Dog Sitting in Blacksburg

About: I have lived with dogs my entire life and have been tasked with taking care of others dogs as well. I would love to take your dogs on walks, play fetch in the backyard, or just lounge around all day. I have yet to meet a dog I didn’t like and am not afraid to deal with any messes if needed. I will be here over the summer and have no other obligations so if your animal needs someone there full time I would be happy to hang out with them! I care for pets by providing a comfortable and loving environment for your pet while you’re gone. I am more than willing to do whatever it takes to make your pet feel like it’s just another day at home! I understand some pets may not react well to strangers initially, but I am extremely patient and will work with your pet to reach a trusting relationship.

“Sam was very sweet and reliable and took excellent care of my cats! She sent pictures with each visit and did everything I asked while I was gone, making my trip so much easier. Highly recommended.”

Stacy B.

“James was a great sitter for our dog, Teddy. He followed all of our care instructions, kept us updated with photos, and made sure Teddy had everything he needed while we were away. When we got home, Teddy was calm, relaxed, and settled right back into his routine. We’d be happy to book with James again.”

William I.

About: I’ve taken care of lots of dogs for friends and family over the years. I mostly do drop ins to check on the pets but I also love taking them for walks too! I am currently working part-time so I have the flexibility to drop in and hang out with your pets or take them on walks during the day! As a college student, I understand how important it is to have someone dependable caring for your pets while you're away. During drop-in visits, I'll make sure your pet has fresh food and water, gets bathroom breaks, playtime, exercise, and lots of attention. I do my best to stick to their normal routine so they stay comfortable and happy.

“Taji was very professional, punctual and most importantly really good with Kizmit. He followed pet care instructions to the letter and actually sat and played/loved on her. I would definitely request him again.”

Roni R.

“Claire did such an amazing job taking care of Blue. She was great to work with, followed my requests to a T, and sent frequent updates! I would totally recommend her to anyone needing a pet sitter.”

Syd M.

“Erin is amazing! My Labradoodle is very sweet but has anxiety issues and it very weary around new people. Erin was so patient with him and allowed him to warm up to her. She took him for many walks and played with him. She sent lots of pictures and videos. She is super sweet and I felt so good having her care for our boy!”

Megan P.

About: Hello! My name is Karissa and I am a big animal lover. I've had dogs and cats my whole life, and have always enjoyed spending time with and caring for them. I have trained and competed in agility with my Australian shepherds, and I have worked with and trained dogs of all ages. I have also cared for and loved many cats (both my own and for clients and friends). I am on the Virginia Tech polo team, and we are in charge of all aspects of care for our 13 horses during the school year. I have ridden and cared for over 100 horses since I was young. Through these experiences, I have administered medications, handled behavioral issues, fed a variety of foods, and cared for and diagnosed illnesses and injuries. My goal is to make sure your pets feel safe, cared for, and loved while their favorite people are away. Your pet should feel like they are on vacation too! I am on break from school right now, and hybrid interning part time here in Blacksburg. I am very available and excited to spend time with your pets! Because I offer care in your home, I strive to ensure that you and your pets feel safe, respected, and cared for. I emphasize safety, privacy, cleanliness, and happy animals. Especially with the temporary change in caregiver, I believe it is extremely important to maintain the routine your pets are used to while you are away, with maybe a couple extra treats (with permission, of course) :) Above all, I adhere to the care rules and instructions given to me, because you know your pets better than anyone.

About: I grew up surrounded by dogs, quite literally as our high energy Australian Shepherds would herd me around our yard. My family always had at least two energetic dogs, and a very lazy cat, so I have experience with dogs that need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. I helped out from training them as puppies all the way to senior care, most recently helping to care for my senior dog who had diabetes. Since moving states, I have missed my family’s furry members and would love to help care for your babies while you are away! I do work full time but would love to make time to get in some furry friend time. Mornings, the noon hour, and evenings will work best on weekdays, while almost anytime on weekends is fine. I don’t travel too often but will have certain times blocked off on my calendar. I unfortunately do not have the space to offer pet care in my home at this time, but am open to caring for your pet in their space. I like to have open communication about how to best make both you and your pet comfortable to ensure everyone has the best experience possible.

About: I am a graduate student located in Blacksburg studying Counselor Education. This past summer I even got to take the Animal Assisted Counseling course and learn all about animal wellbeing in my profession! I have always had dogs and cat in my house growing up, and I have years of informal experience walking, feeding, and taking care of pets overnight. I am always a go to pet sitter for family and friends that are out of town because I always follow their directions as well as treat their home and pet with respect. I also have over a year of hands on volunteer experience at the People For Pets Foundation no kill cat cat shelter in Jeffersonton, VA. I am super flexible all summer! I am a server and work six hours shifts at the maximum. I am happy to serve you and your pets with temporary support or long-term weekly services! I can provide overnight support as well. A pet is like another member of the family, and I have always been taught to treat your family with respect and love them unconditionally. Being with animals is my absolute favorite thing in the world, and you can trust that your pet’s well being will always be my number one priority.

“Rachel is a wonderful cat sitter! My cats were very happy and well taken care of, and even Bella, who is very shy around new people, warmed up to her. Rachel was also very easy to talk to and sent daily updates.”

Lavinia

About: I am an Animal and Dairy Science student at Virginia Tech, part of the Honors College, and on the pre-veterinary track. I am also currently completing a master’s program in Animal Behavior and Welfare, which gives me a strong scientific foundation in animal behavior, stress, enrichment, and humane handling. Throughout college I have also worked as an RA for the Honors College and as an ambassador for the School of Animal Science, which has given me strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, I have hands-on experience working in multiple, varied veterinary clinics, allowing me to care for animals of different temperaments, ages, and medical needs with confidence and professionalism. I have years of experience caring for a wide range of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, ducks, and other livestock and companion animals. Throughout college, I volunteered consistently at an animal shelter, where I worked with shy, fearful, high-energy, and senior animals, gaining experience in safe handling, enrichment, and basic training reinforcement. I am especially comfortable with puppies, senior pets, and animals that need patience, routine, or extra reassurance. What sets me apart is my combination of academic training, real-world veterinary and shelter experience, and genuine love for animals. I approach pet care thoughtfully, paying close attention to behavior, body language, and individual needs. I am also actively working toward animal training certifications, allowing me to reinforce good manners, routines, and positive behaviors during care. I treat every animal as an individual and prioritize their safety, comfort, and well-being at all times. I am currently in a few morning courses to finish my undergraduate degree and taking animal behavior and welfare classes online towards my master’s degree. This gives my flexibility during almost every part of the day, every day. When caring for pets in a client’s home, I prioritize safety, trust, and consistency above all else. I closely follow each pet’s routine, feeding instructions, and any medical or behavioral needs, while paying careful attention to body language and stress signals. My background in animal science and behavior allows me to handle pets calmly and confidently, maintain a clean and secure environment, and ensure pets feel comfortable and well cared for in their familiar space.

“Avery did a wonderful job watching my cat! She sent pictures and message updates each visit and my kitty seemed very content when I arrived home. I will definitely be booking again for future trips :)”

Anna D.

About: I love offering time and companionship to animals, whether it’s my own dogs or my friend’s hedgehog. I have experience caring for dogs of all sizes, from Frenchies to Great Danes, and I can offer plenty of activity (or couch-potato time) to make your pup happy. I am working part-time this summer, and the flexibility I have with my schedule allows me to tailor to your availability for the pet care you need. I plan to maintain the safety and comfort of your pet through quality time, following daily routines, and consistent communication with pet parents. I can handle any special instructions that may be needed, and I can send regular updates for peace of mind.

About: I have 3 dogs at home, both large and small. I love any type of dog or cat. I love animals they are the best thing. I would love to see or walk your pets during the day to brighten my day. I would love to spend more time with them if they need an overnight sitter for some company. I wake up early to start my day and I love to be active an take my dogs on a walk. I make sure they get 3 meals a day with an occasional treat or two.

About: Hi I'm Gabriella and I am back home for few months after graduating from PA school! I have worked with pets for most of my life and even have a cockapoo myself! I have worked as a pet-sitter since I was in high school for families with cats and dogs of all sizes. My skills include cleaning, bathing, feeding, walking/running, loving, and simple pet chores. I can handle dogs of all sizes but mainly prefer medium to smaller dogs. I am very active and would love to bring your pet along on a walk / run with me! I am available most days and am happy to take new clients:) I am not currently working so I have all the time to give your animal needs! I am happy to bring him/her along with me on walks or runs outside or to just hang out at home. I make sure that I am respectful of other peoples places and clean up after myself. I abide to all boundaries that owners may have whether that may be restricting locations that their pets can be or wiping the dogs feet before coming inside.

About: My family has always had a bunch of different pets and animals. We have had Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Pitbulls and Labs and I am happy to take care of any of your animals. I am more than willing to take your furry friends out for walks, give food, baths, or medicine and clean up any mess they make! I am currently working part-time, not all day and not everyday, so I have plenty of time to take care of your pets however you prefer. When caring for pets in my client's home, I ensure they receive personalized attention, including feeding, walking, playtime, and any necessary medications. I follow their routines closely, maintain a clean environment, and provide regular updates to the owners for peace of mind.

About: I have owned dogs all my life and have worked with an independent dog sitting company over the summers. I am a Virginia tech honor student looking to take care of love and play with your furry friends! I take online classes so I have a very open availability when it comes to pet care. I have a car so I have an easy way of traveling. I am a trained dog walker with all sizes and breeds. I work at the animal shelter as a volunteer and I have worked to care for pets my entire life. Your pets safety is my top priority.

About: I have taken care of others' pets since 2010. Additionally, I have been working in animal care since 2015 and have experience with cats, dogs, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and rodents. I am looking to make more local connections with pets and expand my skills while attending veterinary school. I currently am a full-time veterinary student. I hope to be able to help pet parents out especially on weekends and holidays. I would also love to help out during lunch breaks and evenings away from the classroom. I treat each pet as if it were my own-with care, respect, and love. I respect the wishes of each client and care for the pet exactly as they ask. I like to keep a journal of the pet's behavior and activities to share with the owner so it feels like you didn't miss a thing!

About: I am an Animal Sciences major and have trained 3+ service dog puppies (8wks-22mos) with an accredited organization, owned dogs my whole life, babysat neighbor's cats since I was 9, and worked with a large variety of animals of all sizes in general. Those that I have previously pet-sit for have asked me back countless times as they trust me to be responsible and loving to their pets. I have 3-4 classes every day with some availability between them, as well as ample availability almost every morning and evening, with very open availability on weekends! I treat all pets with respect and love. I require meeting before I take care of your pet so that I can get a full run through of exactly what you need me to do and can give your pet the best care. I will prioritize comfort with your pet by following their routine to the best of my ability. I am adept at identifying signs of stress or discomfort in any situation, and I never push boundaries or put the animal in situations that would make the animal uncomfortable. I always keep pet's spaces clean and have experience cleaning up a variety of messes when necessary.