Fiona

Hello! I'm a Scot living in California. I love to come home to the UK at least once a year, settle myself in and imagine I'm living there again! I can't think of a better way to do that than to have animals to care for.
My husband and I have a small rescue ranch in rural San Diego County. Our family currently consists of six goats, six pigs (five potbelly and one Kune Kune), a horse, a donkey, nine chickens, and seven dogs of assorted sizes. We take care of the animals ourselves without assistance, cleaning and feeding twice a day. The dogs live in the house (we'd have the pigs in too if we didn't have so many dogs!) and sleep in bed with us. I understand not everyone wants their dog doing that and would honour your wishes either way. My husband and I are both on the board of the Fallbrook Animal Sanctuary, which rescues and rehomes dogs and cats. We are extremely dedicated, vegan animal lovers and because of the responsibilities we have at home we never travel at the same time. Thus I would be a solo housesitter, though sometimes I do travel with a friend and would check with you first to ask if this would be OK.
I first came to the US in 1981 as a postgraduate student. After attaining my master's degree, I worked as a freelance journalist for 20 years. I now teach Pilates and weight training and keep myself very fit -- capable of taking long walks and strong enough to manage a large dog. Although I don't have any cats at the moment, I have in the past and I love them as much as I do dogs (and pigs and goats and every other species).
I'm very responsible, reliable and trustworthy, and I follow directions well. As I'm new to this platform I don't have any reviews yet, but I can provide references and/or Airbnb reviews that demonstrate I'm a good guest in other people's homes.
I would be honoured and very grateful to have the opportunity to stay in your home and care for your loved ones.