Clive and Alice Cooper
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2 Tibetan Terriers & 4 cats in Stoke Wake, Dorset, UK

22/11/2021

 
Testimonial from Joanna & Patrick
9th sit: November 2021
8th sit: August 2021
7th sit: May 2019
6th sit: September/October 2018
5th sit: April/May 2018
4th sit: September/October 2017
3rd sit: March 2017
2nd sit: April 2016
1st sit: January 2015
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We have not asked for a reference from Joanna and Patrick this time around; we feel that the fact that they invite us back so often is a testimonial in itself.

You can read their earlier comments by clicking on the links below.
1st Sit Testimonial - January 2015
3rd Sit Testimonial - March 2017

2 Tibetan Terriers & 4 cats in Stoke Wake, Dorset, UK

5/8/2021

 
Testimonial from Joanna & Patrick
8th sit: August 2021
7th sit: May 2019
​6th sit: September/October 2018
5th sit: April/May 2018
4th sit: September/October 2017
3rd sit: March 2017
2nd sit: April 2016
1st sit: January 2015
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Joanna and Patrick have generously provided references for sits we did for them previously.  You can read their earlier comments by clicking on the links below.
1st Sit Testimonial - January 2015
3rd Sit Testimonial - March 2017

1 Terrier dog, 1 cat in Widecombe in the Moor, Devon, UK

4/11/2019

 
Testimonial from Rachel & Heather
6th Sit: October/November 2019
5th Sit: April 2018
4th Sit: March/April 2017
3rd Sit: February 2016 (split sit)
2nd Sit: February/March 2015
1st Sit:  December 2014
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We did not ask for a reference for this sit.

​Rachel and Heather kindly provided very comprehensive testimonials on two previous occasions and y
ou can read their earlier comments by clicking on the links below.
1st Sit Testimonial - March 2015
5th Sit Testimonial - April 2018

Terrier & Chihuahua dogs and an elderly Russian Blue cat in Mesa, Arizona USA

1/9/2019

 

Testimonial from Mary Beth & Tim

Next sit: May - September 2021 - cancelled due to Covid 19 travel restrictions
Next sit: May - September 2020 - cancelled due to Covid 19 travel restrictions

5th sit: June - August 2019
4th sit: July & August 2017
3rd sit: July & August 2016
2nd sit: July & August 2015
1st sit: May 2015
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We are pleased to provide a reference for Clive and Alice Cooper.      

This past summer marks the fourth time in five years that Clive and Ali have been our house sitters for three months each summer. From the very beginning they provided absolutely the highest quality care for our home and pets that we could expect.  They are reliable, resourceful people who can find their way through every challenge encountered in housesitting.

Through the years they have coped gracefully with car troubles, desert monsoons, pool equipment breakdowns, veterinary emergencies, a rattlesnake in the yard, and whatever else has been thrown at them.  This last summer, our ageing pets created extraordinary demands. 

Our very old cat declined suddenly and had to be put down after multiple veterinary consults.  We absolutely trusted their judgment and appreciated their sharing information from the veterinary office quickly and accurately.  They provided video updates which helped us see that it was time to make the tough decision, and they treated our kitty with tender loving care throughout.
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Shortly after this sad event, Clive saw our elderly dog falter and faint.  They rushed her to the emergency vet, where she was diagnosed with congestive heart failure.  Their quick action literally saved her life – only 30% of dogs survive acute heart failure.  They made multiple veterinary visits, sometimes recording the consultation to keep us in the loop.  They picked up prescriptions, worked out a thrice daily medication routine, and made sure that Maya got more frequent breaks outside because of the meds.  She was here to greet us and happy when we arrived home, thanks to them. 

We know that they did all of the same things we would have done, with just as much tenderness.  And somehow in the middle of all of this they put the finishing touches on our rescue chihuahua’s potty training, which had been a very slow process.  We are so grateful for their patience and caring relationship with our pets, no matter how trying.

Our home and car are always in tip top shape when we return, and they appreciate and enjoy our warm weather, sunshine, and desert environment.

We have referred them to others, creating a bit of competition for their services in Arizona.  We introduced them to many of our friends and they have met others in the area on their own.  They are such fun, sociable, and interesting people, and such great raconteurs, that they are much in demand during their time in Mesa. Our only disappointment is that we are always rushing away or returning home so don’t get to see as much of them as we’d like! 

Clive and Ali are fine people who have become cherished friends as well as house sitters.  We feel so fortunate that we found them and that they have been able and willing to return year after year.  We hope to continue that tradition!                                                           
1st sit Testimonial - September 2015
Mary Beth used to run a small dog-minding business from home.  During our time here we have looked after a number of her regular clients.  Click below to read the feedback from one of the dog owners.
Cindy's Testimonial - September 2016
94,73,63,48,47

2 Tibetan Terriers & 4 cats in Stoke Wake, Dorset, UK

28/5/2019

 
Testimonial from Joanna & Patrick
7th sit: May 2019
​6th sit: September/October 2018
5th sit: April/May 2018
4th sit: September/October 2017
3rd sit: March 2017
2nd sit: April 2016
1st sit: January 2015
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1st sit Testimonial - January 2015
3rd sit Testimonial - March 2017
We have become such frequent visitors to Joanna and Patrick's house that it really is like coming home when we sit for them. So much so that when we arrived this time we felt obliged to thank them for taking such good care of 'our' home - and of course 'our' animals!

Once again we have not asked for a reference from Joanna and Patrick as we feel that the fact that they invite us back so often is a testimonial in itself.

You can read their earlier comments by clicking on the links below.
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93, 89, 86, 75, 70, 61, 40

Spanish Shepherd Dog & Mixed Terrier in The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, UK

24/1/2019

 
Testimonial from Moira and John
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6th sit: December 2018/January 2019
5th Sit: January/February 2018
4th Sit: January 2016 (split sit)
3rd Sit: September 2015
2nd Sit: January 2015 (split sit)
1st Sit: August/September 2012

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This was our 6th time sitting for Moira and John and the third house that we have looked after for them!

We only ever ask for written testimonials twice and Moira and John have not only done so but they have also recommended us to their friends.

​In addition, they have also been kind enough to endorse their references on several occasions for other prospective house sits.
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You can read their earlier testimonials by clicking on the buttons below.
1st sit reference 2012
2nd sit reference 2015
91, 80, 55, 49, 41, 22

2 Tibetan Terriers & 2 cats in Stoke Wake, Dorset, UK

20/10/2018

 

Testimonial from Joanna & Patrick

6th sit: September/October 2018
5th sit: April/May 2018
4th sit: September/October 2017
3rd sit: March 2017
2nd sit: April 2016
1st sit: January 2015
This is the 6th occasion that we have been invited to sit by Joanna & Patrick.

We are always delighted to return to their lovely home in Dorset as we have developed a very strong bond with all of the animals.  In addition, Patrick and Joanna have now become good friends and we are already looking forward our next visit.

We have not asked them to write a reference for this most recent sit as they have already written two testimonials for us which you can read by clicking on the links below.
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Extract from post sit email

...​thank you so much for all you have done for us, over the last month. Everything looks so good here
and all the animals of course are very happy, most importantly!
​
1st sit testimonial - January 2015
3rd sit testimonial - Match 2017
89, 86, 75, 70, 61, 40

2 Tibetan Terriers & 2 cats in Stoke Wake, Dorset, UK

20/5/2018

 

Testimonial from Joanna & Patrick

5th sit: April/May 2018
4th sit: September/October 2017
3rd sit: March 2017
2nd sit: April 2016
1st sit: January 2015
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This was our 5th visit to Joanna and Patrick's lovely home in rural Dorset.

We only ever ask home owners to write a maximum of 2 references on our behalf which they have already written.  You can read these reviews by following the links below.

We like to think that the fact that we have been invited back so many times is testament in itself of the value Joanna and Patrick place on our house and pet caring services.  Indeed, like a number of other people, they now book their holidays around our availability and we are very much looking forward to returning to Stoke Wake later in the year.
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1st sit testimonial - January 2015
3rd sit testimonial - March 2017
86

1 Dog, 2 cats & 3 sheep in Widecombe in the Moor, Devon, UK

21/4/2018

 

Testimonial from Rachel & Heather

5th Sit: April 2018
4th Sit: March/April 2017
3rd Sit: February 2016 (split sit)
2nd Sit: February/March 2015
1st Sit:  December 2014
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5 times & counting!

Clive & Ali first came to sit for us in 2014 & they returned this year for the 5th time. 

Last year we recommended them to friends who booked them over Christmas & when they called in for tea we seized the opportunity to discuss our 2018 spring break.  Clive & Ali had a couple of weeks free just after Easter & since it’s a real treat for us to holiday with them in charge of our animals we decided there & then to arrange our trip around their availability!

Our home & our animals are very important to us so it is always reassuring to know that when we go away, the house, sheep, cats and dog are all left safe & sound in Clive & Ali's care.  Our dog Pipit is convinced that they are her own personal playmates - she would be devastated to know that there must be many other dogs who feel exactly the same!

If you have any hesitation about inviting sitters into your home, do yourself - & your pets - a favour; get in touch with Clive and Ali.  They are caring, friendly & highly competent people who will put your mind at ease instantly.  Contact them well in advance though as they are, justifiably, very highly sought after!

85, 71, 56, 43, 39

Click here to read Rachel & Heather's 1st Testimonial

1 Jack Russell, 2 Working Cockers, 1 Wirehaired Dachshund puppy, a rabbit & a fish in The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, UK

10/4/2018

 

Testimonial from Sam & Simon

4th sit: April 2018
3rd sit: April 2017
2nd sit: March/April 2016
1st sit: May 2013
This was our 4th time sitting for Sam & Simon.

We only ever ask for written testimonials twice and Sam & Simon have already done so.  

You can read their earlier testimonials by clicking on the buttons below.

84, 72, 60, 26
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2nd Sit Testimonial - 2016
1st Sit Testimonial - 2013

Black Labrador in Windlesham, Surrey, UK

6/3/2018

 

Testimonial from Hannah & David

3rd sit: February/March 2018
2nd sit: February/March 2017
1st sit: February/March 2016
This was our 3rd time sitting for Hannah and David. 

We only ever ask for written testimonials twice and Hannah and David have not only done so but they have also recommended us to their daughter whose Labrador came to stay during our house sit last year and again in 2018.


You can read their earlier testimonials by clicking on the buttons below.

80, 67, 56
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2017 Reference
2016 Reference
 Extract from pre-sit email received July 2017
"We are looking ahead to February and cannot remember what date you could get to us...Mr Max cannot be looked after by anyone but you when we are away for 4 weeks so please can you let us know when that will be."
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Spanish Shepherd Dog & Mixed Terrier in The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, UK

8/2/2018

 

Testimonial from Moira & John

5th Sit: January/February 2018
4th Sit: January 2016 (split sit)
3rd Sit: September 2015
2nd Sit: January 2015 (split sit)
1st Sit: August/September 2012
This was our 5th time sitting for Moira and John and we are already booked to return at the end of the year.

We only ever ask for written testimonials twice and Moira and John have not only done so but they have also recommended us to their friends.

​In addition, they have also been kind enough to endorse their references on several occasions for other prospective house sits.

You can read their earlier testimonials by clicking on the buttons below.
​

79, 54, 48, 40, 21 
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2nd sit reference - 2015
1st sit reference 2012

2 Tibetan Terriers & 2 cats in Stoke Wake, Dorset, UK

17/10/2017

 

Testimonial from Joanna & Patrick

4th sit: September/October 2017
3rd sit: March 2017
2nd sit: April 2016
1st sit: January 2015
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This was our 4th time sitting for Joanna and Patrick. 

We only ever ask for written testimonials twice and Joanna and Patrick have not only done so, but they have also recommended us to their neighbours. (Who have since booked us to sit for them immediately after our next stay at Joanna and Patrick's).

​In addition, they have also been kind enough to endorse their references on several occasions for other prospective house sits.

You can read their earlier testimonials by clicking on the buttons below.

3rd sit testimonial - March 2017
1st sit testimonial - January 2015
87, 84, 74, 69, 60, 39

Terrier dog & a Russian Blue cat (+ 2 guest cats) in Mesa, Arizona, USA

6/9/2017

 

Testimonial from Mary Beth & Tim

4th sit: July & August 2017
3rd sit: July & August 2016
2nd sit: July & August 2015
1st sit: May 2015
This was the fourth time that Mary Beth and Tim invited us to sit for them.  In addition to the usual house pets, Mary Beth's son's cats came to stay for four weeks during our sit.

The following quote is extracted from an email we received at the end of our most recent sit.
​Thank you, again, for all the ways you go above and beyond...as house sitters...and now as friends.
Click here to read Mary Beth & Tim's full reference from 2015
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Mary Beth runs a small dog-minding business from home.  During our time here we look after a number of her regular clients.
Read a testimonial from one of Mary Beth's clients here
46,47,62,72

2 Working Cockers, 1 Jack Russell, 2 rabbits & 2 goldfish in The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, UK

16/4/2017

 
Testimonial from Sam & Simon

3rd sit: April 2017
2nd sit: March/April 2016
1st sit: May 2013
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​This was our 3rd time sitting for Sam & Simon. 

We only ever ask for written testimonials twice and Sam & Simon have already done so.  Furthermore, they have already booked us to sit for them again in 2018.


You can read their earlier testimonials by clicking on the buttons below.
2016 Testimonial
2013 Testimonial
71, 59, 25 

2 Tibetan Terriers & 2 cats in Stoke Wake, Dorset, UK

23/3/2017

 
Testimonial from Joanna & Patrick

3rd sit: March 2017
2nd sit: April 2016
1st sit: January 2015
People ask us how do we leave our house & animals in the hands of strangers. Well, all I now say is 'Clive and Ali'. A couple who have just finished their third sit for us and are really now considered part of the family.

Our two dogs and cats have never been in such capable hands and even send us updates when we are away. They are all exercised each day both mentally and physically and are on sparkling form for when we return.

Ali has a special knack in handing back the house in even better condition than we left it and Clive is a whizz at solving the everyday problems, especially our smart TV - I think he knows it better than us - phone system, oil tank that empties on their first day and the septic tank which also went on the blink. All sorted with no fuss.

​We couldn't recommend this couple highly enough to look after your animals and property.
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It's a great burden taken off our shoulders for when we go away; they have even taken to telling us when they are free so that we can plan the next trip.
​

Roll on September say the animals.
​

Patrick & Joanna.
Click here to read our 2015 testimonial for Clive & Ali
87, 84, 74, 69, 60, 39

Jack Russell Terrier in Bramshill, Hampshire, UK

7/3/2017

 

Testimonial from Maggie

2nd sit: March 2017
​1st sit: March 2016


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​Another holiday and another chance to catch up with Clive and Ali and leave my cottage and my dog Doodie in their capable hands. 

Going away with no worries is such a great feeling to know that everything will be under control.

When I left my cottage it was tidy, and when I returned it was immaculate….!!  I must go away more often….!!
Click here to read my 1st reference for Clive & Ali
58, 68

Black Labrador in Windlesham, Surrey, UK

2/3/2017

 

Testimonial from Hannah & David

2nd sit: February/March 2017
1st sit: February/March 2016
Clive & Ali spent the month of February looking after our house and black Labrador, for the second year running.

Unfortunately the hot water system broke down the day we left and they were without hot water for at least 2 weeks, which they were so good natured about with no complaints.

We know when they are in our house we have no worries and come back to find everything in apple pie order and a very happy fit dog who they have looked after with loving care.

We hope they will be back again next year.
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Click here to read our 2016 testimonial
56, 67

White Labrador, 2 Jack Russell Terriers (1 puppy) & chickens in Bramshill, Hampshire, UK

14/11/2016

 

Testimonial from Lucy & Shaun

2nd sit: November 2016 - split sit
1st sit: November/December 2015
Extract from post sit email
​"So many thanks once again for looking after everything so well during our visit to USA. The dogs look so well and obviously had a great time with you."
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52, 65
Click here for full 2015 testimonial

American Bulldog & West Highland Terrier in Moñçao, Portugal

18/10/2016

 

Testimonial from Mike & Eli

3rd sit: September/October 2016
2nd sit: November 2014
1st sit: June 2013
This was our 3rd time sitting for Mike and Eli. 

We only ever ask for written testimonials twice and Mike and Eli have done so already. You can read their earlier testimonials by clicking on the buttons below.
Extract from post-sit email

​"Mia was running around this morning checking the bedroom doors looking for you with Gus looking on from the hall steps, they'll be doing that for a few more days I expect; They do miss you both."

"Thank you so much for the great care and love you bestowed on our two once again."
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2014 Reference
2013 Reference
28, 37, 63

3 rescue dogs in Mesa, Arizona, USA

5/9/2016

 
Testimonial from Cindy
Cindy is a day client of Mary Beth & Tim, the home owners in Mesa where we were house sitting.  We visit with her dogs every week day during this and subsequent sits.
3rd sit: July & August 2016
2nd sit: July & August 2015
1st sit: May 2015
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Who does that?  Only Clive and Ali, that’s who!

I first met Clive and Ali, the dog whispers, two years ago when they came to AZ to house/pet sit for my local pet sitters Mary Beth and Tim.  (see link to their testimonial below)

​My first impression was that Clive and Ali love all animals, so I was delighted when they volunteered to continue the day visits to my 3 dogs when my local sitter was on vacation.

On the second day, they arrived at my house and found my elderly husky No Se’ splayed out on the tile floor and unable to right herself.  They immediately called me and when I arrived, 45 minutes later, I found them sitting on the floor with her, talking to her and calming her so that she would not further injure herself.  They helped me get her to her feet, gently coaxing her to allow us to move her.  Later that month, my beloved No Se’ passed over the rainbow bridge, Clive and Ali sent me a beautiful note, expressing their condolences and acknowledging the very special nature of my special girl.  

Who does that?  Only Clive and Ali, that’s who!

Later that summer Clive and Ali returned to AZ for a longer house sit.  They again asked if they could come by and sit my pets.  They were surprised when they came by to visit with me; the pack now included a new rescue that I was having difficulty integrating into my pack. Frankly, I was afraid to work with them on my own due to the volatile nature of their past interactions.  Not only did Clive and Ali fall in love “with my boisterous one”, their affectionate name for him, but they also offered to come by every other night to help me work to unite my pack.  Without hesitation they continued to do that for over a month, until they departed AZ.  I looked forward to the visit of my dog whisperers, not only for the progress we made with the pack, but also because they regaled me with entertaining stories about their incredible life adventures.

Who does that?  Clive and Ali, that’s who!

Fast forward to the summer of 2016, the pack and I anxiously awaited Clive and Ali’s arrival! They immediately volunteered to come by daily to sit the pack.  This time my pack included a new little one, a rescue described as a feral dog.  Little Scarlett really is a little sweetheart, but that personality was buried deep and only seen by me.  By the time they left AZ Scarlett was able to take treats from them and very close to allowing Ali to actually pet her.  With their care and love Scarlett made great progress, learning to accept strangers.  

Who does that?  Only Clive and Ali, that’s who!

I cannot say enough about the level of trust, admiration and respect I have for Clive and Ali.  They are always welcome in my home and by my pack…not an easy feat.  

I can recommend them without hesitation and believe that anyone lucky enough to meet them will have similar stories to share.  
Click here to see Mary Beth & Tim's reference for Clive & Ali

2 Black Labradors in Tisbury, Wiltshire, UK

2/5/2016

 
Testimonial from Donelle & Andrew

​2nd sit: April/May 2016
1st sit: September/October 2015

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Clive and Ali came for a second time to care for Grace and Isabel, our two Labradors, so that we could visit family in the states for a fortnight.

Our ‘girls’ were obviously very happy to see them again and we left knowing they were in good hands.

While we were away our plans changed suddenly and we had to return to the UK for a business meeting. We were home for a few days then left again.

Clive and Ali were wonderfully accommodating and flexible during this stressful period, taking the dogs with them to stay in our tiny holiday cottage so that we didn’t have to worry about them.

​We hope that Clive and Ali continue their nomadic life for some years to come. They are not only the best house/dog sitters we could ever ask for, they are genuinely lovely people and we all look forward to seeing more of them.

Click here to read our 2015 testimonial
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49, 61

2 Tibetan Terriers & 2 Cats in Stoke Wake, Dorset, UK

17/4/2016

 

Testimonial from Joanna & Patrick

2nd sit: April 2016
1st sit: January 2015
Extract from post-sit email
"Thanks so much for everything, not enough words to say how brilliant you both are
at looking after our home and especially the four, 4-legged friends."
Click here to read the full reference from our 1st sit - January 2015
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87, 84, 74, 69, 60, 39

3 Working Cockers & 1 Jack Russell, 2 goldfish & a hamster in The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, UK

4/4/2016

 
Testimonial from Sam & Simon

2nd sit: March/April 2016
1st sit: May 2013
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Clive and Ali revisited our home for a second time Easter 2016 for 2 weeks.  They are both amazing and lovely.  

​We have 4 dogs, (3 working Cockers and a Jack Russell), so it's all quite hard work. We also have a hamster and 2 goldfish.  All were looked after incredibly well. The dogs were spoilt to death and adore Clive and Ali to the point that they pined when they left.  

We were away for two weeks and had regular contact via email, with pictures, updates and even an amazing video of all the animals.  

The house too was well looked after and very clean and tidy, my ironing had even been done!

​I would not hesitate to recommend Clive and Ali to house sit and knowing them the way we do, know that they could undertake pretty much anything.  Hopefully we will have them back here soon if they are not too busy elsewhere.
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Click here to view our 2013 testimonial
25, 59

Jack Russell Terrier in Bramshill, Hampshire, UK

19/3/2016

 
Testimonial from Maggie

1st sit: March 2016
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I really had the bug to go skiing this year, but having a 7 year old Jack Russell called Doodie was always a bit of a problem as I had never trusted anyone to look after him.....

Until I met Clive and Ali who were house sitting for some friends of mine in the village.  After meeting them and then inviting them to meet Doodie I knew everything would be fine.....

So with suitcase packed a few months later I was off.....

During my week away we could Skype which was great for peace of mind, and on my return they shared a fantastic video of Doodie’s week with them. 

I must say I couldn’t recommend them enough.....

Which reminds me to book my next holiday.....
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    All of the comments can be verified as genuine & contact details for home owners are available on request.

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