor cats
It was the first time leaving my pets for the first time, I had so many nerves and thoughts as to what could go wrong. As soon as I met Marsha she made all of those negative thoughts go away and I could actually relax on my holiday. Such a kind, humble person and I’m so happy that she spent time in my home and with my furr babies. She looked after them and my home as if it were her own! I came home to happy pets and a well looked after house and garden.
Kinglake, VIC – 5 weeks – Staffordshire Bull Terrier
We had Marsha come look after our home & property while visiting family abroad. She also looked after our family dog. She is a really lovely soul & we had every confidence to have her housesit & dog sit while we gone for 5 weeks. The house was spotless! The garden was watered & taken care of. And our dog was very sad for a good week after she had left - no doubt they created a very special bond.
Sarina, QLD - 11 weeks – Large home
We would like to thank you so much, Marsha, for taking such good care of our home. We came home to a spotlessly clean and fresh house. Couldn’t be happier. You also kept in contact with us while we were away which means a lot.
Ripponlea, VIC - 4 weeks – Large dog (18 yrs) & cat
Marsha took care of our elderly dog and sprightly cat. She was reliable, caring and looked after everything and everyone to our complete satisfaction. I have no hesitation in recommending her.