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Derek G.

5.0 out of 5 stars
1 repeat client
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Derek G.

5.0 out of 5 stars
1 repeat client

Contact for Drop-In Visits

from $13 per visit

Highlights

Enhanced background check
10 years of experience
Can administer medication
Senior dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Pet care experience

Your dog's new best friend

I took care of my neighbors four cats when I was a teenager, and I have owned several dogs and one cat over the course of my life. One of my dogs had canine cognitive decline (dementia), so I am familiar with that and all of the attached issues.

Qualifications

1 repeat pet parent
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
84% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards
10 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Senior dog experience

Safety, trust & environment

I like to make sure that pets are comfortable and that my presence is not an imposition on them. This means that I am on the lookout for signs that they need to go outside or that it is meal time. I give them as much attention as they want and then let them do their thing.

Ratings and reviews

5.0
stars
6 ratings
Crystal K.
5.0 out of 5 stars
House Sitting • giu 06, 2026

We have used Derek twice now and he has done an awesome job both times. Our small zoo of 2 Aussies and 4 cats seem to really love him.

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Sarah K.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Drop-In Visits • apr 16, 2026

Derek was great and kept me informed of how my cat was doing the entire time. Patiently waited for him to show his face since he is nervous about new people

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Crystal K.
5.0 out of 5 stars
House Sitting • apr 05, 2026

Derek was fantastic. We booked a housesitting with him on very short notice (11 hours). He was great with our 3 dogs and 4 cats and kept the house clean. Thank you SO much.

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Scott R.
5.0 out of 5 stars
House Sitting • mar 23, 2026

Took great care of the house and dogs. Derek was punctual and get me in the loop.

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Tina M.
mar 01, 2026

I have known Derek for several years and would trust him to care for my pets. He has a love for animals of all kinds and is very responsible and attentive to their needs. In fact, he helped me to raise my corgi from puppyhood which was no small task!

Ryn G.
feb 28, 2026

My pets LOVE Derek! I have three crazy dogs and one cat. Derek has taken care of them multiple times for shorter and longer periods. He keeps them safe, loved, and cared for, so my wife and I never have to worry about them when Derek is there! He loves all animals and will take great care your pets. We highly recommend!

Calendar and availability

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Available
Not available
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SMTWTFS

Schedule

I currently work two days a week in downtown Columbus, but that means that I am available some Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Otherwise, my schedule is flexible since my other work is self-guided.

Cats
0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs
Derek can host up to 3 drop-ins per day
How does this dog interact with other animals? How does this dog interact with other people? Does the dog have a tendency to get into things that they should not mess with, e.g. the trash can? What kinds of toys or games does the dog enjoy? How much activity does the dog require and does he/she have any physical limits? How often do they need to go out and how do they tell you? What are the dog's sleeping habits?
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.