From Medicine to Portrait Painting: Julia’s Pet Sitting Adventures
Our lovely member, Julia, moved away from the stressful world of psychology and medicine and into new lands of painting, travel, and pet sitting. Now a fully-fledged artist, she explores the world and the pets in it—leaving trails of adorable animal portraits in her path. We arranged a catch-up to hear more about Julia’s thoughtful approach to house sitting, and she was kind enough to share her story with us.
“I studied medicine and psychology and never planned on becoming an artist,” Julia shares. “But during my university studies, I fell ill—and painting and drawing became an important part of my rehabilitation. I realized I needed less stress and wanted more freedom to travel and do the things that make me feel good: creating art and being with animals.”
Pet sitting and painting became Julia’s sanctuary—not only hobbies that would take her around the globe, but cornerstones of her healing journey. And in producing these thoughtful keepsakes for pet parents, Julia leaves behind mementos of the fun she’s had with new furry friends—and the deep passion she shares for them.
“I’ve met so many kind and generous pet owners, and I feel like leaving a painting as a thank-you gift is the least I can do. I always enjoy trying to capture the personality of a pet—even though it sometimes involves having a cat walk across your palette and leave paw prints in your sketchbook! I’ve found kittens are especially interested in art, always keen to be part of the painting process and ‘assisting’ with brushes and pencils.”
Living Like a Local—One Sit at a Time
When Julia isn’t creating art alongside fluffy kittens (and dodging their paint-covered paws), she’s living like a local in some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations—an artist needs her inspiration, after all.
“This summer I discovered Edinburgh, a city I’ve wanted to go to for ages. I stayed in three different places during a six-week stay, which meant I could discover different areas of the city. Six weeks is a long time to be on your own in a new city—but with cats and dogs for company, I didn’t feel lonely at all. And while dog walking, I met so many people I don’t think I would have talked to unless I had a dog with me. Cute dogs really are great conversation starters!”
The Joy of Shared Spaces and Quiet Moments
So what’s the pet sitting life like? How does it feel to be accompanied not only by new city views—but also by the pitter-patter of paws in the morning and fluffy sofa snuggles at night?
“I travel on my own, and I would not enjoy it half as much if I didn’t have pets for company during my trips. I also very much enjoy staying in someone’s home rather than in a hotel room—it makes it possible to really get the feel for how it is to live somewhere. You feel like a local, not a tourist!”
Pet sitting has allowed Julia to dictate where she spends her time while working remotely—immersing herself in new cultures and, of course, different climates.
“I always try to escape the dark Swedish winter and go somewhere warmer during the coldest months.”
What Makes a Great Pet Sitter?
If you’re wondering how Julia has secured so many incredible (and clearly inspirational) sits over the last four years, here’s her advice on what makes a great sitter:
- A genuine love for animals is essential—as well as making the pet’s health and wellbeing your top priority.
- Good and honest communication is vital—for example, being able to admit when you’ve made a mistake or feel uncertain about something.
- No one likes to admit a mistake—but if you’re responsible for someone’s pet and home, honesty is always key.
Well, it’s safe to say that Julia’s story paints a colourful picture of where house sitting can take us: chic cities, adorable animals—and of course, their portraits.
Want to see more of Julia’s art and get started with pet sitting yourself? Follow Julia @illustra on Instagram to marvel at more of her stunning pet and travel artwork. And if Julia’s adventures across Europe—and beyond—with precious pets for company have inspired you, find your next house sit through furpetvo.com to begin your own adventure.
