Donna and Frank, a couple from the UK, have discovered a unique way to travel and make money in their retirement. They have been exploring different parts of the UK by taking care of homes and pets for people while they are on vacation.
Their experiences in house sitting have been diverse, ranging from caring for unusual pets like axolotls to managing grand five-story mansions in Kensington. Despite their busy schedule, they still make time to look after their elderly parents and enjoy quality moments with their grandchildren.
Donna’s parents, who were also house sitters for many years, inspired her with stories of their adventures and the places they stayed. Following in their footsteps, Donna and Frank decided to join a house sitting agency for retirees called Homesitters.
In an interview with Money Wellness, Donna explained their process with Homesitters, likening it to a dating site where they are matched with clients based on their preferences. They typically take on 8-10 assignments annually, varying in duration from weekends to several weeks.
Due to high demand in the industry, Donna mentioned that they have had to decline numerous job offers. Clients who wish to rehire them are advised to book well in advance. Although they do not aim to make a full-time income from house sitting, they use their earnings to treat themselves to luxuries like yearly vacations.
Their travel expenses and food costs are covered by clients, and the agency pays them approximately £200 per week, depending on the number of animals they are caring for. Frank noted that while it could potentially be a full-time occupation for some, continuous bookings are not guaranteed.
For Donna and Frank, the highlight of house sitting is the opportunity to interact with various animals. Donna expressed her enjoyment of looking after a wide array of pets, ranging from chickens and ducks to axolotls. She recounted a memorable experience in Kensington where they cared for Labradors, Chihuahuas, and bald cats in a grand mansion.
However, not all assignments are straightforward; some clients have specific requests, such as daily walks for multiple dogs or detailed care instructions. Donna emphasized the importance of adhering to the clients’ preferences and maintaining the animals’ routines.
According to Donna, successful house sitting requires meticulous organization, with detailed lists and folders to keep track of feeding times, medications, and schedules. Frank added that a genuine love for animals, respect for clients’ homes, and a willingness to follow instructions are essential qualities for a good house sitter.
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