Dog Sitting Columbia

Book a Columbia dog sitter to watch your dog in your sitter’s home or yours.

End
Search

Over 543
pet parents in Columbia have booked dog sitting

Columbia, Find top rated dog sitting

Prices are estimates per visit. Pricing may vary based on your search. A booking fee of 11% and taxes will apply.

1 / 1
Sitter Profile Image: Samuel M.
Verified Background Check
Samuel M.
from
$20
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 75 reviews
32 repeat clients
5 years of experience
Halethorpe, MD, 21227

“Sam is the only person that we trust to watch our dogs and he does such an excellent job each time. We've been using Sam for years and plan to continue to use him in the future.”

Profile image
Pammie D.
Sitter Profile Image: Caroline M.
Verified Background Check
Caroline M.
from
$25
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 16 reviews
6 repeat clients
15 years of experience
Elkridge, MD, 21075

“Caroline came in at the last minute and saved the day for a week-long trip for us. When we met, it was clear she had a ton of experience and she was so patient with our high-energy pitties, who absolutely loved seeing her every day! You cannot miss if you book Caroline, she's passionate, communicative, flexible, and the dogs love her.”

Profile image
K W.
Sitter Profile Image: Shelby S.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Shelby S.
from
$25
per visit
15 years of experience
Ellicott City, MD, 21043

About: I’ve taken care of dogs and cats since I was 10 years old. Grew up on a farm so I am not afraid of big or small animals. My neighbors has used me to feed, walk, and bathe their dogs over the years. I’m currently working full time. But I have time to walk, feed, and play with your animals on the weekends! Also if you need to need a walking service during the week it will be after 6. The pet can be in a kennel kept while I’m not at home. But for walking and playing there are great parks and fields to go to!

Sitter Profile Image: Fiona M.
Verified Background Check
Fiona M.
from
$25
per visit
4.9 out of 5 stars
• 25 reviews
9 repeat clients
14 years of experience
Columbia, MD, 21044

“Fiona is wonderful— sweet, communicative, reliable, everything was perfect. I recommend her with 100% confidence and I will definitely be booking when we go out of town again!”

Profile image
Benjamin S.
Sitter Profile Image: Joey L.
Verified Background Check
Joey L.
from
$24
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 47 reviews
9 repeat clients
25 years of experience
Columbia, MD, 21045

“Joey L did a great job. I would recommend him.”

Profile image
Martha H.
Sitter Profile Image: Sai G.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Sai G.
from
$16
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 2 reviews
1 repeat client
3 years of experience
Ellicott City, MD, 21042

About: I grew up with a highly energetic German Shepherd as a teen and have lived with and cared for multiple cats as an adult. Aside from that, I’ve done pet and house sitting for friends, neighbors, and acquaintances for several years. More than anything, I find animals fascinating, and I bring curiosity and a genuine interest in each pet’s unique personality.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ I’m currently taking a sabbatical from work so my schedule is very flexible. I can do house sitting any day of the week but walks and drop-ins are by arrangement only. When house sitting, I make it a priority to maintain your pet’s existing routine as closely as possible; same feeding times, same walks, same sleeping arrangements. Familiar schedules go a long way toward keeping pets calm and relaxed while their owners are away. I’ll follow your instructions carefully and ask clarifying questions upfront so there are no surprises. I’m also attentive to changes in behavior or health, and will reach out promptly if anything seems off

Sitter Profile Image: Sara C.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Sara C.
from
$20
per visit
3 years of experience
Columbia, MD, 21045

About: I’ve always loved animals and I really enjoy spending time with them. I know every pet has a different personality, so I always try to respect their routine and what makes them comfortable. I’m happy to take dogs on walks, play with them, give them attention, or just keep them company if they’re more relaxed. I don’t like rushing walks, I like giving them time to sniff, explore, and enjoy being outside. I’m also a Nursing Assistant with First Aid experience, so I’m responsible, attentive, and used to following instructions carefully. I genuinely enjoy walking and spending time outside, so caring for pets fits naturally into my routine. I have the energy and patience for longer walks, but I’m also happy to slow down for older dogs or pets that prefer a calmer pace. I always adjust to the individual pet instead of expecting them to adjust to me. I always follow the owner’s instructions and try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible. I pay attention to their behavior, energy level, and comfort, especially when they are in a new situation or with someone new. I’m careful with doors, leashes, food, and anything that could affect their safety. I also respect your home and will always keep you updated while I’m caring for your pet.

Sitter Profile Image: Melinda A.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Melinda A.
from
$35
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 49 reviews
14 repeat clients
40 years of experience
Elkridge, MD, 21075

“Melinda stopped by for 2 consecutive nights to take care of our dog and she did a great job! It’s good to know Oakley is in trusting hands while we’re away. Would highly recommend! Thanks again, Melinda!”

Profile image
Olivia B.
Sitter Profile Image: Malik G.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Malik G.
from
$14
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 17 reviews
4 repeat clients
3 years of experience
Laurel, MD, 20723

About: I’m not scared of any size pet big or small i am able to follow strictly and carefully any small note you want me to offer to your pet and take care of them with love and send photos every minute of your baby ! GardnerPets on Facebook And Instagram Pet Service Business ✅❤️ Fully Available for Week and Weekends and Holidays if needed just let me know and I got you In my home i offer full range of comfortability to all pets to explore but with supervision over them and access to a big yard with also other friendly animals in the area

Sitter Profile Image: Silas D.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Silas D.
from
$25
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 19 reviews
6 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Columbia, MD, 21044

“Ivy came through for me at the last minute with watching my Grayson - Ivy took great care of him and keep me informed , I felt very comfortable with Ivy, customer service was great . I will be booking Ivy again !”

Profile image
Santana A.
Sitter Profile Image: Destinee M.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Destinee M.
Star Sitter
from
$35
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 46 reviews
12 repeat clients
16 years of experience
Columbia, MD, 21045

About: Hi, my name is Destinée and I’m looking forward to meeting you and your special furry friend(s)! A little bit about me: I have 16 years total experience of caring for both dogs and cats, which started with our family shih tzu named Phoenix, who unfortunately crossed the rainbow bridge in 2018 🌈. However, our silly senior cat Onyx, keeps our hearts (and our feet) warm. My experience entails the basics, such as: adhering to walking and feeding schedules, playtime, and baths/brushing. Feel free to contact me about your pet’s specific needs, I am more than willing to provide possible accommodations. Hope to hear from you soon! Currently, my availability is open! I care for my own cat daily, however, I’m also available to care for your pet with same day notice. I provide my cat Onyx with ample playtime and stimulation, both of which your pet will also enjoy. You can rest assured that I provide a safe environment to gain your pet’s trust and confidence. I will work passionately with you and your family to deliver a caring and respectful experience.

Sitter Profile Image: Erika J.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Erika J.
from
$25
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 205 reviews
67 repeat clients
10 years of experience
Columbia, MD, 21045

“We had a great experience with Erika! She was very friendly with us, and our (sometimes reserved) dog felt comfortable with her immediately. Erika has a clear love for animals that shines through in her care for and interactions with them, and we appreciated knowing Mina was in such great hands!”

Profile image
Rebecca F.
Sitter Profile Image: Gabriella L.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Gabriella L.
Star Sitter
from
$25
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 10 reviews
4 repeat clients
8 years of experience
Elkridge, MD, 21076

“Gabriella did a great job. Was on time and very attentive to Hanna and gave her lots of playtime and snuggles. So happy with her service and care of our dog. Thanks so much”

Profile image
Anna P.
Sitter Profile Image: Vergil C.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Vergil C.
from
$23
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 47 reviews
7 repeat clients
10 years of experience
Columbia, MD, 21046

About: I've cared for several kinds pets for my friends and family since I was 15. I have learned how to train dogs specifically in simple commands such as sit, down, stay, and leave it. I currently own a pup and have helped him learn a multitude of commands and I have a deeper understanding on how to keep your pet safe. I understand how to care for your pet and how to meet their needs in regards to feeding, walking, exercising, and safety. I am currently part-time in school making my schedule flexible to take care of your fur babies. I am available Monday through Friday and occasionally on Sunday, please contact me for availability. I will adapt to your pets environment as needed making sure to keep dangers away from your pup. This of course will vary from location to location so communicate with me what individual needs your pet has to ensure their safety.

Sitter Profile Image: Theresa M.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Theresa M.
from
$20
per visit
40 years of experience
Ellicott City, MD, 21043

About: I’ve had dogs since I was a child. My Nextdoor neighbors and close friends both have 2 dogs whom I sit while they are away. They have been away as long as 7-11 days. I’m a mom of adult I am currently unemployed and very flexible with my availability. I am able to fit your schedule and the needs of your furry loved one. I am able to meet the clients needs with whatever they wish for their pets. I can have them at my home or I can stay at their home with the pets.

Sitter Profile Image: Alyssa F.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Alyssa F.
from
$25
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 2 reviews
1 repeat client
30 years of experience
Columbia, MD, 21044

About: PLEASE CHECK SERVICE DESCRIPTIONS under “availability” in the services tab. Thank you. :) *As an intermittent farm hand, I do chickens and light livestock care, too! As a former pet store worker, I do birds, rodents, reptiles/amphibians and fish, too!* PHOTO UPDATES GUARANTEED I grew up with Aussies, Labs, German Shepherds and mutts (<3) who we cared for from puppy to senior and stewarded through end of life. I have also done professional dog walking, pet sitting, and doggy day care for a combined 5 years over time, and I have intermittently dog walked with Durham APS. I’m a wizard with pet food safety as I own a pet treat business. I currently love, spoil, and care for a 12yo, 40lb Southern hunting dog mix named Gracie. She came to us at 4yo from the SPCA with a sensitive stomach and submissive, fearful behaviors around other dogs. I’m happy to report she lives the actual best life! Medication administration: I offer oral and topical medication administration, and I will offer intramuscular injections after a hands-on training from the owner. Senior/medically fragile care: I work with senior and medically fragile dogs to support exercise as tolerated, monitoring of food intake, supporting hydration (including hand feeding watered down foods), and giving some doggie massages on those tight joints. :) I am experienced caring for dogs on heart worm treatment (though I will ask about the treatment course as this impacts activity needs). I will always seek out a vet appointment in a medical emergency, after first attempting to contact the owner. Behavioral needs: I am particularly great with nervous dogs and those dealing with past trauma! I take it slow and let animals initiate more direct interactions as they become comfortable. I’ve been known to crawl on my stomach as needed, haha… While I am very conservative when bringing a new dog around other people and animals, please LET ME KNOW of any behavioral concerns such as dog/people reactivity, resource and food bowl guarding, abandonment anxiety, etc. Please note that I ONLY use positive reinforcement training techniques, which involves ignoring or redirecting undesirable behaviors rather than asserting punishment, and implementing liberal rewards for desirable behaviors. I will OF COURSE directly intervene if there is a safety concern! Grooming: I will brush long haired dogs as needed to avoid matting. If you book an overnight for at least a week, I will offer a bath as requested. :) For dogs who are already trained to accept tooth brushing, I will do this as regular care for overnights. Exercise: I am an avid hiker, and for house/pet sitting clients I will happily schedule trips out to a trail. For dog walking clients that live within 5 minutes (walking/driving) of a trail, I am happy to hike with your pup as well. I have plenty of energy, so please let me know if you prefer a vigorous walk. Unfortunately, I do not run unless chased! Intact pups: I am totally okay with a dog that is still intact for breeding purposes and only ask that you communicate this along with any specific behaviors to watch for. This will also let me know to watch extra carefully for potential escape attempts. I am comfortable using diapers for dogs in heat. Rover is not super clear on what services include! To help clarify my rates, this base schedule is a guide to start our conversation, so please feel free to share your specific needs with me: My HOUSE SITTING rate generally (but flexibly) encompasses a minimum visit of 6pm-8am in your home which includes at minimum meals & meds, potty breaks, cuddle & play time, and around a 30 minute walk, based on your pet’s energy. I also come by midday to do a 45-60 minute visit where I provide a second 15-30 minute walk. For longer visits (5+ days), I’m happy to provide one additional long walk (30-60 min, like a hike) per week included in my rate. If you need to arrange a different type of schedule for your pet, please let me know. I understand every pet is different. If you have a pup with higher exercise needs, for instance, please let me know and we can adjust the base rate according to the extra walks they’ll need. This helps me balance time away from my own home (and pup) while also giving your pets the right level of care for their mental and physical health. Please let me know if you require 24/7 care! This means I am with your pet most of the day leaving no more than once for less than two hours. I offer this starting at $150/day and is a good option for medically fragile animals. Only need an OVERNIGHT? I’m happy to provide 12hrs of pet care for $70/night. Just let me know. (Only suitable for one quick night away!) *yes, I will water plants, collect mail and other light house upkeep items* WALKS include about 5-10 minutes of pet care (fresh water, feeding and/or meds, cleaning up oopsies) and the rest of the visit is devoted to walking outside. The goal is to get exercise! DROP-INS are for small animals, cats and dogs who don’t need a walk. It is time for social interactions like cuddle & play, cleaning bowls or oopsies, taking potty breaks, and feeding or administering meds. I can also help care for chickens and some other livestock, including rotating pasture. We can figure out a schedule and pricing based on your needs! I am happy to adhere to all care standards you have within your home, including a crating or specific feeding routines. I am extremely sensitive to the cleanliness and care of other peoples’ homes. Especially if I am cooking meals and using linens, I often leave homes cleaner than I found them. That’s just polite.

Sitter Profile Image: Rebecca M.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Rebecca M.
from
$20
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 14 reviews
1 repeat client
30 years of experience
Catonsville, MD, 21228

“Rebecca was great. She went above and beyond and came out to see our dog during a massive snow storm. Would highly recommend.”

Profile image
Paul And Louise M.
Sitter Profile Image: Andrew B.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Andrew B.
from
$25
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 7 reviews
1 repeat client
20 years of experience
Ellicott city, MD, 21043

About: I’ve taken care of dogs (my own, friends, neighbors) as long as I can remember. I’m the kind of person they gravitate to and I know how to communicate with them. Dogs are my favorite part of life, including my “son” Ernie the Frenchie! I am an engineer in healthcare, so I typically am in the office during the weekdays until around 3. Very early mornings, 4p-?, and anytime on weekends I am fully available. My puppy (well, he’s 6 but he’s always a pup to me) is a model of health. Grade 0 teeth, strength and endurance from a muscular body attributed to his healthy and fresh diet. I make time for us to play outdoors every day as well as go for at least one walk a day - though he’s a frenchie he will actually walk on average 3 miles at a time with no issues!

Sitter Profile Image: Rilo H.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Rilo H.
from
$25
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 3 reviews
20 years of experience
Ellicott City, MD, 21043

About: Hi there, my name is Rilo! I’ve always been told that I’m “the most animal loving person” folks have ever met. I’ve been caring for animals since I became a reptile and bird keeper at age 8! My philosophy with animals is this: they are all autonomous creatures who deserve to be treated as such! Not only do they deserve love and attention, but also respect for their boundaries and needs. I have experience training puppies, as well as caring for sick cats and administering medication. I am alert and a safety first mind when walking dogs, and truly believe that high quality of life for pets can be found in mental and physical stimulation, which is why walks and creative play are cornerstones in my approach! You can count on detailed updates and photos of your pets when they are in my care, as reliable communication is key! I currently work part time remotely, so I have 20-30 available hours a week (weekends included!) for pet care! I am available for long term gigs, as my PT job is quite flexible! Safety is the most important thing to me. Luckily, working on horse farms will teach you a lot about animal safety. Leashes out to be held with two hands, doors must be closed at all times, and never cross the street without looking twice! (My other line of work is child care, can you tell I care a lot about safety lol!)

Sitter Profile Image: Sara H.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Sara H.
from
$17
per visit
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 3 reviews
2 repeat clients
15 years of experience
Columbia, MD, 21044

“Sara was great! Our apartment was left in the same condition as when we left. She arrived promptly and sent cute pictures of our boy! She was very patient with our wild puppy and played with him (in a structured way that promotes mental stimulation) as well as a nice potty break while we’re at work. Would definitely feel comfortable requesting her services again.”

Profile image
Madisyn H.
1 / 1
View more

The median cost per visit for dog sitting in Columbia is $20

Dog parents share their Rover experiences - Columbia

1 / 1
5.0 out of 5 stars

Ana was amazing in caring for my pug while I was out of town for a few days. I tend to get easily anxious when I leave my dog, but Ana was SO communicative both in her scheduled updates and whenever I needed to ask her something in between. She actually gave my dog true attention including play and interaction, well beyond simply showing up to feed and walk. Thank you so much, Ana!

Profile image
Katie D.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Katherine did a great job with my dog Ollie this week! Definitely plan to continue to book drop in visits for long work days.

Profile image
Toni S.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Jaeda was perfect for our girls! They got lots of love and I could relax knowing they were in good hands!!

Profile image
Sara P.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Kayla did great watching out dog! She was very communicative, responsive, and responsible! I highly recommend her!

Profile image
Mike H.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Sara is awesome and Bailey is so happy to see her. So glad I can go out and feel confident that he will be well cared for.

Profile image
Michele A.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Krysta was great with our dog and cat, Jade and Beauty. They are not the easiest pair, so it gives us peace of mind to find someone who can skillfully care for them.

Profile image
Kim M.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Denssy was great! Second time with her and she made it very easy and comforting knowing she was looking in on Polly. Would absolutely recommend! Thanks Denssy!

Profile image
Grace C.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Abby and Chris were great. They were punctual and gave us great photos and videos of our dog while we were away. Kiyoko loved her time with them.

Profile image
Bennett R.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Mikaela is terrific! They were responsive, prompt, flexible, and took wonderful care of my dog. It's obvious they care *so* much about the wellbeing of the animals they meet.

Profile image
Brendan S.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Christina was fantastic! Very responsive, reliable, timely, and took great care of my dog. She kept me informed the entire trip and even took the time to meet my dog beforehand. Highly recommend.

Profile image
Victoria W.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Madison is the best of the best. Our dog was sick while we were away and she went above and beyond with care for him (and care for our home). Her communication is excellent. Wish there was a higher review than 5 stars!!

Profile image
Annie H.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Charles was wonderful with Bear and Luna! This was actually my first time leaving my pups home alone for the entire day, so I was a little worried about them. Charles made the whole experience so much easier and gave me great peace of mind. He stopped by twice—once in the morning and again in the evening—to feed them, give them potty breaks, and make sure they had plenty of fresh water. He also sent me pictures during his visits, which I absolutely loved. Being able to see Bear and Luna happy and doing well really helped put my mind at ease. Charles is also very responsive and easy to communicate with, which I especially appreciated since I was a bit of a nervous dog mom this time around! Bear and Luna are both fairly big dogs, and I felt completely comfortable having Charles care for them. He was dependable, attentive, and made sure they had everything they needed. I’m so happy with the care he provided and will absolutely book Charles again. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for someone reliable and caring to look after their pups!

Profile image
Neetu J.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Absolutely wonderful dog walker! Reliable, trustworthy, and genuinely caring. My dog was in good hands. Communication was great, she was always dependable, and I felt completely comfortable knowing my dog is in good hands. I Highly recommend Alexandra

Profile image
Chantal A.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Martha is a great communicator and sent wonderful pictures and videos of our dog. This was our first time using Rover and the first time we left our dog since we adopted her. We were really lucky we found Martha and will definitely use her again.

Profile image
Scott S.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Molly communicates great! I’m so pleased that Storm had her while we were away. Molly kept me updated the entire time plus Storm enjoyed her! 10000% will rebook in the future!

Profile image
Carmyn M.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Alexandra was great! We met for a meet and greet and she was so courteous and easy to talk to. My pets really liked her and I felt they would be safe in her care. She asked great questions and seemed very experienced.

Profile image
Jen B.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Alexis took amazing care of Mikey. We are new to the area and this was a new experience for us. She made both Mikey and I feel comfortable. Her flexibility and communication were excellent and I loved all the pictures and updates! We will be using Alexis for sure again!!

Profile image
Leslie W.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Emma was very accommodating after our initial sitter was unable to care for our dogs. She was prompt and sent pictures at each visit. We would definitely hire her again.

Profile image
ken v.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Nancy was wonderful dropping in to visit our dog in the middle of the day over a period of one week. Very professional with good communication and feedback. And our dog was very happy to see her. We liked the fact that she owns a large dog, so was very comfortable with our large dog. Highly recommend. Will definitely contact her in the future as needed.

Profile image
David W.
Drop-In Visits
5.0 out of 5 stars

Stephani was great with my anxious shy dogs! My dog wound up needing medication in the middle of the week and Stephani had no problems pivoting to include that care in her visits. She gave lots of picture updates too! ◡̈

Profile image
Sarah K.
Drop-In Visits
1 / 1
Find pet care near you

Book with peace of mind

  • Screened pet sitters have passed a third-party background check and show verified reviews from other pet parents, like you.
  • Every booking is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes up to $25,000 reimbursement for eligible vet care. Learn more
  • 24/7 support from the Rover team–here to help if you ever need someone to talk to.

Why Choose Rover?

  • Cashless payments

    Book and pay through Rover’s secured platform—no cash or checks required.

  • Reservation protection

    It doesn’t happen often, but if your sitter has to cancel, we’ll work with you to find a new sitter.

  • World-class support

    We’re friendly, knowledgable, and total pet fanatics. You can get in touch with us anytime.

How to book dog sitting

  1. 1. Search

    Browse profiles of sitters near you who offer dog sitting.
  2. 2. Meet In Person

    Schedule a free in-person Meet & Greet to find the perfect fit.
  3. 3. Book & Pay

    It's that easy! All payments are processed through Rover's secured platform.

Popular requests for dog sitting - Columbia

Select a filter and find qualifying sitters offering dog sitting.

Sitters in Columbia average 7
repeat dog sitting clients

FAQs for Dog Sitting - Columbia

Frequently asked questions about Rover

The average cost of Dog Sitting in Columbia is $23 per visit as of October 2026. Most bookings cost between $16 and $33 per visit. On Rover, sitters set their own rates based on factors such as their experience, the length of care, the number of pets, and your pet’s specific needs. As long as your booking dates and pet profiles are accurate, the price shown before you confirm is the total, including any booking fee.

As of October 2026, there are 14,069 sitters on Rover offering Dog Sitting across Columbia. Enter your ZIP code to see which available sitters are closest to your home.

You and your sitter can agree on a care schedule that fits your pet’s routine and the sitter’s availability. Pet Sitting can be booked as a one-time or recurring drop-in visit. If you need overnight care or dog walks, you may also be able to book House Sitting or Dog Walking through Rover with the same sitter, provided they offer those services.

Before booking, confirm:

  • the timing, length, and frequency of visits;
  • the care instructions the sitter should follow;
  • which parts of your pet’s usual routine should be prioritized;
  • how often you would like to receive messages, photos, or other updates.

Not every sitter offers the same services, availability, or booking options. Review their profile and discuss the care you need through Rover before booking each service.

Key handling is entirely up to you and your sitter to agree on during the Meet & Greet or in the Rover app. Most pet parents in Columbia choose to hand over a spare key or digital fob in person, while others arrange a lockbox or unique access code. Don't forget to discuss key returns as well!

Every sitter on Rover is required to pass a background check before listing their services. This process confirms their identity and indicates they are not on the Department of Justice’s National Sex Offender Public Website or have any disqualifying offenses.

Beyond ID checks, you can review each sitter's star rating, read verified reviews from other pet parents, and see how many repeat clients they have. Every booking is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes up to 25,000 in eligible veterinary care. For more details, visit .

The Rover Guarantee is Rover’s commitment to your peace of mind every time you book. It includes 24/7 customer support, sitter access to advice from qualified veterinary professionals for diagnostic issues, and a reimbursement program for eligible veterinary care in the rare event something goes wrong.

All bookings are backed by the , which provides up to 25,000 in eligible veterinary care reimbursement.

A Meet & Greet is a casual meeting to vet potential sitters and communicate care needs for peace of mind before a booking begins. Only sitters who have never booked with you before can schedule a Meet & Greet on Rover; however, you are welcome to coordinate one in Rover messages with sitters you have previously booked. This can be helpful if you have a new pet or routine you want to go over with your sitter.

Meet & Greets can take place in person or virtually. If you are booking with a sitter for the first time, we recommend in-person Meet & Greets to get a clearer sense of how your sitter interacts with your pet or the new environment.

During the Meet & Greet, you will have a chance to walk through your pet's routine, medical needs, and unique quirks. Take the time to ask your sitter questions about their skills and expertise, and make sure the fit feels right for everyone. Meet & Greets are a great way to prepare your pet and sitter for longer stays or first-time bookings. Read our tips for your first .

While Rover doesn’t offer traditional subscription services, some sitters offer recurring bookings for services like home visits and dog walking. Recurring services come with their own perks, such as flexibility to modify services (up to five weeks in advance), automatic billing, Rover Card updates, and same-day cancellations.

To find sitters in Columbia with recurring or weekly availability, select "Repeat Weekly" and which days you’d like them to care for your pet.

Yes, you can find sitters who have experience with handling special pet needs in Columbia. On Rover:

  • 85% of sitters can help with special care needs
  • 91% can help with giving oral medications or injections
  • 94% can help with daily exercise

You can also find pet sitters on Rover who accept only one pet at a time, which is ideal for anxious puppies, kittens, or senior pets who move at a gentler pace. Some sitters will also list availability for 24/7 care, also known as constant care, in their profiles.

Use the search filters to narrow down sitters whose specific experience or environment meets your pet's needs. When reaching out to your sitter, outline your pet's care routine and use the Meet & Greet to walk your sitter through your expectations.

sitters on Rover set their own , which you can find on their profile under their contact information. Sitters may set a same-day, one-, three-, or seven-day cancellation policy. Cancelling within your sitter’s cancellation policy qualifies you for a full refund.

Same-day cancellations for recurring services, which include walks, drop-ins, and day care, follow the full refund policy. Otherwise, for pet boarding and house sitting, if you cancel after 12 pm on the applicable cancellation deadline, you’ll receive a 50% refund for the first seven days of the booking and a 100% refund for any remaining days.

If your sitter needs to cancel within seven days of the booking's start date, then our reservation protection will kick in. This means you will get a full refund and our support team will work with you to find a replacement sitter.

Connect anywhere with the Rover app

Download on the App Store BadgeGet it on Google Play Badge