House Sitting Leaf River

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Leaf River, Find top rated house sitting

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

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Sitter Profile Image: Laurel M.
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Laurel M.
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 13 reviews
6 repeat clients
25 years of experience
Oregon, IL, 61061

“Phenomenal sitter! My babies are tough and they love her to pieces! Laurel is so fantastic with animals. Truly. The house has never been in better hands! Thank you so much!”

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Romina H.
Sitter Profile Image: Samantha W.
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Samantha W.
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 3 reviews
2 repeat clients
15 years of experience
Polo, IL, 61064

“My pups took to Samantha immediately upon meeting her! Given that one of them can be real standoffish with people, we were shocked! Both of them sensed that she truly was a dog person and immediately bonded with her. She's mature and reliable and kept up wonderful communication with us throughout our trip. It gave us so much peace of mind seeing them. So happy in the pictures and knowing that they were being loved. Highly recommend she will be our first person we go to for future bookings.”

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H. Russ B.
Sitter Profile Image: Shayna S.
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Shayna S.
from
$55
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 6 reviews
4 years of experience
Byron, IL, 61010

“Shayna was wonderful with our w cats and 2 dogs. She stayed with them in our house, gave them lots of love, sent us updates every day. She was thoughtful and communicative and gentle. They were happy and very well cared for an we couldn't have asked for a better experience. We will book her again without hesitation. Thanks, Shayna!”

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Brooke B.
Sitter Profile Image: Molly S.
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Molly S.
from
$40
per night
4.8 out of 5 stars
• 10 reviews
3 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Oregon, IL, 61061

About: I've been pet sitting and dog walking for many years and have always had pets of my own. I love helping others with their pet needs and giving extra love to their fur babes! I also volunteer at shelters and foster when I can so, I have a lot of experience with different dogs with different types of personalities, quirky and all! I work from home and enjoy spending my extra time every day with the dogs and being outside! I am available for dog walking in the mornings or afternoons/evenings. I am available for drop in visits, house sitting and boarding. I have a 6' fenced in yard and two dog friendly pups of my own who love to run around the yard and play. I work full time from home so, I am always available if the dogs need anything. They get let outside every two hours and walked every day.

Sitter Profile Image: Meg J.
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Meg J.
from
$65
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 5 reviews
1 repeat client
10 years of experience
Stillman Valley, IL, 61084

About: I’ve been taking care of neighbors pets for 10 years! Neighbors have relied on me to feed their pets, bathe them, walk them and play with them!!! I have a baby and my schedule is completely open! Any days of the week! Whatever works best for you, i will work with to make sure you are happy and comfortable!!! I have a back door that leads to a field that i can take your pets out on! And maybe throw a toy and ball around!!!

Sitter Profile Image: Michelle E.
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Michelle E.
from
$65
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 44 reviews
15 repeat clients
42 years of experience
Rockford, IL, 61107

“2nd time using Michelle. Still awesome to work with. My dogs were excited to see her! Can’t get a better reception than that. Thank you for giving us a nice weekend away to visit family!”

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Denise A.
Sitter Profile Image: Reggi W.
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Reggi W.
from
$100
per night
4.9 out of 5 stars
• 144 reviews
56 repeat clients
30 years of experience
Rockford, IL, 61107

“super attentive to my concerns and the care of my pets. followed their routine to a T and provided lots of updates and pictures. took great care of my 2 dogs and 2 cats and communicated quickly and efficiently with me. when i came back my house was in amazing shape and all of my pets were very happy and calm.”

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Mackenzie Z.
Sitter Profile Image: Jesus M.
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Jesus M.
from
$27
per night
3 years of experience
Rockford, IL, 61104

About: Grew up taking care of three dogs at home. I am dependable,patient, and committed to providing attention, trustworthy care that helps pets feel comfortable and secure Pet care fits naturally into my daily routine because I have a flexible schedule . I can provide walks,playtime, feeding, and regular check ins while making sure each pet gets attention and care they need I follow each pets routine closely, including feeding, walks,playtime, and any special instructions. I keep a clean,safe, and calm environment, provide plenty of attention, and make sure pets feel comfortable while owners are away

Sitter Profile Image: Lisa N.
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Lisa N.
from
$72
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 53 reviews
12 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Freeport, IL, 61032

About: I’ve been caring for dogs of all breeds and sizes since I was 15. Over the years, we’ve provided both professional pet sitting and helped out friends and family—whether for short getaways or extended vacations. I’m a full-time stay-at-home mom and an animal lover! 🐾 My husband and I offer boarding for most dog sizes, and our home is always filled with love, play, and plenty of tail wags. We live on about 3 acres in beautiful El Dorado Hills, complete with a creek and a securely fenced portion of the yard where dogs can run freely, play fetch, splash in the water, or simply enjoy the fresh air. This setup gives your pup plenty of outdoor time in a safe and natural environment. We have two friendly, medium-sized dogs of our own—Mochi, a 4-year-old Golden Retriever, and Mila, a 2-year-old Goldendoodle. Both are fixed, gentle, and love having other dogs around. They enjoy playdates, cuddles, and are wonderful with our children (ages 17, 8, and 6). Our dogs are indoor dogs and have the run of our hardwood-floored downstairs. We use baby gates to separate carpeted areas, and there’s a designated, cozy sleeping space for your pup. Dogs are always supervised, both inside and out. We’re home full time, so your dog will get constant care, attention, and love. We’re also flexible—we understand that plans can change, and we’re happy to work with you to adjust as needed. We welcome dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds. Whether your pup loves fetch, water play, or just lounging, we’re here to make sure they have a fun, safe, and loving stay. If your dog has any special needs or preferences, please let us know—we’re always happy to accommodate! Looking forward to meeting your furry family member! 🐶 Sample Daily Dog Schedule Please note: Our schedule is flexible and may vary based on each pup’s individual needs, age, energy level, and weather. We provide a relaxed, at-home environment—very different from a traditional kennel. Morning • Wake-Up: Between 4:30–7:00 AM, depending on the dogs • First Potty & Play: Supervised outdoor time (weather permitting). Dogs are never left outside unattended. • Breakfast: Between 6:30–8:00 AM • Post-Breakfast Potty: About 30 minutes after eating Midday • Nap Time / Free Play: Dogs are encouraged to rest or enjoy calm indoor play. Puppies often nap more frequently. • Potty Breaks: Puppies are let out every 1–2 hours; adult dogs follow a more typical schedule Afternoon • Stimulation & Play Time: Between 3:00–5:00 PM we do light training, enrichment activities, or interactive play Evening • Dinner: Around 6:00–7:30 PM • Post-Dinner Potty: About 30 minutes after meals • Final Potty & Play: Between 8:30–9:30 PM • Tuck-In Time: After the final potty break, dogs settle in for the night ⸻ We focus on keeping dogs happy, active, and well cared for in a loving home environment. Our daily rhythm is built around play, rest, and affection—not rigid routines or cages. We have a fully fenced yard—about a quarter acre or more—where dogs can safely run, play, and explore. Our own pups are friendly, social, and love to wrestle, chase, and relax with other dogs. Because we provide a relaxed, home-based environment, we do not accept aggressive or overly reactive dogs. We carefully assess each dog’s temperament to ensure they’re a good fit for our home, our dogs, and our young children (ages, 8, and 6). Our kids are very comfortable around dogs and have been taught how to behave respectfully and gently with animals of all sizes and temperaments. Our top priority is maintaining a safe, happy, and stress-free space for every pup who stays with us.

Sitter Profile Image: Cassidy H.
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Cassidy H.
from
$50
per night
15 years of experience
German Valley, IL, 61039

About: I have taken care of dogs since I was able to drive myself. My neighbors, family members & friends have trusted me to care for their pets for years. I absolutely love dogs & would love to be able to help you keep them safe & happy in the home. I work 40 hours per week and my schedule changes weekly. So my pets get most of the attention after work or before. Check availability! My schedule is weird, but works because i have days off during the week. I have two dogs currently. I love caring for them & enjoy spending time with them after working, I would love to add a few more to the list.

Sitter Profile Image: Emily H.
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Emily H.
from
$50
per night
8 years of experience
Rockford, IL, 61109

About: I have taken care of friends and families pets since I was 16. I love taking them on walks and hanging out with them at home. I am currently working part time. I work 6 hours a day so I’m available to be with your pets outside of that time. I am free on weekends except if I have a game out of town but can make it back to where I won’t be gone for long. I make sure to keep the schedule that you have set for your pets. I try to make them as comfortable as possible. Hopefully they won’t care that you are not there.

Sitter Profile Image: Lily S.
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Lily S.
from
$20
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 5 reviews
1 repeat client
15 years of experience
Pecatonica, IL, 61063

“Lily was great with the animals and they looked very happy in the photos she sent.”

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Alicia H.
Sitter Profile Image: Estefanny O.
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Estefanny O.
from
$55
per night
4.9 out of 5 stars
• 39 reviews
12 repeat clients
9 years of experience
Rockford, IL, 61104

“This is my 2nd time booking Estefanny. She's great with my dogs and I don't have to worry about anything while we're away. I come home to happy dogs!”

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Sharon O.
Sitter Profile Image: Jason T.
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Jason T.
from
$45
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 2 reviews
1 repeat client
43 years of experience
DeKalb, IL, 60115

“He is very prompt with replies and Harvey is usually anxious but he seemed to be so relaxed around Jason even though it’s his first time. We requested for photos and updates every one hour to which he happily obliged. 😊☺️ I would gladly recommend him!”

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Sai G.
Sitter Profile Image: Rowan C.
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Rowan C.
from
$50
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 9 reviews
12 years of experience
DeKalb, IL, 60115

About: Hi, I'm Rowan! I provide specialized pet care for cats and dogs based on their unique needs! I offer boarding, house sitting, drop in visits, daycare, and dog walking. Does your pet need a lot of attention? Cuddles? Quiet time? Medication or monitoring? Whether your pet is energetic, elderly, or has special needs, I'm trained and equipped to make sure they get exactly what they need. I guarantee personalized pet care exceeding industry standards, quick and clear communication, and a positive experience for you and your furry family. My experience: I have several years of professional experience working at luxury dog daycare and boarding facilities. In these roles, I provided around the clock animal care, administered medications, provided special services for senior and disabled dogs, and more. I've also volunteered hundreds of hours as an animal care attendant and dog walker at animal shelters and non-profits like Tails. In addition to this, I have a lifetime of personal experience caring for cats and dogs for friends, colleagues, and neighbors! About me: I'm currently finishing my final semester (virtually) as a graduate student in cultural anthropology. During my BA program in environmental studies, I took multiple classes on animal behavior and animal ethics, so caring for animals is a long term passion of mine! Outside of that, I love painting, doing ceramics, and reading sci-fi novels. :) PLEASE NOTE: I only recieve messages via Rover. I do not recieve text messages. Thank you! I'm currently a graduate student in cultural anthropology finishing my final semester virtually. My schedule is extremely flexible and I'm able to respond quickly to whatever you or your pet need! For boarding: I live in a spacious apartment next to a big park where your pup can get plenty of outside time. I'm happy to play, cuddle, give space, go for walks, or provide anything else your pet needs. Because I live in an apartment, quiet dogs are preferred. For House sitting: When in your home, I'll follow all your instructions exactly and provide prompt communication. I'm also happy to send regular updates with pictures of your pet. :)

Sitter Profile Image: Shelly H.
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Shelly H.
from
$55
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 3 reviews
1 repeat client
10 years of experience
Rockford, IL, 61114

“Shelly was extremely attentive to my two girls while house sitting during my holiday trip. I was grateful for the many photos I received and she was accommodating about their routine. I recommend Shelly to anyone who wants peace of mind that their animals will be well taken care of.”

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Michael M.
Sitter Profile Image: Brooke B.
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Brooke B.
from
$60
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 10 reviews
30 years of experience
Brodhead, WI, 53520

“Brooke was just fabulous with all my fur babies! She is patient, inquisitive, kind and caring. She was in very in tune with my all four of my fur babies’ needs, and was responsive to my questions both in person and via the phone/text. Brooke caught on quickly to all their little idiosyncrasies and took it all in stride. I have had a dog that is terrified of any type of rainstorms. She can tell that a storm is coming when it’s two hours away! So, she needs her meds, her thundershirt and she needs understanding when it comes to getting her in her safe space. She even stayed calm when my cat brought her a mouse. None of my fur babies appeared to miss me at all! She sent me daily updates, considered each pet’s individual needs, and took good care of my home. My home is not easy to manage, but she handled it very well. My family loved the stories I shared from Brooke while I was on vacation with. I would highly for anyone’s pet sitting needs.”

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Laurie L.
Sitter Profile Image: Angela B.
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Angela B.
from
$70
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 31 reviews
7 repeat clients
22 years of experience
Sycamore, IL, 60178

“Angela is fantastic. I was thrilled she was able to accommodate me last minute. I came home to a clean house and a very happy puppy! I will definitely be booking her again!”

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Jeanne C.
Sitter Profile Image: Kira S.
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Kira S.
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 1 review
17 years of experience
Rockfalls, IL, 61071

“We are happy to have booked Kira for pet sitting our dogs. We would definitely book with her again.”

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Catherine F.
Sitter Profile Image: Diana K.
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Diana K.
from
$125
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 2 reviews
15 years of experience
Machesney park, IL, 61115

“Highly recommend Diana. Our Daisy loved her immediately at our initial meet and greet. She kept us informed of how Daisy was doing while we were away. Very in tune with the needs of our girl.”

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Karla & Rick V.
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The median cost per night for house sitting in Leaf River is $45

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Meet local sitters who will treat your pets like family

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Popular requests for house sitting - Leaf River

Select a filter and find qualifying sitters offering house sitting.

Sitters in Leaf River average 4
repeat house sitting clients

FAQs for House Sitting - Leaf River

Frequently asked questions about Rover

As of September 2026, there are 143 sitters on Rover offering House Sitting across Leaf River. Enter your ZIP code to see which available sitters are closest to your home.

Beyond belly rubs and feeding schedules, a house sitter’s presence may provide an additional layer of security for your home. However, you will need to arrange overnight stays and other household tasks with your sitter when reaching out to them. Not all sitters offer the same services. Common household tasks you can negotiate include:

  • Mail & deliveries: Collecting letters and packages so they don't pile up.
  • Plant care: Keeping your indoor or outdoor garden hydrated.
  • Trash & recycling: Taking trash cans to the curb on scheduled pickup days.
  • Home security: Sitters can stay overnight to keep your home occupied.

The best way to align on expectations is during your free Meet & Greet. Use this time to provide a "home cheat sheet" that includes your preferred Leaf River walking routes, the location of your favorite pet store, and any specific quirks about your home’s security or appliances.

It’s helpful to think of house sitting as a "home base" service. Most sitters in Leaf River maintain their normal daily routines, like running errands or heading to the office, meaning your pet should be comfortable being alone for a few hours at a time. If your pet needs a little extra company, here is how to find the perfect match:

  • Look for "WFH" sitters: Many sitters mention "Work from Home" on their profile to indicate they’ll be present for the majority of the day.
  • Update your pet’s profile: Write down how long your pet can comfortably be left alone. This helps sitters quickly determine if their schedule aligns with your needs.
  • Communicate 24/7 needs: Standard house sitting usually doesn't include constant supervision. If your pet requires round-the-clock care, be sure to discuss this upfront.

Tip: Use the Meet & Greet to confirm a sitter's typical "away" windows. Transparency ensures your pet stays happy and your sitter can plan their day effectively!

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 Leaf River 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!

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.

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 .

If a health concern arises during a stay, your sitter is instructed to contact you and our Trust & Safety team immediately and, if needed, take your pet to the closest veterinarian. Through our Trust & Safety support team, sitters can ask for diagnostic advice from a qualified veterinary professional if your pet is showing signs of possible illness.

For extra peace of mind, you can also prepare an authorization form for your regular vet. An authorization form outlines your preferred method of care and allows your sitter to bring your pet into their regular clinic.

Every qualified booking made on Rover is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes reimbursement for eligible emergency vet care.

A Meet & Greet is a short introductory meeting between you, your pet, 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.

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.

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

  • 100% of sitters can help with special care needs
  • 93% can help with giving oral medications or injections
  • 100% 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.

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