About me:
Ciao, I am an Italian painter living in Maroubra and enjoying the beach and outdoor lifestyle Australia does so well.
I grew up in the Tuscan countryside, spending much of my time on my Uncle or Grandfathers farms. My family always had pets too, so I have been surrounded by animals for as long as I can remember. While painting is my trade, it does not provide me with the sense of joy or purpose that I crave from my work and I am considering a change. When considering what I am most passionate about, animals are certainly up there, and it would be a dream to be able to work with them full-time.
My partner lives nearby in Coogee and also loves animals; she has a 10 year old rescue cat, and has volunteered at Sydney Dogs and Cats Home in the past. She has always been around animals too and will happily assist with walks and cuddles.
I have lots of experience looking after friends pets here in Sydney while they've gone home to Europe for extended periods. These have included cats and dogs, big and small, young and old. I enjoy being active and will happily go for as many walks as your dog requires, tailoring length and intensity appropriately.
About my space:
I live in a sunny, spacious townhouse in Maroubra on a quiet residential street. The house is located less than 10 minutes walk from Maroubra Beach, Broadarrow Reserve off-leash dog park, and many other parks and walking tracks.
I have a fully fenced, secure yard running along the front and side of the house (pictured), perfect for pets yearning outdoor time. The home itself is tiled downstairs, and has wooden floorboards and aircon upstairs, ensuring it is both cool and cosy, and accommodating of accidents! Pets are welcome in all areas of the home, including bed and sofa, though at-home preferences and training will be honoured at your request.
I live with two friends, both Italian also, and both very much animal lovers. We are all in our 30s and are creatures of habit. This habit consists mostly of gym, work, surf, and cooking at home. It is not a party house by any means, and the only ‘session’ you are likely to find is a 6am stretching and meditation session before starting our day. While I do share my home, I will take sole responsibility and care of your pet. They can stay in my bedroom or have free rein of the house and/or garden. There are no other pets residing here.
What I can offer:
Working as a painter I am away from home Mon-Fri from 7am-4pm. Dogs are welcome to stay in the outdoor area or inside, even curled up on my bed if that's their preference :) I can take them for a walk before I start work, and when returning home at 4pm I can give as much time and attention as is required, treating each pet as my own. My weekends are free so I can provide my undivided attention, full-time when required. I am also open to taking care of your pet/s in their own home if that is more agreeable, and my care would extend to any houseplants!
When my partner and I are away, we always enjoy having photos and videos of her cat sent to us, so we can rest easy knowing she is relaxed and well, as we always miss her! I am happy to provide regular updates and photos if you would like, otherwise you can enjoy your time away, confident that I am providing your pet with the best care.
Additional Notes:
I have a car and can provide transport and pick-up/drop-off
I have a 2023 Police Clearance in NSW (required as part of successful permanent visa application)
I have a petcam so I can check-in on pets while I am away
I am experienced and confident administering both oral and topical medications to cats and dogs
I am happy to facilitate meet and greets prior to bookings to ascertain suitable fit
Full refund if canceled before 12:00 p.m. 7 days before the booking, 50% refund afterward.
No refund is payable if the booking is canceled on or after the start date.
Note: All times are based on the sitter’s time zone
Doggy day care and Dog walks always have a flexible cancellation policy:
Full refund if canceled before 12:00 p.m. one day before the booking, 50% refund afterward.
No refund is payable if the booking is canceled on or after the start date.
We couldn’t have asked for a better dog sitter than Alessandro. He took such excellent care of our dog and we will gladly use him again.
We are beyond grateful for Alessandro's exceptional care of our beloved Kelpie, Finn. Finn isn't just a pet to us; he's been our anchor through tough times, bringing smiles even on our darkest days. Entrusting him to someone else is no small feat, but Alessandro went above and beyond.
As Alessandro probably noticed, Finn seems to have boundless energy! Keeping up with him can be challenging, but Alessandro handled it gracefully and patiently. Even during Finn's initial adjustment period and any sickness that followed, Alessandro provided the care and attention Finn needed, easing our worries.
Alessandro, your dedication and understanding mean the world to us. Knowing you treated Finn like family reassures us immensely. Thank you once again for everything!
Take care, Alessandro!
Warm regards,
Alessandro, Andy and Finn.