A Dream Home — With a Dog Flap?
There’s a dream home up for grabs in the Cotswolds this May. Thanks Omaze, who is raising money for Guide Dogs UK. But while the headlines talk ‘views and vaulted ceilings’, we can’t help but wonder: who’s looking after the cat?
With all proceeds going to Guide Dogs UK, it’s a noble cause and a daydream enabler. But before you start Pinterest-boarding kitchen larders and lavender borders, here’s a thought: if you were lucky enough to win, who’d look after your pets while you were off celebrating?
Because whether you’re eyeing the prize or already enjoying rural life, pet care planning is just as important as planning the perfect pantry.
Big Dreams, Bigger Responsibilities
The Omaze campaign is doing a lovely job of reminding us just how desirable rural life is — fresh air, space, and privacy. But if you live in the countryside, or you plan to, you’ll already know that lifestyle comes with a different set of logistics. Especially if you’ve got four-legged (or feathered) family members in the mix.
Dogs in particular thrive with space to roam and time with their people. But they also thrive on routine, mental stimulation, and security; even when you’re away.
Your Countryside Dream Doesn’t Pause When You Travel
Whether it’s a surprise holiday, a trip abroad, or just a visit to the grandchildren, you’ll want to know that your pets, and your property, are in the safest of hands. Here's what many homeowners may overlook when picturing rural life (or just jetting off):
Routines Make Happy Pets
We’re not saying the cat needs a wine cellar, but she’d certainly appreciate someone filling her bowl with tasty morsels and giving her belly rubs while you’re away celebrating. Dogs, cats, and even chickens have expectations. When they’re met with consistency, they feel safe. A professional house sitter follows your pet’s existing routines to the letter: Breakfast at 7:15, chicken coop opened by 8am, and just the right number of bedtime biscuits for the doggies.
Security Isn’t Just About Locks
Rural crime is on the rise, and an occupied home is a safer home. An experienced, professional house sitter does more than feed the dog. They keep a watchful eye on local comings and goings, respond to all kinds of issues, and maintain the rhythm of a lived-in home; lights on, mail brought in, deliveries handled, bins put out, and curtains drawn.
Exercise and Enrichment Matter
Many of the dogs we care for are used to long rambles across fields, quiet woodland paths, or play in enclosed dog fields. We maintain those habits, even introducing foraging games to keep tails wagging and minds ticking over.
A Quick Word on Guide Dogs and the Bigger Picture
Omaze’s support of Guide Dogs UK isn’t just a feel-good detail. It’s a powerful reminder of how deeply pets, especially dogs, shape our lives and our independence. Whether it’s a Labrador guiding someone safely across a road, or a Collie waiting patiently at the gate for your return, dogs offer loyalty, companionship, and comfort in spades.
That’s why we believe in care that honours that bond, even when life takes you elsewhere for a time.
What Makes a Professional House Sitter Different?
We’re often told, “Oh, the neighbours pop in,” or “My cousin does it for free.” That’s lovely, of course, but pets in rural homes often need more than a quick feed and pat.
At A-Breed-Apart, we:
- Provide live-in care so your pets never face a lonely night.
- Understand the quirks of country homes; from Aga ignition quirks to storm-damaged fences.
- Keep your pets happy, your garden watered, your bins out, and your home secure.
- Offer absolute confidentiality and discretion.
And with over 1,000 days of experience house and pet sitting experience, we’ve seen it all. From cat eye injuries, to end-of-life dogs.
Keep Dreaming — We’ve Got the Rest Covered
Whether you're picturing yourself in the Omaze Cotswolds dream home in Cirencester, or already tucked away in a countryside nook, one thing's certain; your pets deserve a slice of that dream too.
At A-Breed-Apart, we provide trusted, experienced house and pet sitting for rural homeowners who love their animals as much as their lifestyle. We work across the Cotswolds and surrounding areas, ensuring pets stay happy, secure, and stress-free while their pet parents travel for business or holiday.
Ready to plan your next trip with confidence? Complete our short Enquiry Form, and let’s make sure your pets are in the best hands because while you’re dreaming big, they deserve the very best too.
Related Reads
Essential Tips for Choosing the Right House Sitter for Your Smallholding
How to Train and Socialise Your Dog for Life in the Countryside
8 Reasons Hiring a Professional Pet Sitter is Better Than Asking a Friend
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