personHouse sitter

James

Every pet is unique. I'm all ears

Picture of House Sitter, House Minder and Pet Sitter at House Sitters America, United States. User Every pet is unique. I'm all ears

About me

personSingle

60's, Retired Disney Cast Member

Every pet is unique. I'm all ears. I like to think I’m tuned into animals’ needs—something of an empath. My connection with them goes way back; my mother used to say I had a special bond with animals

sellRates
From $35/day or $225/week

The fee I ask is just to help cover essentials like travel and day-to-day costs while I’m caring ... Read moreThe fee I ask is just to help cover essentials like travel and day-to-day costs while I’m caring for your home and pets. If I were in a place to offer this care without any charge, I truly would it's something I love deeply. In terms of fulfillment, I’m already rich.

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I’m James—a retired Disney Cast Member turned full-time traveler, lifelong animal empath. My connection with animals started young—my mother used to say I had an uncanny way with them as early as age three. That bond has only deepened over the years and become a guiding force in how I live, care, and connect.

After retiring, I began house and pet sitting, and it’s been one of the most fulfilling chapters of my life. I’ve cared for beloved pets across the globe, each one with their own ... Read more
I’m James—a retired Disney Cast Member turned full-time traveler, lifelong animal empath. My connection with animals started young—my mother used to say I had an uncanny way with them as early as age three. That bond has only deepened over the years and become a guiding force in how I live, care, and connect.

After retiring, I began house and pet sitting, and it’s been one of the most fulfilling chapters of my life. I’ve cared for beloved pets across the globe, each one with their own quirks, routines, and charm. My own cat, Mully—who passed in 2020—was not just a companion but a connector, drawing in a whole community of neighborhood cats who continued visiting long after he was gone, offering their quiet company in ways that still move me.

My animal encounters have run the gamut—from a neighbor’s 22-year-old turtle to a family of ducks who turned my front yard into their annual vacation retreat. I’ve trained squirrels (they’re bright, opinionated, and highly food-motivated), and even welcomed a pair of coyotes who raised their two pups in the brush behind my home. They peacefully coexisted with the local cats, including my own, without a single incident. Nature knows when it’s respected.

And then there’s the raccoon story. One spring, a mother raccoon decided I was trustworthy enough to introduce me to her seven babies—right on my property. I didn’t feed or interfere; I just watched from a respectful distance as she raised them under the stars. It was one of the most beautiful, National Geographic-level things I’ve ever witnessed. (Video proof available upon request, and yes, it's adorable.)

Animals just seem to find me—and I’m grateful every time. Friends often joke that my home looks untouched, like a model unit in a quiet retirement village. I’m a non-smoker, rarely drink, and live a peaceful, low-impact lifestyle, which makes me a reliable and respectful guest in your home.

Thank you for considering me to care for your pets and space. I’d love to hear more about your crew—quirks, routines, and cuddle preferences included. Questions welcome!

Warmly,
James

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Pet care

petsWilling to care for these pets

DogsDogs
CatsCats
FishFish
BirdsBirds
Rabbits/Guinea PigsRabbits/Guinea Pigs
Chickens/Ducks/GeeseChickens/Ducks/Geese
Farm AnimalsFarm Animals
HorsesHorses
ReptilesReptiles

agricultureFarm experience

See reviews

Trust

Platinum member36 months+
reviews5 star reviews

Availability

eventNext 6 months

May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct

eventCurrent bookings

2025: 13 May - 10 Jul | 20 Jul - 5 Aug | 4-27 Sep

chairOn a house-sit right now

Preferences

scheduleHouse sit duration

0 - 1 week, 1 - 2 weeks, 2 - 4 weeks, 1 - 2 months, 2 months +

where_to_votePreferred locations

Anywhere in the United States


Reviews (16)

James was the perfect sitter for Tato and Tillie! He was so caring and loved being with my girls, he did things around the house that I would never ask anyone to do, like buff out scratches on my car. He kept me up to date on everything, even if I didn't respond from my time difference in Europe. He definitely set the bar high for all dog sitters out there, he made Tato and Tillie his priority and I can see why he has so many repeat clients. I would love for him to sit here again!
Thank you Julie for such kindness. I certainly bonded with the girls and hope to see them again.💕
James is an enthusiastic housesitter and is willing to take on any responsibility with a smile on his face. He befriended all our pets, and probably took better care of them (dog, cat, chickens) than we normally do. We were in Italy for 16 days and he kept us abreast of all home activities through WhatsApp almost daily. We hope he is available again when we might need him.
I'm so grateful for the time I spent with your wonderful furred and feathered family. It was truly a joy, and so easy to grow fond of each of them. Thank you for the opportunity—it meant a lot to me.
1 of 3 reviews from this owner
It was wonderful to have James back for the third time! James has a really special bond with my cats and I know I can trust him to take excellent care of them and my home. I’d be happy to have James return for a sit any time!
Thank you Leah, You're 2 boys hold a special place in my heart ❤️
This was our first time using House Sitters America, and James immediately put our minds at ease. We couldn’t have asked for a better person to care for our home and pets. James truly went above and beyond, showering our three cats and one dog with love and attention. He made sure they felt safe and comfortable, and it was clear how much he cared for them. He took our dog on daily walks around the neighborhood. He also sent update photos. James also took great care of our house plants and ... MoreThis was our first time using House Sitters America, and James immediately put our minds at ease. We couldn’t have asked for a better person to care for our home and pets. James truly went above and beyond, showering our three cats and one dog with love and attention. He made sure they felt safe and comfortable, and it was clear how much he cared for them. He took our dog on daily walks around the neighborhood. He also sent update photos. James also took great care of our house plants and handled any issues that arose with ease. We even entrusted him with our car, and he treated it as carefully as he did everything else. His communication was excellent throughout, and we felt completely at ease knowing he was looking after our home and animals. We highly recommend James!

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Thank you so much for your thoughtful and kind words! It was an absolute pleasure caring for your home and your wonderful pets. Your three cats and sweet dog made my time there so enjoyable—each of them has such a unique and charming personality! I’m glad the photo updates helped put your minds at ... MoreThank you so much for your thoughtful and kind words! It was an absolute pleasure caring for your home and your wonderful pets. Your three cats and sweet dog made my time there so enjoyable—each of them has such a unique and charming personality! I’m glad the photo updates helped put your minds at ease, and I truly enjoyed our daily walks through the neighborhood. Your trust in me, from caring for your house plants to using your car, means a great deal, and I’m happy everything was to your satisfaction. It was a privilege to look after your home and furry family, and I’d be delighted to help again anytime you need. Thank you for the warm recommendation!

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James shared that he doesn't tend to to house sits for shorter periods of time, so we are grateful that he made an exception for us. It was obvious from our initial correspondence that he simply loves being with animals. The weather wasn't fantastic during his stay, lots of rain and even a three hour power outage, but he took all of this in stride. The dogs and house cats got lots of inside TLC during the rain, and long walks on the days it was nice. James, like all of our other sitters, took ... MoreJames shared that he doesn't tend to to house sits for shorter periods of time, so we are grateful that he made an exception for us. It was obvious from our initial correspondence that he simply loves being with animals. The weather wasn't fantastic during his stay, lots of rain and even a three hour power outage, but he took all of this in stride. The dogs and house cats got lots of inside TLC during the rain, and long walks on the days it was nice. James, like all of our other sitters, took on the responsibility of morning chores, feeding cats, hens, and pigs. He also cleaned like crazy - water dishes, turtle tank, as well as the house. Communication was amazing, which made relaxing on the trip much easier. James asks a lot of questions, which just emphasizes his dedication to please.

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Thank you Kara, I wish my stay could have been longer. I enjoyed it very much.
2 of 3 reviews from this owner
This was James’s second sit with my boys and it was a pleasure to have him back. Just like the first sit, James provided detailed and frequent updates about my cats and I felt very sure that they were well taken care of. James is an incredibly thoughtful sitter who goes above and beyond not just when it comes to pet care, but also to cleaning. When I returned, my apartment was even cleaner than I’d left it—and I even had a new vacuum, as James was generous enough to give me an old one of his ... MoreThis was James’s second sit with my boys and it was a pleasure to have him back. Just like the first sit, James provided detailed and frequent updates about my cats and I felt very sure that they were well taken care of. James is an incredibly thoughtful sitter who goes above and beyond not just when it comes to pet care, but also to cleaning. When I returned, my apartment was even cleaner than I’d left it—and I even had a new vacuum, as James was generous enough to give me an old one of his upon discovering that mine was not working very well. I and my cats would be more than happy to have James back for a future sit.

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Thank you Leah for such kind words. I feel very much at home and comfortable caring for the adorable duo.
James was really great and my dog immediately bonded with him. She had just gotten stitches in her ear and was in a cone the day before the sit started, but James was patient and flexible enough to handle the unforeseen complication and he took great care of her. I'm grateful to James for that! As for the house, it was definitely cleaner when I came home than when I left and it was obvious that he really cared about taking good care of the place while I was gone. Thanks again, James!
Thank you Brett I'd be happy to watch your lovely pup Bentley anytime James
1 of 2 reviews from this owner
This is the third time my pup, Twix, has fallen in love with James. When I return home, before James leaves, Twix ignores me and sleeps in James' room! For me, that's the true demonstration of a great pet sitter - my pet's highest recommendation. As usual, the house was clean and my plants alive (rather an achievement since many die in my care) when I returned. Twix is better cared for when James is here - he walks Twix more and always considers his welfare - not a common trait of ... MoreThis is the third time my pup, Twix, has fallen in love with James. When I return home, before James leaves, Twix ignores me and sleeps in James' room! For me, that's the true demonstration of a great pet sitter - my pet's highest recommendation. As usual, the house was clean and my plants alive (rather an achievement since many die in my care) when I returned. Twix is better cared for when James is here - he walks Twix more and always considers his welfare - not a common trait of even good sitters on this site. James alerts you to anything out of the ordinary which is reassuring. If you want your pet to be taken care of by an empathic sitter - James is the best.

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Sitting for Debra and bonding with her dog Twix has been an immense joy. Twix is a wonderfully loving and intelligent dog, and anyone would be incredibly fortunate to spend time with him. Debra's home and location are like staying at a luxurious beach resort. The nearby dog beach is an added ... MoreSitting for Debra and bonding with her dog Twix has been an immense joy. Twix is a wonderfully loving and intelligent dog, and anyone would be incredibly fortunate to spend time with him. Debra's home and location are like staying at a luxurious beach resort. The nearby dog beach is an added bonus, providing Twix with endless fun and excitement. It's clear that Twix absolutely loves it there, and watching him enjoy himself so much was a highlight of my stay. Overall, this experience has been delightful and enriching. I highly recommend it to anyone considering it.

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We can't say enough good things about James. This was our first-time using House sitter America and were very nervous leaving our 3 dogs and 11 chickens. James, with his Spidey sense somehow knew how nervous we were and texted me before his arrival to assure me everything was going to be fine; and it was Thanks to James. He was attentive to our aging dogs' needs from the beginning. He made them special meals, gave them their medications, cleaned up after them, nurtured and loved them so ... MoreWe can't say enough good things about James. This was our first-time using House sitter America and were very nervous leaving our 3 dogs and 11 chickens. James, with his Spidey sense somehow knew how nervous we were and texted me before his arrival to assure me everything was going to be fine; and it was Thanks to James. He was attentive to our aging dogs' needs from the beginning. He made them special meals, gave them their medications, cleaned up after them, nurtured and loved them so they were very relaxed with us away. We call James the Chicken Whisperer. James had them trained to follow him back to the enclosure when he called. James had cleaned the house, bought us gifts, stocked the pantry and gathered all the mail. Without reservation we highly recommend James for any job.

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I truly value your kind sentiments. It was an absolute pleasure looking after your home and cherished pets. Your hospitality made me feel right at home.
3 of 3 reviews from this owner
James is truly the most caring sitter I have met and I’m so grateful for the wonderful care he gave to my cats. He was super communicative and provided steady photo updates and funny stories about the cats’ antics. He ensured they had all the attention they could possibly want, and it was clear he quickly established a trusting bond with them. James always thought about the cats’ needs first, and this selflessness—combined with his extensive knowledge and deep understanding of animals—makes him ... MoreJames is truly the most caring sitter I have met and I’m so grateful for the wonderful care he gave to my cats. He was super communicative and provided steady photo updates and funny stories about the cats’ antics. He ensured they had all the attention they could possibly want, and it was clear he quickly established a trusting bond with them. James always thought about the cats’ needs first, and this selflessness—combined with his extensive knowledge and deep understanding of animals—makes him the ideal person to care for your pets. I already am planning to have James return for a future sit, and I can’t express enough how good of a job he did. He also is possibly the cleanest person I’ve met and it was lovely to come home to a spotless apartment after being away. You’re the best, James!!

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Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and heartfelt review! It was an absolute pleasure caring for your beloved cats, and I'm delighted to hear that you felt they received wonderful attention and care. I truly enjoyed connecting with them and creating a bond based on trust and companionship. ... MoreThank you so much for your incredibly kind and heartfelt review! It was an absolute pleasure caring for your beloved cats, and I'm delighted to hear that you felt they received wonderful attention and care. I truly enjoyed connecting with them and creating a bond based on trust and companionship. It warms my heart to know you're already considering having me back for a future sit. I'd be more than happy to return and spend more time with your lovely cats. Also, I'm pleased to hear you appreciated returning to a spotless apartment—it's a small gesture, but maintaining a clean and welcoming space is important to me. Thank you once again for your trust and kind words. Your feedback means the world to me, James

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James was our first sitter, and I can only hope that others are anywhere near as good as he was. We are very much hoping to have him back the next time we travel, as his attention to both our dog and home's needs was exceptional. He has an easy-going and comfortable personality, is very thoughtful and aware of his surroundings, communicates well, and as a bonus, he enjoys cleaning! Our dog Chui was especially comfortable with James, and despite his quirks and preference for females, James ... MoreJames was our first sitter, and I can only hope that others are anywhere near as good as he was. We are very much hoping to have him back the next time we travel, as his attention to both our dog and home's needs was exceptional. He has an easy-going and comfortable personality, is very thoughtful and aware of his surroundings, communicates well, and as a bonus, he enjoys cleaning! Our dog Chui was especially comfortable with James, and despite his quirks and preference for females, James won him over, and they are now best of friends. The title "Dog Whisperer" has definitely crossed my mind. Thank you James, Chris and I both hope to see you again in the not so distant future, Steve

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I am truly grateful for the warmth and kindness that you, Chris, and Chui have extended to me. Your collective efforts have created an atmosphere that goes beyond mere friendship; it genuinely feels like being embraced by a loving and caring family. Your actions have left an indelible mark on my ... MoreI am truly grateful for the warmth and kindness that you, Chris, and Chui have extended to me. Your collective efforts have created an atmosphere that goes beyond mere friendship; it genuinely feels like being embraced by a loving and caring family. Your actions have left an indelible mark on my heart, and I can't thank you enough for the sense of belonging and connection you've provided. 🙏

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I was gone for an extended period of time and left my 110+ year old home and four cats (ranging in age from 2-16) in James' care. I could tell upon my return that the kitties were well cared for in my absence as they were calm, content, and in good physical condition. It was also very nice to come home to a clean house! James is a total animal person who takes pride in his role as caretaker and it shows. Thanks James.
I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for your trust in allowing me to care for your home and beloved pets. Your confidence means a lot to me, and I truly appreciate it.
James was fantastic and we highly recommend using him. He showed up early in order to become familiar with the house and pets. James loves animals and became quite attached to our cats, dog, and hermit crab. He is definitely an animal lover. He kept the house immaculate and went above and beyond what we expected. He kept in touch with us to solve any issues and resolved everything perfectly. James is very gregarious and witty. Our friends that met him were very impressed. We were ... MoreJames was fantastic and we highly recommend using him. He showed up early in order to become familiar with the house and pets. James loves animals and became quite attached to our cats, dog, and hermit crab. He is definitely an animal lover. He kept the house immaculate and went above and beyond what we expected. He kept in touch with us to solve any issues and resolved everything perfectly. James is very gregarious and witty. Our friends that met him were very impressed. We were very fortunate to find James. You will not regret choosing him. Do your getaway and let James handle the house and pets.

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Thank you so much for your kind words! It was an absolute pleasure taking care of your house and pets. I’m thrilled to hear that you were happy with my services. I also wanted to mention how overwhelmed I was by the kindness of Steve and Curt. They were so welcoming and accommodating throughout the ... MoreThank you so much for your kind words! It was an absolute pleasure taking care of your house and pets. I’m thrilled to hear that you were happy with my services. I also wanted to mention how overwhelmed I was by the kindness of Steve and Curt. They were so welcoming and accommodating throughout the entire process. I consider them true friends. I also wanted to mention how they have created a true oasis and sanctuary in their home. It’s truly a beautiful place to be. I appreciate your trust in me and I’m glad that I was able to exceed your expectations. Please don’t hesitate to contact me again if you need any help in the future. Thanks again James

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2 of 2 reviews from this owner
By far, the best house sitter I have ever seen. James has an empathy for animals that is unlike anyone else. Excellent communication before and during the sit. James kept the house cleaner than I do and watered all the plants. He loved Twix as much as I do and walked him several times a day. James will take care of your pets and home better than you do yourself! Highest recommendation.
Thank you for such kind words. I've never felt so comfortable and relaxed on a sit before
James was so incredibly thoughtful during his long stay with my dog. He left the home spotless and plants thriving. His care for Marley went above and beyond and it was obvious when I returned my dog hadn’t longed for attention. He communicated with me throughout the stay even helping with home contractors. We can’t wait for James to return.
I can't tell you how much spending time with Marley meant to me. Thank you
If you are looking for the very best in care for your beloved pets, home and plants, look no further. James was the best and most loving person with our dogs and chickens that I've ever experienced. He was an awesome communicator throughout our travels overseas. We always get apprehensive about someone we don't know, caretaking especially our beloved fur baby dogs, but we met via Zoom a few times leading up to our trip and James quickly put our fears to rest. Our vacation was better, knowing ... MoreIf you are looking for the very best in care for your beloved pets, home and plants, look no further. James was the best and most loving person with our dogs and chickens that I've ever experienced. He was an awesome communicator throughout our travels overseas. We always get apprehensive about someone we don't know, caretaking especially our beloved fur baby dogs, but we met via Zoom a few times leading up to our trip and James quickly put our fears to rest. Our vacation was better, knowing that he was so attentive to all of the details and unique nuances of our little homestead. His attention to details in reporting any concerns was incredible. We also made a wonderful friendship with James along the way. He has such a warm and loving spirit and we were honored to have him stay here.

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