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Darren L.

Costa Mesa, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
5 reviews
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47PhotosView All
These prices are for 1 dog, including a booking fee of 11%.

Services

Darren can care for

0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs

Availability

I am working with animals part time while running a marketing and design freelance business. I have my own Australian Shepherd/Border Collie mix that keeps me busy all the time I’m not working on the computer building apps.

About Darren L.

Communication

1 repeat pet parent
87% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

20 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

Dogs are handled like my clients’ children, with the best care around and always with simple yet effective training techniques. Consistency is key! Each dog deserves the best care.

Information Darren L. would like to know about your pet

I love all dogs, especially high energy breeds. I have experience with herding dogs, service dogs, untrained dogs and well behaved dogs. Diet is also of utmost importance to me and I will make sure your dog eats what they are supposed to and does not eat anything unauthorized or unhealthy. I am alert and aware of my surroundings, especially with your pet inside and outside of your home in public spaces.

A typical day

I will run, play fetch, frisbee, walk, play mental stimulation games and provide basic training (sit/stay, recall, obedience and AKC good canine citizen techniques.) I also practice public access and good behavior on each walk, play session and feeding time. I take pride in making dogs’ owners see the best behavior after I leave your pup.

Location

Costa Mesa, CA

Darren L.'s Neighborhood

Pets

DEL

Pet care experience

I’m an assistant to my partner who has been in the industry for over 20 years as a vet tech/groomer/trainer, and I also help with a AKC handling club in Huntington Beach. I’m now offering sitting, basic training and walk/park sessions. I am surrounded by valuable knowledge and a passion for the pooches! Allow me to free up your time while still giving your pet the love they deserve! Book today!

Reviews

Shari A.
House Sitting • Juni 05, 2025
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Darren was fantastic with our shepherd puppy. Our pup is young and cannot be left alone yet. Darren stayed for 4 nights (5 days) and gave plenty of updates with photos and videos. Added bonus he introduced Odin to other dogs (always asking beforehand) so our pup had plenty of human and puppy playtime. When we came home our pup was happy and tired.

Russ S.
Mai 29, 2025

I have known Darren for 15 years. I have been a professional dog trainer for over that time and I have seen him really interact with many dogs in a great way. I trust him with all of our dogs, and believe me I am very picky. I also have a special needs child that I also trust him with. He helps out with our group training classes and as my business grows I hope to have him on board as one of our dog handlers. I believe that Darren can definitely handle any needs of your dog’s needs through Rover.

Marco U.
Dog Walking • Mai 27, 2025
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Excellent communication and my dog Sadie had a great time

Shari A.
House Sitting • Mai 17, 2025
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Darren was accommodating, easy to communicate with, and great with our puppy, Odin. We did a meet and greet to plan for overnight house sitting and then that same day we had a change of plans and needed a dog sitter for a few hours ASAP. Darren came to the rescue and was able to help us out. From the pictures our puppy seemed to really enjoy his company. Odin was also really calm when we got home. Super grateful. Thanks Darren!

About Darren L.

Communication

1 repeat pet parent
87% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

20 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

Dogs are handled like my clients’ children, with the best care around and always with simple yet effective training techniques. Consistency is key! Each dog deserves the best care.

Information Darren L. would like to know about your pet

I love all dogs, especially high energy breeds. I have experience with herding dogs, service dogs, untrained dogs and well behaved dogs. Diet is also of utmost importance to me and I will make sure your dog eats what they are supposed to and does not eat anything unauthorized or unhealthy. I am alert and aware of my surroundings, especially with your pet inside and outside of your home in public spaces.

A typical day

I will run, play fetch, frisbee, walk, play mental stimulation games and provide basic training (sit/stay, recall, obedience and AKC good canine citizen techniques.) I also practice public access and good behavior on each walk, play session and feeding time. I take pride in making dogs’ owners see the best behavior after I leave your pup.

Each sitter joining Rover needs to pass a background check. And by booking on Rover, you can get photo & message updates, 24/7 support, and reimbursement for eligible vet care.
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Verified Enhanced Background Check

Darren L.

Costa Mesa, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
5 reviews