About

I have a sweet little kitty, whose name is Pickle, she is a toothless tabby who I am looking to have cared for and loved while I am away in Sydney. She is an indoor kitty (not allowed outside) and really loves to have company, but isn't needy and is quite independent, but will no doubt win your heart if you are a cat person. She's very easy to take care of, but I don't want her left alone overnight, therefore usual pet sitters in the area aren't suitable for the Christmas break.

I live in a creative country town in the gorgeous Macedon Ranges in Victoria, an hour's drive from the city or an hour by train (there is a station a short walk from the house).

My home is a 3 bedroom renovated cottage, with a King Size bed in the guest room (no children please - the cat is scared of kiddies). You will have the whole house to yourselves, there is a backyard with entertaining area and vege patch (and a large grassed area for sunbaking and relaxing and reading), it is thoughtfully furnished, with all amenities including fast internet, streaming services for you. It has a deep bath and rain shower, chef's kitchen fully equipped with all the things you could need (coffee machines, cookware and lovely dining area), dishwasher, air conditioning in the living/dining area, fan in the bedroom and a gorgeous dedicated office space with antique writing desk in the event you need to work while you are away.

If you love nature and bush walking there are so many beautiful areas for exploring nearby, all within an hour. There is the Wombat State Forest, Famous Hanging Rock and the Macedon Ranges National Park. This area of Australia in the early Summer is arguably at its best, as the weather is warm and there are freshwater swimming spots and lots of natural areas to explore.

The house is a very short walk from the historic Piper Street which has many incredible dining and shopping options, and some fabulous cafes which I can provide a whole guide to the area for you with all its highlights. Kyneton is a regional foodie capital and a creative hub for artists and writers. It is also close to Daylesford / Hepburn area (spa country) and historic Bendigo.

If this sounds like you, please reach out. I will require references from previous house sits, but I have no doubt you will love the house, be extremely comfortable, and would enjoy the area immensely. We can negotiate renting my car if required (a car is recommended to get the best out of the area).

My expectations for clarity in exhange for accommodation: daily video or photo updates on Pickle (I miss her terribly when I go away), her to be fed twice daily (three is preferable), ensure she always has fresh water, and for her not to be left overnight on her own. I would be grateful for the vege patch to be watered once every 2-3 days (especially if warm), and give we try to be environmentally friendly in the country especially, for utilities like air conditioning etc and water to be used when needed, but not unnecessarily. Otherwise, I expect you will have a wonderful time! No parties or extra guests without permission as this is my home.

Pets & farm animals

I have one toothless tabby named Pickle. She's a sweetheart, and indoor only cat (not allowed outside at all and care must be taken to ensure the little escape artist does not get out), who loves company, but isn't needy and is maybe a little shy at first, but after a few treats will become your new bestie. I am looking for someone who can love on her and give her brushes, little plays (she is a curvy girl so doesn't want or need a large amount of play - more loving on her) and petting while I am away. Looking for someone who is reliable to feed her, ensure that her kitty litter is cleaned daily (it's Ezi Lock so zero odour and easy for sitters - only picking up poops daily and changing litter pee pad once every 5-6 days) and ensure she has water all the time. She's pretty low maintenance and does not scratch or bite or claw. She's initially shy, but a bit of a snuggler after that. Not what you would call a lap cat.

House Tasks

Please collect mail (hardly any), put bins out (schedule provided), and 2-3 times a week watering of lawn (12 m2 - front and back), garden trees and especially the vege patch. Thank you!