Doggy Day Care Iowa City
Drop off your dog at your sitter's home in the morning, and pick them up in the evening.
Over 133 pet parents in Iowa City have booked doggy day care
Iowa City, Find top rated doggy day care
Prices are estimates per day. Pricing may vary based on your search. A booking fee of 11% and taxes will apply.
“Jason was really friendly. Ollie had an excellent time with Jason and the doggy friends. We really appreciate how flexible he was on such a short notice. He was very responsive to all of our text, and updated us very often.”
“Auden was fantastic! Communication was great throughout the day along with photos of our pup playing and on walks! We definitely would love Auden to watch our dog again!”
About: Hi! My name is Grace, and I’m a NICU nurse at the University. I’ve grown up with dogs of all sizes and have always loved being around them. My husband, Taylor, and I live in a home with a fully fenced backyard along with our 3-year-old son and, part-time, my 11-year-old stepdaughter, who insists she’ll have 10 dogs of her own someday—haha! We also have an almost 5-year-old mini Goldendoodle. He lost his big brother a few years ago, and while now isn’t the right time for us to add another dog to our family, we thought hosting some furry playmates would be a fun way to keep him happy and social. For everyone’s comfort and safety, we’re only able to host dogs under about 35 pounds, as larger dogs tend to make ours anxious. He’s very used to playing with his 8–10-pound Yorkie cousins during the holidays and absolutely loves having canine friends to run around with! I work 12hr shifts on both Saturday and Sunday, then I am home all week. My husband is home on the weekends, so someone is always home. We allow dogs in our beds and on our couch. I am aware of poisonous foods and plants to dogs. I also make sure to follow instructions!
“Amazingx3 ! This is our first time using Rover and we had an amazing experience with Abbey! She took care of our shy fur baby for a day and he had a great day at her place. She updated us frequently with pictures and videos. Her dog Samantha is very friendly and kind to our dog. Overall, would 100% recommend for everyone!”
“I used to think that no other person could love my dog Oliver as much as I do... until I found Trish. She has been an absolute godsend to us and I could not be more grateful for her. It truly feels like I am dropping my dog off to spend the day with family in a home where he will be loved to no end. I wish I could give her 100 ⭐️'s and I HIGHLY recommend her for anybody in need of dog care!”
“Sidney took great care of our puppy, Bean! She kept us updated throughout the day with pictures and how Bean was doing! I would highly recommend Sidney if you’re looking for a good sitter!”
About: I have owned and cared for dogs my entire life and have had many neighbors back home request my dog sitting services. I am home all day, as I work remotely, and have a dog of Chocolate lab that loves to play but never gets to spend time with other dogs since we are new to the area. I definitely am open to negotiating prices so just reach out and we can have a conversation! I work remotely and will be available to care for dogs throughout the day and ensure they are well cared for. I work from 8-4 however have a lot of down time to care for dogs. I have a patio for dogs to be outside if they want to as well as a separate office space that my dog sleeps in at night. I also have a crate available if need be.
“I felt super comfortable leaving Penny with Emily and her family. They loved on Penny while I worked all day. Penny was always excited to go to doggy day care and super happy when I picked her up from a long day of playing. I would definitely use Emily again and recommend her for any of your fur babies.”
“The service Ali provided is exceptional. Banksy gets exposure to other dogs, exercise, and training while staying with Ali. Working in the medical field is not always conducive to getting Banksy the mental and physical exercise he needs- Ali provides these and has always been able to work around my unpredictable schedule. I consider myself a routine customer ?”
About: My experience includes behavior modification, rehabilitation and foster care. Since I was my daughters age I have been pet sitting and working with animals and would like to share the experience I work at home everyday but Thursday. We are available for dog walking and live close to a park trail and we are looking for a family interaction. Crate services, roaming and family integrated home. We are able to walk your animals and provide check ins. I know how animals are part of the family.
About: I have experience with all kinds of animals including: puppies, kittens, dogs, cats, senior cats and dogs. As well as hamsters, fish, hermit crabs, and farm animals. I recently moved to Iowa and pet sitting is my full time job. I will be going on maternity leave starting in August. If you have any questions please feel free to ask. I have 4 years of experience caring for dogs and cats at there homes. I always check to make sure they have fresh water and food as well as give them attention and let them out side to use the bathroom or clean litter boxes as necessary.
About: We love dogs and your little one will receive lots of love and one on one attention as we welcome him or her into our home. Our little Ronnie loves to play with dogs his own size or smaller. We don't have a fenced in yard, which means we will always be playing with and alongside your dog keeping him or her safe and happy and comfortable. We love to walk your dog also so he or she will get plenty of potty breaks and time to smell and get to know our neighborhood! We only care for one dog at a time, besides our own little guy Ronnie... so the two will become best friends! Faye is a full-time stay at home dog mom and my husband Rob helps take over dog care responsibilities after and before he goes to work. We make it a team effort so your dog will always have his or her needs met and get maximum love and attention. Safety comes first with your pet. We have a home that is safe and perfect for your little dog. We will welcome them into our family and treat them gently and with compassion... realizing that it's tough being away from your owners for a few days. We will love your puppy as much as we love our own Ronnie!
“First time with Ashleigh. Wilson seemed to have a great time. Got lots of pics. Ashleigh is an excellent communicator and a sweet person. I wish she was closer to me. I would have her sit very often.”
About: I have been talking care of family and friends animals since the age of 10 and still to this day. From walking to feeding to bathing, and grooming I have done it all. I wouldnt be the person I am today if it wernt for being around and taking care of animals. Pets make my life so much more enjoyable seeing them happy them showing love in return. I have a Morkie who is the biggest lover on this planet. She is great with other animals and will keep them great company. I also use to train dogs when I was younger and have had the privilege to train all of my family and friends pets. So if your fur baby is in need of a little extra help I would be thrilled to work with them! I am currently a stay at home mother who has lots of time and love to give and would be honored to care for your fur baby. I have a fenced in back yard and a very loving and friendly fur baby to keep your pet company and lots of toys and love to give little one
“Our goldendoodle Gus had a wonderful day with Shannon and her husband! Thank you for making Gus feel welcome in your beautiful home. He was one tired pup when he got home from all the walks and playtime with the stuffed toys!”
About: I grew up on a farm, so I've always been surrounded by animals and have developed a natural ability to care for them. This experience has taught me patience, responsibility, and a strong understanding of animal behavior. I’m not only comfortable with dogs of all ages but also have experience handling puppies and providing senior dog care. I work from home, which allows me to give your pet my full attention throughout the day. With a flexible schedule, I'll be the one taking care of your pet personally, ensuring they get plenty of walks, playtime, and cuddles. We have a dog at home and an unfenced yard, but we're just one block away from a dog park, so your pet will have plenty of opportunities for outdoor play and exercise. If needed, we can crate our dog to ensure safety and comfort during your pet's visit. We always prioritize the well-being of all pets in our care and will adjust our home environment as needed to meet your pet's needs.
The median cost per day for doggy day care in Iowa City is $30
Dog parents share their Rover experiences - Iowa City
Sidney was absolutely amazing! She went above and beyond for my baby girl Luna, could not recommend her more!! :) she took Luna on a walk, gave her treats and sent pictures and updates throughout the time she was watching her which I appreciated so much! This was my first time ever using this app and I am so glad I found someone amazing to watch my baby!!💗✨
Annayah was communicative, friendly, and excited to meet my dog. She sent pictures showing my dog having a good time with everyone, and she walked him twice the 5 hour stay. I picked up my dog happy and well regulated. I will definitely contact her first next time I’m in Iowa City :) Thanks!
Brooklyn was absolutely amazing, especially with everything happening last minute. I’ve been in the hospital for 4 weeks with my mom who is battling cancer, and finding someone trustworthy to care for my pup while we’re away from home has been so stressful. Brooklyn reached out right away, stepped in without hesitation, and made sure Snuggles was loved and cared for like family. She stayed in great communication, was so responsive, and truly reliable. I can’t thank her enough! I highly recommend Brooklyn to anyone needing someone kind, dependable, and caring for their fur baby. We’ll definitely be booking with her again — thank you so much, Brooklyn! 🐾💛
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- 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?
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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.
Meet local sitters who will treat your dogs like family
1. Search
Browse profiles of sitters near you who offer doggy day care
2. Meet In Person
Schedule a free in-person Meet & Greet to find the perfect fit
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Popular requests for doggy day care - Iowa City
Select a filter and find qualifying sitters offering doggy day care.Sitters in Iowa City average 8 repeat doggy day care clients
FAQs for Doggy Day Care - Iowa City
Frequently asked questions about Rover
The average cost for Doggy Day Care in Iowa City on Rover is $27.75 per day (as of August 2026). However, all sitters set their own rates based on experience, location, and availability.
Rover makes budgeting the cost of Doggy Day Care easy. As long as your dates and pet profiles are correct, the price you see before you book is the same price you pay for Doggy Day Care. For more information on service fees, click here .
As of August 2026, there are 124 sitters on Rover offering Doggy Day Care across Iowa City. Enter your ZIP code to see which available sitters are closest to your home.
Sitters on Rover can offer flexible scheduling, so you can coordinate times that work best for you and your pet—whether that’s early drop-off or later pick-up to match your Iowa City commute.
If your schedule changes, it’s best to let your sitter know through the app as early as possible. Many sitters can adjust pick-up and drop-off times when needed.
Think of doggy day care as your dog’s fun, supervised play date that happens to fit into your workday. Day care through Rover takes place in a real home. This offers a calmer and more personalized environment for your pup.
A typical day can include companionship, one-on-one attention, and same day pick-up and drop-off. Many sitters can also offer structured routines and exercise throughout the day. For recurring, weekly day care, sitters will include photo updates so you can see your dog in their element.
Here are tips for finding the ideal day care fit for your dog:
- For some small dogs: In-home day care can be the perfect fit. Look for sitters whose "can host" section only lists dogs weighing 0–7 kilograms and/or 7–18 kilograms. During your Meet & Greet, ask about play areas based on dog size and energy level.
- For high-energy dogs: The ideal doggy day care can offer scheduled breaks and outdoor spaces or activities. You can also find sitters who host multiple dogs to satisfy your pup’s socializing needs.
- For dogs who prefer human-only companionship: Use the filters "Doesn't own a dog" and "Only accepts one pet at a time" to find the right care.
Play groups can be an option when you book with a day care sitter through Rover. Many sitters do host a small number of dogs at the same time. Smaller dog packs are generally safer, more fun, and ideal for dogs who enjoy playtime but also want to relax throughout the day. When looking for your dog’s pack, check the sitter’s profile to see if they "Accept multiple clients" or have their own dogs. Then during the Meet & Greet, you can see whether your dog is a good fit for their social circle!
While each sitter sets their own vaccine requirements, staying up-to-date on your dog’s vaccines is the best way to be "boarding ready". Vaccinations help create a safe environment for all pets under a sitter’s care.
Many sitters in IA ask that dogs be up to date on core vaccines like the Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper, Canine Adenovirus, Bordetella, and Rabies.
By discussing your pet's health history early, you’re adding a layer of confidence for you and your sitter before the booking begins.
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 Rover's Trust & Safety page .
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 Rover Guarantee , which provides up to $25,000 in eligible veterinary care reimbursement.
A Meet & Greet is a short introductory meeting between you, your dog, and a sitter. It can take place in person or virtually, although we recommend in-person so that your pet can get to know your sitter 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. Most pet parents and sitters on Rover welcome Meet & Greets because the process can give confidence and peace of mind for service experiences, especially for longer stays or first-time bookings.
Yes, Rover is well-suited for finding sitters who can care for your pet within 24 hours. With 124 sitters in Iowa City, 84% respond to messages in under an hour.
You can message multiple sitters simultaneously to find the fastest available match. If you need care today or tomorrow, you can look for sitters with a "calendar last updated" notice on their profiles.
Sitters on Rover set their own cancellation policy, which you can find on their profile under their calendar availability.
Cancelling before a booking begins and before the sitter's cutoff time qualifies you for a full refund. Same-day cancellations for walks, day care, and drop-ins follow the full refund policy. Otherwise, for dog boarding and house sitting, you will receive a 50% refund for the first seven days of the booking and a 100% refund for the remaining days when you cancel the same day a booking should begin.
If your sitter needs to cancel within seven days of the booking's start date, then our reservation protection will kick in. This means our support team works with you to find a replacement sitter.
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