Our country retreat where humans are also welcome
Introduction
Hi I'm Keith and I live In the west of Northern Ireland. I'm originally from the NE of Scotland and moved here 15 years ago with my wife who has since passed away. Now retired I have more time to travel to so I'm away several times a year although never for long periods as I miss the dogs. One of my neighbours has been looking after the dogs previously but unfortunately that is coming to an end so I need to find a sitter. Both my wife and I have had a long interest in dog showing, breeding and in my wife's case judging at the highest level in the UK and overseas. We have had much success in the show ring breeding several UK , Irish and International champions. This part of life is now over but I still have 3 dogs. When we were showing we had Boxers, Boston Terriers and Lowchens but in retirement we wanted something different hence what we have now. A good friend sometimes accompanies me on holidays and her dog Lady would be here when we travel together so in that case 4 dogs would be here to be looked after. The sitter could be a single person, a couple or a family. They should like a quiet country setting with privacy but which is within easy access to fabulous scenery, activities and tourist attractions. The dogs can be left in their runs for part of the day quite happily and love socialising both inside and out and are used to their creature comforts. As well as walks they love running around in the garden which is escape proof so get exercise there as well.
Show more...Home & location
I live in a large house of circa 2750 sq ft. in the countryside close to the border between counties Fermanagh and Tyrone in N Ireland and only 20 mins from County Monaghan in the Republic of Ireland. I have a large "dog proof" garden where they can safely exercise. The house is up a country lane which has approx 20 properties along its length with plenty space between them. There are lovely forest trails 2-3 miles away where I walk the dogs as well as walking up the lane. The nearest village/small town is Fivemiletown which is 3 1/2 miles away and has usual array of local shops and 2 small supermarkets. The nearest large town is Enniskillen which is 25 mins drive away with Omagh around 35 mins drive both of which have plenty shopping including major supermarkets. Belfast is just over an hour away and Dublin just over 2 hours. County Fermanagh is the Northern Ireland Lake District and a popular spot for those liking walks and water pursuits. Further afield but all within 2 1/2 hour drive are wonderful beaches, and popular places such as the Giants Causeway and the many visitor attractions that Belfast and Dublin have to offer. The house has 4 bedrooms, dressing room, lounge, large kitchen diner, sun/TV room, utility room, dog room where they sleep and where Dennis has a internal run, ensuite shower room, another shower room( for the dogs) and a bathroom with a bath and large walk in shower. Downstairs is floored in porcelain tiles apart from the lounge which has oak flooring all of which is handy for the dogs. Downstairs has underfloor heating with oil fired radiators upstairs. Sitters will live in the house. There is a large garage with 2 internal runs for the larger dogs
Show more...Responsibilities
Our dogs as you would expect have a routine. They can sleep in the dog room in separate crates. However Dennis can sleep in a crate in a bedroom which he enjoys. Aias sleeps in the Sun Room and is joined there by Lady when she is staying. They all get fed in the morning usually around 7to 7-30am but separately in specific places. They also get fed in the afternoon around 2-00pm again separately in specific places. They get treats every time they go into their crate. They get regular exercise in the garden plus walks external to the garden either up the lane on in the forest. One dog per person as far as external exercise is concerned. They are allowed to be loose in the kitchen/sun room and stay there until bed time apart from when I eat when they are put in the sun room or garden as I eat in the kitchen. On fine days they will be all day around the house and in the garden but if I go out they will go in their runs in the garage and house until I return. Obviously the runs will need to be cleaned up and mopped daily and any faeces picked up from the runs and garden and put in the bin. I have a ride on mower for cutting the grass and if that could be attended to at certain times during the year fine but not essential. Bin put out weekly. Indoor plants need watering and outdoor ones if really dry weather but not onerous.
Show more...Meet the pets
Dennis
9 years
Aias
9 years
Luna
8 years
Lady
2 years
Sitter Reviews (9)
Homeowner Reviews (0)
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I can’t flaw this stay. Keith was such a lovely host and ensured I was oriented to the location, the home and his wonderful dogs’ needs. Such a kind gentleman. Luna, Aisa and Dennis are gems! All 3 are brilliant at coming back to you when calling their name. They each have their own personality, which I quickly fell in love with… all have their own things that excite them and all are so affectionate ❤️ If you have thickly feet, wear socks otherwise Luna will lick them til you can’t breath anymore from the laughter. Aisa loved to nudge her head in the crook of your arm to get cosy when on the sofa and Dennis will always find a way to get on your lap.… I will genuinely miss them and especial miss our cuddles on the couch while watching a movie. Keith’s home is perfect… everything is clean, orderly and efficient. Keith kindly took me grocery shopping in the neighbouring town and the local village. He has some lovely stories to share over a cuppa ☺️ Overall a really wonderful stay… and I’d be delighted to go back x
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What a joy it has been to meet Keith and his “three musketeers”. Starting from our application - communication was excellent. We knew what was expected of us and how to get there. Keith was the perfect host - giving us a full rundown on the three dogs and their daily routine. Whilst owners are away it is important that their animals continue to live as they always do. Keith made this so easy with detailed notes to refer to. We felt very reassured and comfortable being left in charge. Keith was so hospitable, cooking us a delicious meal and even taking us for a tour of the area so we felt familiar with the route to the shops etc. never having been in Ireland before, this was so helpful. The house was well set up for us and for the dogs - we all enjoyed each other’s company and I find I’m now missing them all! On Keith’s return, we all enjoyed a meal together and Keith - and his family provided us with hospitality and welcome assistance in what to see and where to go in Ireland. Once again, we not only met someone new, we will also remain friends for many years to come! Thank you Keith - and hugs and love to Lunar, Aias and Dennis! What an awesome trio! 😁☘️
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Keith
