Jeanine
Jeanine
Responsible, loving and gentle, UK based, DBS checked and non smoking petsitter and house sitter with five years of professional petsitting experience
About Jeanine
*Standard vs enhanced as I already have a full and clear DBS- for enhanced the site asks for an additional fee for police clearance on a different website-as a teacher I already have this
*Please include the time you will be leaving and coming back on your listing, ie if you will be coming home late. Please also include your preferred handover ...
*Standard vs enhanced as I already have a full and clear DBS- for enhanced the site asks for an additional fee for police clearance on a different website-as a teacher I already have this
*Please include the time you will be leaving and coming back on your listing, ie if you will be coming home late. Please also include your preferred handover arrangements*
Dog Breeds Cared For have included: Labradors (x4 separately) , Whippet, Parson Terrier, Bison Frise, Maltese Cross, Labradoodle, Collie, Springer Spaniel, Cyprus Poodles, Yorkshire Terrier, Golden Doodle, Dachsund, Cavachon, Pomeranian, Akita
Ages and needs of dogs looked after: puppies, teens, elderly dogs, blind and partially deaf dogs
Types of cat cared for: Indoor and outdoor cats, cats who need to be let in and out, lap cats and non lap cats
Cat breeds cared for : bengals, ragdoll, short haired, moggies
Ages and needs of cats looked after:
Kitten, elderly, teenagers, cat with a broken leg kept in a large crate until leg healed
Dog Knowledge and Experience: Which foods are toxic to dogs, Awareness of not overfeeding/ overtreating dogs for weight gain, dog tail positions, walking safely on a lead including pavement awareness, lead training if pulling on a lead, when to walk a dog in the summer months including shade and hydration, how to pick up a dog, looking after puppies including keeping chewable items out of reach, how to calm anxious dogs (including thunder vests), how to reassure noise sensitive dogs within the home, food, water and bowl(s) hygiene, collar safety, summer dog care including cooling techniques, how to bath a dog, general and medical eye cleaning, doggy massage, administering tablets (crushed and uncrushed), how to clean interdigital cysts, how to prepare a bland diet for diarrhoea, taking a dog to the vets, taking dogs on public transport, using classical music to soothe anxious dogs, having a dog or dogs sleep on the bed
Cat Knowledge and Experience: Which foods are toxic to cats, cat tail positions, cat communication (slow blinking, winking, signs of trust), reading to nervous or shy cats to help them adjust, how to empty and replenish a litter box, how to stroke a cat, how to replenish an automatic cat feeder, cat cooling methods in the summer, general health and safety including keeping windows close or ajar for indoor cats, food, water and bowl(s) hygiene, applying suntan lotion to cat's ears and nose, eye cleaning, cleaning bite wounds with water and saline, cleaning wounds for rescue cat, rescuing a cat and co-ordination his safe transfer to Cats Protection with the vets (he would otherwise have been put down)
Specialisms/majority of experience: Owners leaving their pet(s) with a sitter for the first time, anxious pets, using classical music to calm and soothe pets, due to musical training and knowledge (BA Hons, PGCE Music)
Style: Hands-on, attentive, communicative
Qualifications: BA Hons, PGCE, CELTA, Dip Acting
Languages: English (native), French (degree), German and Italian (conversational)
Additional skills: piano
Cities and towns lived in : London, Cheltenham, Cardiff, Paris, Rome, Prague
Cities visited/ familiar with: Barcelona, Valencia, New York
Introduction: I've been petsitting since 2013 and am a kind, diligent and reliable pet sitter - I would definitely describe myself as more of a 'pet nanny' in terms of attentiveness and care. I am a professional petsitter elsewhere and am using this site for travel abroad later this year - via petsitting. I am a repeat and preferred sitter for five different pet owners, and am both a cat and a dog person, primarily focused on the comfort and happiness of your pet as well as your peace of mind. As a trained and experienced teacher as well as an education manager, I have an organised approach and like to stick to your pets' routine so that they are happy and healthy. I maintain regular contact and send both photo and video updates. I have excellent references and am a non smoker. I thought this might be a good way to tell you about me: (please scroll down for a references)
1. Why should I give you the keys to look after my house?
- As a trained and experienced teacher I am very responsible, resourceful, proactive, diligent and hardworking in my approach to petsitting, and take lots of notes on how owners like things to be done. I am a non smoker and will leave your house or flat both clean and tidy when I leave. I will send you regular updates to let you know all is well for your peace of mind.
2. How do we know we can trust you to look after our home and pet(s)?
- I am a UK citizen and all of my family live here, so I would be able to give you an address in this country as well as a copy of my passport and up to date, clear CRB. I have lots of excellent references which I am happy for you to follow up.
3. Do you like pets?
- I haven't got any of my own pets, but really love both cats and dogs, and animals respond well to me. I have a sister who has two dogs, a cat and two rabbits so is able to tell me anything additional I need to know or check. As a trained teacher I am extremely nurturing and have had experience both teaching and childminding very young children (from a very early age myself), which I find also translates well to looking after animals.
4. What have you learned so far in looking after pets?
- Each animal is very much an individual with different needs and preferences. I always takes notes on their routine and how they like their food, and am sensitive to the fact that they might have separation anxiety. If there is anything I am unsure of I always research it or ring a vet to double check. I make sure their litter is kept clean (for cats) and that the animal is happy - for example if looking after a cat I always check the position of their tail as an indication of how they are feeling- dogs also. I like to find out which toys they like, and which treats they enjoy. I don't like to leave an animal on its own for too long and always ensure they are comfortable and content.
5. What differences have you found in looking after both cats and dogs?
- I know to be extremely vigilant when walking dogs because of other dogs which may attack them, and I am experienced in dogwalking - I also know to keep a firm hold on a lead and to have it wrapped round my wrist. I have excellent hearing for oncoming cars (eg in country lanes) and have a gentle but firm approach. I am vigilant also when walking a dog in built up areas because of what might be on the ground, and recently a pond was giving dogs that paddled in it diarrhoea so I knew to avoid it. I am aware of the foods which are toxic to dogs and cats respectively, and that their tail positions mean different things for each -e.g a wagging tail does not mean the same thing for a dog and a cat. I know how to safely pick up both a dog and a cat if needed.
6. Do you have experience of taking an animal in your care to the vets?
- Yes, I have taken Tilly the kitten to the vets to have her nails trimmed. I also made an appointment for Mitford to go to the vets for an eye infection, and took her - she had her eyes examined and dye put in which was traumatic for her but I comforted her throughout.
7. Have you had experience of giving a pet medicine and/ or dealing with illness?
- Yes, many times. I have had experience of giving daily antibiotics to Bertie the dog and looking after Mish the cat when he had a broken leg. I also cleaned Mitford's eyes daily (please see above) and applied her eyedrops three times a day for five days until the infection had cleared. I have treated dogs' diarrhoea with a bland chicken and rice diet until they are better - I am extremely resilient and hands-on. I recently looked after an elderly Labrador who was on lots of medication, and worked out how to time the pills so that he could walk more easily round the park - this was also noted by a neighbour compared to a previous petsitter.
8. What experience do you have of looking after a property?
-Having rented on my own for several years (after house sharing in my 20s) I'm conscious of taking responsibility for a property and all that entails - having an awareness of security, making sure doors are locked and appliances are switched off, keeping bill costs down, emptying the household rubbish and recycling, and generally keeping the house clean, tidy and safe.
9. What do you do for a living and how is your career history relevant to house and pet sitting?
- I own and operate an education company, having worked as a teacher for 19 years. This experience has included several years of primary and secondary supply teaching, requiring the ability to follow instructions, be flexible and quickly adapt to new schools and classroom systems whilst respecting what was already in place - I find this skill to be very transferable to house and pet sitting.
10. How have you demonstrated being responsible in the past?
- Apart from running my company, I have been an education manager for several companies on their summer centres, including pastoral responsibilities with children staying away from home in another country, requiring a high level of responsibility. I am also an aunty to two lovely little girls, and having grown up with two much younger sisters I have always been very hands-on and responsible. I was often asked to babysit and childmind for friends and family at a young age due to being mature for my age, and am the second oldest of four children.
11. Describe how you treat your own home
- I am clean living, don't smoke, hardly drink and don't play loud music. I am also very careful with stains and like to keep a clean living environment. I check everything meticulously before both going out and going to bed.
12. What are 3 relevant skills?
- adaptable
- forward-planning
- proactive
13. What are the personal qualities that make you suitable for house and pet sitting?
- responsible
- caring
- diligent
- patient
14. Describe your personality and how you behave if you are stressed or tired - I have been trained to 'keep calm under pressure' and will always speak calmly and kindly to pets in my care, always playing down any accidents or spillages - a skill learned from teaching and childcare. Having babysat for my nieces since their birth I am used to being woken up very early for feeding, however do need my sleep also to prevent illness
15. What little touches can you offer which make you stand out?- I will leave your house tidy with a light clean ( versus deep clean/professional standard) with the rubbish and recycling emptied, and will wash all bedding and towels I have used or strip the beds depending on your preference. If I am ill I will do my best to leave it as clean as possible.
16. Is there anything else you would like to add?
- I'm a good communicator so will stay in regular contact with you and let you know all is well - photos and videos of your pet are also fine, and I love taking photos! As a musician I like to play cat music or classical music to help soothe pets - I also always leave the TV or radio on for pets if they are left alone. I am kind and loving towards pets and like to ensure they are happy - there are always lots of cuddles on the couch and I both talk to them and praise them (eg on walks) - as well as sing and tell them stories! I'm aware of food hygiene and always check food is in date/within the recommended number of days once opened - I also keep an eye of pets' preferred flavours of food from selection packs, and general eating preferences. I have previously bought a coat for a dog in winter who had recently had his fur trimmed, and a doggy rope toy for a dog who liked tug of war - I also like to pick up paper bags in shops for cats in my care! I am always conscious of maintaining a comfortable environment for pets, ensuring it is an ambient temperature and that tv and music is not too loud. Lastly I was brought up in the Cotswolds and have also lived in the city, so can adapt to different environments very well.
Why I want to house sit
I've been petsitting for several years as I love spending time with animals in their owners' absence. I have had lots of experience with pets being left alone for the very first time, and the owners have given me excellent references, having felt very happy with my pet care. I love looking after animals, who also look after me!
My experience
Petsitting history (most recent first)
1. Mish (ragdoll cat), Kensington for Irina (regular client-see reference below)
2. Jack and Roxy (Yorkshire terriers) for Rita in Friern Barnet-review pending
3. Benson (senior black labrador) for Sara in Twickenham - see review
4. Marley and Benji (Cyprus poodles) and Oscar the cat for Judith in Cornwall - see review
5. Winter (whippet puppy)
Egor and Elfin (cats), Archway - see review
2. Dido (female dachsund), Barnes - see review
3. Evie (female labrador), Camberley - see reference
4. Woody (male labrador) and Tess (cat) for Ali in Reigate - see review
5.Mitford (female labrador), Hemi and Fitz (bengals) for Sara in Clapham - see review
6. Mikey and Dillon (king charles spaniels) for Mark and Kris in Horley - see review
7. Kiba (male cat, indoor) for Isabelle in Burgess Hill - see review
8. Fitz and Hemingway (male bengal cats, outdoor) for Sara in Clapham - see review
9. Sparkles (male cat - outdoor) for Charles and Cassie in Balham-See reference
10. Iko (male labradoodle -28kg), Yolo (male indoor cat) and fish for Andrew in Hampstead, house: three sits, additional sit booked for 2018 -See reference
11. Misty (female kitten to cat-outdoor) for Naz in Canada Water - house : three sits, invited back a fourth time but I was not available:
Reference: ''Jeanine did a fab job of house sitting and looking after my cat for 2 weeks over Easter break. She asked a lot of good questions when we met so I felt comfortable she would take good care of my cat. She also sent me lots of pictures of my pet keeping me at ease, while on holiday. I loved the regular updates and beautiful pictures and videos. My cat did develop a bad habit of giving Jeanine gifts that were alive while I was away, but I knew it meant she was happy with her house sitter. Jeanine did a fine job and Misty was briefly sad when she left. I returned to a clean house and a happy cat and I am extremely grateful! I'd happily have Jeanine house sit for me again!''NAZ (London England, Mar 2016)
12. Hamish (older male cat-outdoor) for David in Muswell Hill - house: two sits:
Reference: ''Jeanine has now sat for us twice - first in April 2016 and then August 2017. She has been brilliant both times. Our cat Hamish was clearly very well looked after and Jeanine was great at keeping in touch with us. She left the house immaculate on departure. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending her and would be happy to give a reference for her, by phone, if asked.''DAVID (Muswell Hill London , Apr 2016)
13. Mish (female indoor cat) for Irina in Greenwich - had never been left with a sitter before, flat with concierge - four sits:
Reference: ''Jeanine looked after my four year old cat and flat for two weeks in August 2017 and did a fantastic job!!! My cat is a little shy and nervous around strangers, but he warmed to Jeanine immediately. Honestly speaking, I think he is even missing her now! Jeanine sent me daily updates on how my cat was, which was very important for me and help to settle the nerves. Upon my return I found the flat in perfect condition and also clean and tidy. I would definitely recommend Jeanine's services and look forward to seeing her again.''IRINA (London , Aug 2017)
14. Bertie (male parson russell terrier) and gecko for Nicola and Mark in Edinburgh - had never been left with a sitter before, house:Reference: ''Jeanine was fantastic - friendly and conscientious, giving us regular updates while we were away. We came back to a tidy house and very happy relaxed dog. It was great to be able to relax and enjoy our holiday knowing Bertie was in safe hands. Thanks Jeanine!''NICOLA & MARK (Edinburgh Scotland, Jul 2017)
15. Tinks (female indoor cat) for Angela in Brighton, house - invited back to sit but not available:Reference: ''Great sitter - wholly recommended 100% - will def request jeanines help again Thank you so much ! Ang & Tinks'' ANGELA (Brighton England, Jun 2017)
16. Igor and Elfin (male cats-outdoor) for Caroline in Archway, flat - invited back to sit but was not available:
Reference: ''Jeanine looked after our two three year old cats and home for two weeks last year. I love my cats very much and it was important for me to find a responsible and genuinely caring person to care for them. Additionally it was important to me to have someone who I could rely on to look after and respect our property. Jeanine did a wonderful job. She texted me on her first day to confirm she was at the house and the cats were ok. When we arrived home our cats were calm and happy. Our female, Elfin is a very shy any strangers but Jeanine had clearly taken the time and got to know her. Our home was also clean and tidy up on our return. I would certainly recommend Jeanine's services''. Caroline, Archway, March 16
Additional pets I have looked after - Cody (male cavachon) for Michelle in Esher
Olive the Akita and Bailey the Pomeranian (dogs) for Chantelle in Cheltenham
Reviews (15)
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Rita - Friern Barnet, United Kingdom
03 August - 04 August 2018
This is the first time we've used a pet sitter as well as Trusted Housesitters and Jeanine lived up to all our expectations. She was brilliant, gentle and caring with our 2 yorkies, who loved her and have become very attached to her in the short time she was pet sitting, and both of them were ve...
This is the first time we've used a pet sitter as well as Trusted Housesitters and Jeanine lived up to all our expectations. She was brilliant, gentle and caring with our 2 yorkies, who loved her and have become very attached to her in the short time she was pet sitting, and both of them were very calm and relaxed when we returned. One yorkie has cataracts so is blind and she was in very safe hands with Jeanine who checked full details with us beforehand so she had strategies to help. Both dogs took full advantage of all the cuddles and attention. Also, as it was in the middle of the heatwave, she even cooled them down with moist tea towels. We really appreciated the updates by texts and photos sent during her stay so we were so much relaxed being away and not worrying about them. On our return she had cleaned everything and stripped the bed so we didn't have to do it, which is so thoughtful. We would not hesitate to invite Jeanine for any future sits.
- Organised
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- Reliable
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- Self-sufficient
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- Tidy
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- Pet care
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Sara - Twickenham, United Kingdom
19 July - 02 August 2018
Jeanine cared for our nearly 14 year old Labrador with amazing compassion and tenderness, the heat was extreme so she used cool towels to cool him off and was very understanding of his needs. He was unwell whilst she was looking after him, but she had no problem with contacting the vet and gettin...
Jeanine cared for our nearly 14 year old Labrador with amazing compassion and tenderness, the heat was extreme so she used cool towels to cool him off and was very understanding of his needs. He was unwell whilst she was looking after him, but she had no problem with contacting the vet and getting him there. Jeanine sent regular updates and photographs so it was comforting for us to know that Benson was in very good hands. Our house was clean and tidy when we got back too. All in all I would absolutely recommend Jeanine to care for animals and your home.
- Organised
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- Reliable
-
- Self-sufficient
-
- Tidy
-
- Pet care
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Response from Jeanine
Thanks Sara for the great review - I also forgot to mention in your feedback the beautiful flowers that arrived for me with a thank you card during my stay! Am just going to add a few things I did in caring for Benson for any future owners with elderly dogs, also for my own reference for future dog care
Medical care: interdigital cyst
Soaked this once or twice a day with Epsom salts and salts, as well as hydrogen peroxide, then covered it in a sock for walks
Medical care: pills
I contacted the vets to check the dosage and was told the cymalgex could be increased (the vet's oversight), I walked down to the vets that day to return the lower dose and collect the larger pills, resulting in more comfortable walking for Benson. I rang the vets regularly to check anything I was unsure of
Heatwave care
- Moved the fan downstairs from the guest room to ventilate the room with his bed inside - truly soaring temperatures
- Bought him his own flannel and washed him with cool water to keep his temperature down
- Suggested ordering a cool mat - Sara you very kindly bought this straight away
Massage:
Due to Benson's arthritis I massaged his legs regularly to help with his walking - gentle massage only
Wellbeing:
I played Benson opera every day to keep his spirits high, and as he is going deaf he can only hear high pitches. I noticed which pieces he responded to then played these for him which had a visibly calming effect. I spent a lot of time sitting with Benson on the floor and stroking him to ensure he was comforted and happy - mostly gently brushing his head with a doggy brush I bought him which he loved - and alternating this with his regular brush
Walking:
I kept a note of the times that he limped versus walking with ease and acted accordingly, eg allowing more time for his pills to take effect before walking him and keeping an eye on when I had put his sock on. I walked him twice a day opposite and occasionally a third time for a 'comfort wee' last thing
Nursing
Benson got diarrhea during my stay so I washed off the rugs using the garden hose and cleaned them to ensure there was no residue left. I spent time caring for Benson in the days afterwards, and slept downstairs with him on the couch to ensure he was better. I prepared rice for him after the food the vets had prescribed had ran out until his stool and tummy were back to normal, and re-integrated his Weetabix gradually so as not to risk upsetting his stomach.
Other
I washed and boiled out his water bowl regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria due to his age -
Judith - Truro, United Kingdom
12 July - 17 July 2018
Jeanine was everything we had hoped for in a pet sitter and more. She is so friendly and we soon felt we had known her for ages and our three pets took to her straight away. Whilst we were away she sent photos every day and kept us updated. One of the dogs was a little unwell one day and she ph...
Jeanine was everything we had hoped for in a pet sitter and more. She is so friendly and we soon felt we had known her for ages and our three pets took to her straight away. Whilst we were away she sent photos every day and kept us updated. One of the dogs was a little unwell one day and she phoned the vets and dealt with the problem. As it was very hot she put cold towels on their backs to cool them down. We were able to relax knowing they were in safe hands and being thoroughly spoilt! When we returned home she had cleaned the house and done all the washing. 5 Stars all round!
- Organised
-
- Reliable
-
- Self-sufficient
-
- Tidy
-
- Pet care
-
About Jeanine
*Standard vs enhanced as I already have a full and clear DBS- for enhanced the site asks for an additional fee for police clearance on a different website-as a teacher I already have this
*Please include the time you will be leaving and coming back on your listing, ie if you will be coming home late. Please also include your preferred handover arrangements*
Dog Breeds Cared For have included: Labradors (x4 separately) , Whippet, Parson Terrier, Bison Frise, Maltese Cross, Labradoodle, Collie, Springer Spaniel, Cyprus Poodles, Yorkshire Terrier, Golden Doodle, Dachsund, Cavachon, Pomeranian, Akita
Ages and needs of dogs looked after: puppies, teens, elderly dogs, blind and partially deaf dogs
Types of cat cared for: Indoor and outdoor cats, cats who need to be let in and out, lap cats and non lap cats
Cat breeds cared for : bengals, ragdoll, short haired, moggies
Ages and needs......
*Standard vs enhanced as I already have a full and clear DBS- for enhanced the site asks for an additional fee for police clearance on a different website-as a teacher I already have this
*Please include the time you will be leaving and coming back on your listing, ie if you will be coming home late. Please also include your preferred handover arrangements*
Dog Breeds Cared For have included: Labradors (x4 separately) , Whippet, Parson Terrier, Bison Frise, Maltese Cross, Labradoodle, Collie, Springer Spaniel, Cyprus Poodles, Yorkshire Terrier, Golden Doodle, Dachsund, Cavachon, Pomeranian, Akita
Ages and needs of dogs looked after: puppies, teens, elderly dogs, blind and partially deaf dogs
Types of cat cared for: Indoor and outdoor cats, cats who need to be let in and out, lap cats and non lap cats
Cat breeds cared for : bengals, ragdoll, short haired, moggies
Ages and needs of cats looked after:
Kitten, elderly, teenagers, cat with a broken leg kept in a large crate until leg healed
Dog Knowledge and Experience: Which foods are toxic to dogs, Awareness of not overfeeding/ overtreating dogs for weight gain, dog tail positions, walking safely on a lead including pavement awareness, lead training if pulling on a lead, when to walk a dog in the summer months including shade and hydration, how to pick up a dog, looking after puppies including keeping chewable items out of reach, how to calm anxious dogs (including thunder vests), how to reassure noise sensitive dogs within the home, food, water and bowl(s) hygiene, collar safety, summer dog care including cooling techniques, how to bath a dog, general and medical eye cleaning, doggy massage, administering tablets (crushed and uncrushed), how to clean interdigital cysts, how to prepare a bland diet for diarrhoea, taking a dog to the vets, taking dogs on public transport, using classical music to soothe anxious dogs, having a dog or dogs sleep on the bed
Cat Knowledge and Experience: Which foods are toxic to cats, cat tail positions, cat communication (slow blinking, winking, signs of trust), reading to nervous or shy cats to help them adjust, how to empty and replenish a litter box, how to stroke a cat, how to replenish an automatic cat feeder, cat cooling methods in the summer, general health and safety including keeping windows close or ajar for indoor cats, food, water and bowl(s) hygiene, applying suntan lotion to cat's ears and nose, eye cleaning, cleaning bite wounds with water and saline, cleaning wounds for rescue cat, rescuing a cat and co-ordination his safe transfer to Cats Protection with the vets (he would otherwise have been put down)
Specialisms/majority of experience: Owners leaving their pet(s) with a sitter for the first time, anxious pets, using classical music to calm and soothe pets, due to musical training and knowledge (BA Hons, PGCE Music)
Style: Hands-on, attentive, communicative
Qualifications: BA Hons, PGCE, CELTA, Dip Acting
Languages: English (native), French (degree), German and Italian (conversational)
Additional skills: piano
Cities and towns lived in : London, Cheltenham, Cardiff, Paris, Rome, Prague
Cities visited/ familiar with: Barcelona, Valencia, New York
Introduction: I've been petsitting since 2013 and am a kind, diligent and reliable pet sitter - I would definitely describe myself as more of a 'pet nanny' in terms of attentiveness and care. I am a professional petsitter elsewhere and am using this site for travel abroad later this year - via petsitting. I am a repeat and preferred sitter for five different pet owners, and am both a cat and a dog person, primarily focused on the comfort and happiness of your pet as well as your peace of mind. As a trained and experienced teacher as well as an education manager, I have an organised approach and like to stick to your pets' routine so that they are happy and healthy. I maintain regular contact and send both photo and video updates. I have excellent references and am a non smoker. I thought this might be a good way to tell you about me: (please scroll down for a references)
1. Why should I give you the keys to look after my house?
- As a trained and experienced teacher I am very responsible, resourceful, proactive, diligent and hardworking in my approach to petsitting, and take lots of notes on how owners like things to be done. I am a non smoker and will leave your house or flat both clean and tidy when I leave. I will send you regular updates to let you know all is well for your peace of mind.
2. How do we know we can trust you to look after our home and pet(s)?
- I am a UK citizen and all of my family live here, so I would be able to give you an address in this country as well as a copy of my passport and up to date, clear CRB. I have lots of excellent references which I am happy for you to follow up.
3. Do you like pets?
- I haven't got any of my own pets, but really love both cats and dogs, and animals respond well to me. I have a sister who has two dogs, a cat and two rabbits so is able to tell me anything additional I need to know or check. As a trained teacher I am extremely nurturing and have had experience both teaching and childminding very young children (from a very early age myself), which I find also translates well to looking after animals.
4. What have you learned so far in looking after pets?
- Each animal is very much an individual with different needs and preferences. I always takes notes on their routine and how they like their food, and am sensitive to the fact that they might have separation anxiety. If there is anything I am unsure of I always research it or ring a vet to double check. I make sure their litter is kept clean (for cats) and that the animal is happy - for example if looking after a cat I always check the position of their tail as an indication of how they are feeling- dogs also. I like to find out which toys they like, and which treats they enjoy. I don't like to leave an animal on its own for too long and always ensure they are comfortable and content.
5. What differences have you found in looking after both cats and dogs?
- I know to be extremely vigilant when walking dogs because of other dogs which may attack them, and I am experienced in dogwalking - I also know to keep a firm hold on a lead and to have it wrapped round my wrist. I have excellent hearing for oncoming cars (eg in country lanes) and have a gentle but firm approach. I am vigilant also when walking a dog in built up areas because of what might be on the ground, and recently a pond was giving dogs that paddled in it diarrhoea so I knew to avoid it. I am aware of the foods which are toxic to dogs and cats respectively, and that their tail positions mean different things for each -e.g a wagging tail does not mean the same thing for a dog and a cat. I know how to safely pick up both a dog and a cat if needed.
6. Do you have experience of taking an animal in your care to the vets?
- Yes, I have taken Tilly the kitten to the vets to have her nails trimmed. I also made an appointment for Mitford to go to the vets for an eye infection, and took her - she had her eyes examined and dye put in which was traumatic for her but I comforted her throughout.
7. Have you had experience of giving a pet medicine and/ or dealing with illness?
- Yes, many times. I have had experience of giving daily antibiotics to Bertie the dog and looking after Mish the cat when he had a broken leg. I also cleaned Mitford's eyes daily (please see above) and applied her eyedrops three times a day for five days until the infection had cleared. I have treated dogs' diarrhoea with a bland chicken and rice diet until they are better - I am extremely resilient and hands-on. I recently looked after an elderly Labrador who was on lots of medication, and worked out how to time the pills so that he could walk more easily round the park - this was also noted by a neighbour compared to a previous petsitter.
8. What experience do you have of looking after a property?
-Having rented on my own for several years (after house sharing in my 20s) I'm conscious of taking responsibility for a property and all that entails - having an awareness of security, making sure doors are locked and appliances are switched off, keeping bill costs down, emptying the household rubbish and recycling, and generally keeping the house clean, tidy and safe.
9. What do you do for a living and how is your career history relevant to house and pet sitting?
- I own and operate an education company, having worked as a teacher for 19 years. This experience has included several years of primary and secondary supply teaching, requiring the ability to follow instructions, be flexible and quickly adapt to new schools and classroom systems whilst respecting what was already in place - I find this skill to be very transferable to house and pet sitting.
10. How have you demonstrated being responsible in the past?
- Apart from running my company, I have been an education manager for several companies on their summer centres, including pastoral responsibilities with children staying away from home in another country, requiring a high level of responsibility. I am also an aunty to two lovely little girls, and having grown up with two much younger sisters I have always been very hands-on and responsible. I was often asked to babysit and childmind for friends and family at a young age due to being mature for my age, and am the second oldest of four children.
11. Describe how you treat your own home
- I am clean living, don't smoke, hardly drink and don't play loud music. I am also very careful with stains and like to keep a clean living environment. I check everything meticulously before both going out and going to bed.
12. What are 3 relevant skills?
- adaptable
- forward-planning
- proactive
13. What are the personal qualities that make you suitable for house and pet sitting?
- responsible
- caring
- diligent
- patient
14. Describe your personality and how you behave if you are stressed or tired - I have been trained to 'keep calm under pressure' and will always speak calmly and kindly to pets in my care, always playing down any accidents or spillages - a skill learned from teaching and childcare. Having babysat for my nieces since their birth I am used to being woken up very early for feeding, however do need my sleep also to prevent illness
15. What little touches can you offer which make you stand out?- I will leave your house tidy with a light clean ( versus deep clean/professional standard) with the rubbish and recycling emptied, and will wash all bedding and towels I have used or strip the beds depending on your preference. If I am ill I will do my best to leave it as clean as possible.
16. Is there anything else you would like to add?
- I'm a good communicator so will stay in regular contact with you and let you know all is well - photos and videos of your pet are also fine, and I love taking photos! As a musician I like to play cat music or classical music to help soothe pets - I also always leave the TV or radio on for pets if they are left alone. I am kind and loving towards pets and like to ensure they are happy - there are always lots of cuddles on the couch and I both talk to them and praise them (eg on walks) - as well as sing and tell them stories! I'm aware of food hygiene and always check food is in date/within the recommended number of days once opened - I also keep an eye of pets' preferred flavours of food from selection packs, and general eating preferences. I have previously bought a coat for a dog in winter who had recently had his fur trimmed, and a doggy rope toy for a dog who liked tug of war - I also like to pick up paper bags in shops for cats in my care! I am always conscious of maintaining a comfortable environment for pets, ensuring it is an ambient temperature and that tv and music is not too loud. Lastly I was brought up in the Cotswolds and have also lived in the city, so can adapt to different environments very well.
Why I want to house sit
I've been petsitting for several years as I love spending time with animals in their owners' absence. I have had lots of experience with pets being left alone for the very first time, and the owners have given me excellent references, having felt very happy with my pet care. I love looking after animals, who also look after me!
My experience
Petsitting history (most recent first)
1. Mish (ragdoll cat), Kensington for Irina (regular client-see reference below)
2. Jack and Roxy (Yorkshire terriers) for Rita in Friern Barnet-review pending
3. Benson (senior black labrador) for Sara in Twickenham - see review
4. Marley and Benji (Cyprus poodles) and Oscar the cat for Judith in Cornwall - see review
5. Winter (whippet puppy)
Egor and Elfin (cats), Archway - see review
2. Dido (female dachsund), Barnes - see review
3. Evie (female labrador), Camberley - see reference
4. Woody (male labrador) and Tess (cat) for Ali in Reigate - see review
5.Mitford (female labrador), Hemi and Fitz (bengals) for Sara in Clapham - see review
6. Mikey and Dillon (king charles spaniels) for Mark and Kris in Horley - see review
7. Kiba (male cat, indoor) for Isabelle in Burgess Hill - see review
8. Fitz and Hemingway (male bengal cats, outdoor) for Sara in Clapham - see review
9. Sparkles (male cat - outdoor) for Charles and Cassie in Balham-See reference
10. Iko (male labradoodle -28kg), Yolo (male indoor cat) and fish for Andrew in Hampstead, house: three sits, additional sit booked for 2018 -See reference
11. Misty (female kitten to cat-outdoor) for Naz in Canada Water - house : three sits, invited back a fourth time but I was not available:
Reference: ''Jeanine did a fab job of house sitting and looking after my cat for 2 weeks over Easter break. She asked a lot of good questions when we met so I felt comfortable she would take good care of my cat. She also sent me lots of pictures of my pet keeping me at ease, while on holiday. I loved the regular updates and beautiful pictures and videos. My cat did develop a bad habit of giving Jeanine gifts that were alive while I was away, but I knew it meant she was happy with her house sitter. Jeanine did a fine job and Misty was briefly sad when she left. I returned to a clean house and a happy cat and I am extremely grateful! I'd happily have Jeanine house sit for me again!''NAZ (London England, Mar 2016)
12. Hamish (older male cat-outdoor) for David in Muswell Hill - house: two sits:
Reference: ''Jeanine has now sat for us twice - first in April 2016 and then August 2017. She has been brilliant both times. Our cat Hamish was clearly very well looked after and Jeanine was great at keeping in touch with us. She left the house immaculate on departure. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending her and would be happy to give a reference for her, by phone, if asked.''DAVID (Muswell Hill London , Apr 2016)
13. Mish (female indoor cat) for Irina in Greenwich - had never been left with a sitter before, flat with concierge - four sits:
Reference: ''Jeanine looked after my four year old cat and flat for two weeks in August 2017 and did a fantastic job!!! My cat is a little shy and nervous around strangers, but he warmed to Jeanine immediately. Honestly speaking, I think he is even missing her now! Jeanine sent me daily updates on how my cat was, which was very important for me and help to settle the nerves. Upon my return I found the flat in perfect condition and also clean and tidy. I would definitely recommend Jeanine's services and look forward to seeing her again.''IRINA (London , Aug 2017)
14. Bertie (male parson russell terrier) and gecko for Nicola and Mark in Edinburgh - had never been left with a sitter before, house:Reference: ''Jeanine was fantastic - friendly and conscientious, giving us regular updates while we were away. We came back to a tidy house and very happy relaxed dog. It was great to be able to relax and enjoy our holiday knowing Bertie was in safe hands. Thanks Jeanine!''NICOLA & MARK (Edinburgh Scotland, Jul 2017)
15. Tinks (female indoor cat) for Angela in Brighton, house - invited back to sit but not available:Reference: ''Great sitter - wholly recommended 100% - will def request jeanines help again Thank you so much ! Ang & Tinks'' ANGELA (Brighton England, Jun 2017)
16. Igor and Elfin (male cats-outdoor) for Caroline in Archway, flat - invited back to sit but was not available:
Reference: ''Jeanine looked after our two three year old cats and home for two weeks last year. I love my cats very much and it was important for me to find a responsible and genuinely caring person to care for them. Additionally it was important to me to have someone who I could rely on to look after and respect our property. Jeanine did a wonderful job. She texted me on her first day to confirm she was at the house and the cats were ok. When we arrived home our cats were calm and happy. Our female, Elfin is a very shy any strangers but Jeanine had clearly taken the time and got to know her. Our home was also clean and tidy up on our return. I would certainly recommend Jeanine's services''. Caroline, Archway, March 16
Additional pets I have looked after - Cody (male cavachon) for Michelle in Esher
Olive the Akita and Bailey the Pomeranian (dogs) for Chantelle in Cheltenham
Verifications
Verification level
Standard level
Email Address, Phone Number, External references (8), Identity & Document Check
All Standard Verification checks are carried out by a specialist 3rd Party
Animal Care Experience
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Dogs
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Cats
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Reptiles
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Fish
Availability
Preferred Countries
Profile Details
Age
Occupation
Travelling as a
Previous house sitting experience
Member benefits
Member since
House & pet sitting timeline
Jeanine has done 16 house sits since 2015
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Friern BarnetUnited KingdomAug 2018 -
TwickenhamUnited KingdomJul - Aug 2018 -
TruroUnited KingdomJul 2018 -
Tufnell ParkUnited KingdomJul 2018 -
WokingUnited KingdomJun - Jul 2018 -
Haywards HeathUnited KingdomJun 2018 -
LondonUnited KingdomJun 2018 -
LondonUnited KingdomMay - Jun 2018 -
BarnesUnited KingdomMay 2018 -
LondonUnited KingdomApr - May 2018 -
LondonUnited KingdomApr 2018 -
ReigateUnited KingdomMar - Apr 2018 -
LondonUnited KingdomMar 2018 -
HorleyUnited KingdomMar 2018 -
Burgess HillUnited KingdomMar 2018 -
LondonUnited KingdomFeb 2018
