Pet Sitting & Drop Ins in Eastside, Santa Barbara, CA

About: Just returning to the app! My entire life has revolved around animals. I grew up in a family that always adopted the “unadoptable” dogs — seniors, medical cases, and those with serious behavioral challenges. That gave me early, real-world experience managing everything from reactivity and anxiety to advanced medical needs. For years, I’ve worked professionally in animal rescue, boarding facilities, and under skilled dog trainers. I’ve fostered dozens of dogs with both behavioral and medical special needs, including those requiring strict medication schedules, wound care, and post-surgical recovery. I am comfortable with dogs of every breed, size, and temperament — from bully breeds to high-drive working dogs to seniors who just need gentle support. Because of my background, I know the difference that true experience makes. Too often, pet owners are forced to leave their dogs with sitters who aren’t equipped to handle more than the basics. My goal is to offer the kind of care I expect for my own dogs: knowledgeable, reliability, and peace of mind. When your dog is with me, you can feel confident that they’re being cared for by someone who has dedicated years to understanding and working with animals at every level. I work from home with a fully flexible schedule, so I can tailor care around your dog’s needs. Your pup will have constant supervision and attentive care throughout the day We have a 5 acres and a fully dog proofed fenced yard for dogs to enjoy. We listen to what you tell us about their needs and personality and will cater to that. We know every dog is unique.

“Stephanie is wonderful. She is sweet and caring with my old dog. She is very responsive to questions and flexible in scheduling. Feel lucky to have found someone I can trust with my dog!”

Debby H.

About: I’ve cared for animals my whole life—dogs, cats, and especially puppies. I’ve personally trained two puppies from scratch, so I’m comfortable with the patience and consistency it takes to support a dog through their early years. I have a deep, intuitive connection with animals and often find I understand their energy and needs even better than people’s. I work for myself from home here in Santa Barbara, which means I have plenty of flexibility to give pets the time, attention, and companionship they deserve. Whether it's daily walks, belly rubs, or just a calm, safe space, I approach every animal with genuine care and a tender heart. I’m also very active, so long walks and outdoor time are a highlight for both me and the dogs I care for. I work for myself and from home, so my schedule is very flexible. That means I can easily adapt to your pet’s needs—whether it’s regular walks, drop-in visits, or overnight care. I’ll always make time to give your pet the attention and consistency they deserve. Every animal is unique, and I take the time to understand their individual needs, energy, and comfort level. I’ll meet your dog or cat where they’re at—whether that means extra space, extra snuggles, or gentle structure—with clear, compassionate boundaries to keep them safe and happy. If your pet is staying with me, they’ll be treated like one of my own. I live in a calm, pet-friendly apartment near Santa Barbara City College, with plenty of walkable paths and green spaces nearby. I love getting outside and take dogs on multiple long walks throughout the day. If your dog is social and has solid recall, I can bring them to local off-leash areas for supervised play and exploration. I have one small dog of my own—Pepper, a 3.5-year-old mixed breed who’s very friendly and well-socialized. I also have two young stepsons who are with us 50% of the time, so dogs staying in our home must be kid-friendly. The good news? Your dog will get plenty of love and attention from four caring humans. I’ve trained two of my own dogs from puppyhood and am confident managing a range of behaviors—from leash training to crate routines and basic obedience. I’m also comfortable administering medications and caring for senior pets or those with special needs. For cat care, I’m especially attuned to their unique rhythms and boundaries, and I provide calm, consistent care whether I’m visiting your home or caring for them during a stay. Whether I’m boarding, walking, or house sitting, your pet will be safe, respected, and genuinely cared for—just like family.

“We were so pleased with the care our rather old, rather shy cat received from Crispin. And, to my amazement-the kitty area was as clean as I left it. Crispin, both kitty and I thank you!”

Jane A.

About: Hello! I’m Kelli, and I’ve been taking care of animals friends, family, and even my job for as long as I can remember! I have a lot of animal care experience - everything from cats and dogs to large farm and zoo animals - so I know how to handle pets of any size! I’m looking for a way to make some extra money when I’m not working, so I hope you’ll trust me to take your fur baby! I am a zookeeper at the Santa Barbara Zoo, so animal care is my entire job. I pride myself on high levels of attention, safety, and love that I provide to all the animals around me! I am a very vigilant sitter, and I promise to take the very best care of your pet while out and about. If you have any special requests or questions, please feel free to reach out.

About: New to Santa Barbara and open to one time/reoccurring clients! I've been around and owned dogs/cats/lizards/bunnies/horses my whole life. I have 4 years of experience as a dog handler at doggy daycares in Arizona and most recently Chicago. Through my experience, I can confidently say I can follow feeding routines, administer medication, monitor dogs' behavior, and follow proper leashing procedures. I have worked with dogs under 10 lbs up to 150+. I have worked with high-anxiety, reactive and special needs dogs and can assure you I have all the patience in the world to insure the comfort and safety of your pet. I have a 1.5year old German Shepherd who has vastly expanded my skills in dog handling and training. At my most recent job one of my key roles was guiding puppies and adolescents through social interactions as well as practicing being on a leash. I’m happy to work on leash manners with dogs of any age! I am on Rover full time at the moment so I have all the time in the world for your furry friends! I do have my own dog and 2 cats so I’m not currently available for any over night stays. I have my own car and live close to down town so same day bookings are no problem! I am a strong believer in leaving a place better than you found it. I can assure you that safety, trust, ( and fun of course!) are my top priorities. I am very precise when following instructions and caregiving needs. My relationship with your furry friend is just as important to me as the relationship I have with you! I will be sure to have clear and consistent communication with you throughout any booking. I also love love love getting good pictures of pups and will be sure to send you many!

“Kathleen watched my cat Odie over a long weekend and took great care of him. She’s easy to communicate with, is very knowledgeable about animals, and sent plenty of pictures with each visit. I felt totally comfortable with her caring for Odie as soon as I met her. Thanks for taking such good care of Odie! I’d love to have you watch him again!”

Joseph D.

About: I have been a lifelong dog lover and love to play with dogs and take care of them! My daughter is also a great help and dogs love to play with her. We can’t wait to see yours! I am a stay at home mom, and am flexible and will stay home while I have your pup. We have a fenced yard so your pup can play safely. I’m available for boarding, walking, and daycare. We love animals and would love to give yours a lot of fun! Our front yard is fully fenced in for potty breaks and we live in a very safe, friendly and walkable neighborhood!

“Cassandra did a wonderful job watching our dogs on a niche rover experience to hold them while we got married inside the Santa Barbara courthouse!! Thank you for helping on our special day!”

Abby D.

About: With seven years of experience and as a certified dog trainer I embrace working with all types of dogs, no matter height, weight, age, breed or behavior. I can use training techniques to teach dogs obedience and other desirable behaviors. Or we can just enjoy each other's company. I have basic study of canines and their learning theory. I’m an Animal Behavior College alumni, I have interned at The Best Friends Animal Shelter in Los Angeles, CA. Please feel free to ask any questions. I will be more than happy to answer them. A mentally and physically tired dog is very happy dog. My calendar is up to date so feel free to reach out if you have any last minute requests! I will do my best to accommodate. After playing catch, a long walk and some dinner your pup will be ready for bed. I’m happy to follow his usual sleeping arrangement whether its sleeping in a crate or on his bed to ensure he feels comfortable and safe.

“Always great when we book with Leo - very attentive and flexible. Good communication while we were away, and we came home to a very happy cat! Will book again, for sure.”

John S.

About: I have cared for all animals, from dogs to reptiles to spiders! I love learning and caring for animals. Ones with energy are my favorite! I also love a good chill pet:) I work my animal care around my practies and class, I have 2 morning (6-8am) and 2 afternoon (11-2pm) practices a week, along with 2 evening classes on Tuesday Thursday (5-7pm). I have a good amount of time between my responsibilities for pet care! I live in an apartment so prefer to care out of home, would be happy to house a cat or small dog for a few days if needed!

“Kiersten replied quickly to our last second request to help check-in on our puppy Roxie. She was professional and sent some great pics on their walk together. Highly recommend!”

Sean H.

“Liliana was a great bunny sitter! She was reliable, on-time, and communicative, and most importantly I came home to two happy bunnies. Would recommend to anyone!”

Nora W.

About: Animals have been a big part of my life as I have always had pets of my own and volunteered with various animal rescue organizations. I am have experience working with dogs and cats of various ages and sizes. I have knowledge of basic training, senior care and administration of medications. Your pets wellbeing is what is most important to me and i make your pets behavioral and health needs my top priority. I’m generally available for walks and visits on weekdays after 5 PM and have flexible availability on weekends. I work remotely on Mondays and Thursdays and have Fridays off, which allows me to accommodate uninterrupted house-sitting needs during those days. I have a small fenced yard (where your dog would under constant supervision) and two friendly resident dogs who love doggie visitors. I have two crates and multiple playpens of various sizes. I live close to a tennis court which provides free tennis balls to neighborhood pups and am a short drive from the beach! My home is dog friendly with plenty of toys, dog beds, pet friendly furniture and treats. I have a family member who is home all day to provide your pet with extra love when I go to work.

“Thank you Aliyah, for taking such good care of Figgy and sending updates and photos. You made my time away less stressful knowing that she was being cared for so well. :) Nancy and Fig^^”

Nancy B.

About: Over 35 years of animal care experience with a lot of extra time on my hands post retirement. I would love to share that time with your fur babies!! I am a recently retired government employee of 27 years. I have three dogs and two cats of my own, including one special needs cat that is 15 years old. I live in Santa Barbara, but can travel and would love to care for your fur babies!! I will treat your babies and your home like they are my own! There is a risk of them potentially getting too much love as we are huge animal lovers in this house!!

“Maple was so well taken care of! It gave me a lot of piece of mind while I was away. Lana was always on time and took the time to make sure Maple was happy and healthy!”

Lauren S.

“Kayla was awesome with my kitties!!!! Definitely will be booking again.”

Francesca C.

“Cheryl was great first time meeting our shy pup. She is a real pro - taking her time to let our dog warm up to her and had him literally eating out of her hand in no time!”

Virginia C.