Hi Diverdeb77,
Boy, can I relate to YOUR situation!!! I am contemplating a similar move to FL or HI or maybe even Thailand. However, I will not leave my cat behind unless it is with a trusted pet sitter, like perhaps my niece, and even that would only be for a limited time. I would miss my Tigger too much and I think he would miss me too.
Anyway, I hope you find your rental and happy diving!
David