Donna M.
Pacific Heights, CA
Experienced and Reliable Pet Sitter
Pet care experience
With over twenty years of pet care experience, I’ve had the joy of spending time with a wide range of pets—both cats and dogs—across all life stages, from playful puppies and kittens to senior companions. I’m comfortable administering oral medications and have also provided hands-on care for my sister’s aging pets, giving me valuable experience with the unique needs of older animals. This background has deepened my understanding, patience, and compassion when it comes to pet care. I’m known by friends and family for being incredibly intuitive with animals. I pay close attention to body language, energy, and subtle shifts in behavior that can signal when something isn’t quite right—or when a pet just needs a little extra love or reassurance. I especially connect with cats and understand their rhythms and boundaries. Whether your cat is shy and reserved or outgoing and playful, I meet them where they are and create a calm, comforting space that builds trust over time. Diligence is central to how I approach pet care. I believe in doing my homework—whether that’s getting to know your pet’s routine, preferences, or medical needs. I always take the time to ask detailed questions, learn about your pet’s habits and personality, and ensure that every detail is in place for a smooth and stress-free experience—for both you and your pet. My goal is always to honor the trust you're placing in me with clear communication, consistency, and follow-through. In addition to personal pet care, I’ve also been active in the local animal community. I’ve volunteered with Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) in San Francisco, an organization that once supported me and my animals during a challenging time. It’s important to me to give back and help others care for their beloved companions the way PAWS helped me. That experience has only strengthened my sense of responsibility and compassion for both pets and their people I'm available for overnight house sits, and I understand the importance of maintaining a pet’s routine and comfort in their own home. I treat every pet and home with the same respect and care I would my own. I am also an artist so you may see some photos depicting animals I've been in touch with over the years, in my photos. Please enjoy! : )
Cat care experience
Donna also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Reviews
Donna was great with Wick; having been a recent stray from Muttville SF, she paid close attention to his anxiety and tried to keep him comfortable and feeling safe. Given his size, she designed a 'step' so he could get up/down her couch and bed to reduce issues to his luxating patella. I would book Donna again in the future should the need arise.
Donna was a fantastic sitter for our cat, Sherlock! From start to finish her communication was great. She made pickup and dropoff easy and sent us updates and pictures throughout Sherlock’s stay, as we requested. Her home is spacious and Sherlock had plenty of space to play and explore. We highly recommend Donna’s services and will be booking her again in the future.
About Donna M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I care for every pet and home as if they were my own, treating them with the highest level of respect, love, and attention. I understand the deep trust it takes to leave a beloved family member in someone else's hands, and I never take that responsibility lightly. It’s truly an honor to be entrusted with your pet, and I’m committed to ensuring they feel safe, happy, and loved while in my care.
Information Donna M. would like to know about your pet
It’s very important to me to get to know your pet’s routine, preferences, and any special needs ahead of time. I like to learn about their feeding schedule, favorite toys, walking habits, energy level, and how they like to be approached or handled. If they have any medical conditions, sensitivities, or behavior quirks (like reactivity, separation anxiety, or fear of loud noises), I want to know in advance so I can provide the best care possible. The more details you can share, the better I can create a calm, safe, and consistent experience for your pet while you're away.
A typical day
Cats: Playtime is essential for a cat’s physical and mental health, and I take it seriously—but I also make it fun! I tailor activities based on each cat’s play style. For “birders,” I use feather wands and keep the action high—flying through the air to mimic birds in flight. For “mousers,” I go low—using toys that scurry across the floor or dive under blankets to simulate prey. I aim for about 45 minutes of active play each day, which helps with exercise, stimulation, and bonding. Whether they love to chase, pounce, or stalk, I make sure they feel seen, engaged, and enriched. Dogs: With dogs, I take the time to learn how they like to play—some love a good game of tug or fetch, others enjoy puzzle toys, scent games, or just a fun walk with lots of sniffing time. Walks are an important part of our day together, not just for exercise but also for mental stimulation and a healthy routine. I match my energy to theirs and make sure they feel both engaged and safe, whether it’s an active pup who loves movement or a senior dog who enjoys a slower, more relaxed pace.
Services
Donna can watch in your home
Availability
I have 40 years of laying down roots in my neighborhood in the Lower pac heights area in Sf. Most people consider me a trusted friend as well as a community leader. I am a retired business owner and working artist. I have a flexible schedule and spend most of my time enjoying painting out and about in different places or working in my studio in a relaxing calm creative space. As an artist I can work anywhere so pet sitting fits naturally into my daily routine—I have the time during the day to providing pets with plenty of attention, affection, and daily walks as well as that valuable “ play” time if they want it. I may be retired, but I’m energetic and lively, and I truly enjoy the companionship that pets bring. I have stopped boarding animals in my home as I’m finding that it is so disruptive to their routine most animals have become to stressed without their familiar neighborhood, familiar surroundings and without their family members. I'm happy to go to your house and sit where for your pet in his/ her home where they feel comfortable and safe. I understand the importance of maintaining a pet’s routine and comfort in their own home. I treat every pet and home with the same respect and care I would my own.
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About Donna M.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I care for every pet and home as if they were my own, treating them with the highest level of respect, love, and attention. I understand the deep trust it takes to leave a beloved family member in someone else's hands, and I never take that responsibility lightly. It’s truly an honor to be entrusted with your pet, and I’m committed to ensuring they feel safe, happy, and loved while in my care.
Information Donna M. would like to know about your pet
It’s very important to me to get to know your pet’s routine, preferences, and any special needs ahead of time. I like to learn about their feeding schedule, favorite toys, walking habits, energy level, and how they like to be approached or handled. If they have any medical conditions, sensitivities, or behavior quirks (like reactivity, separation anxiety, or fear of loud noises), I want to know in advance so I can provide the best care possible. The more details you can share, the better I can create a calm, safe, and consistent experience for your pet while you're away.
A typical day
Cats: Playtime is essential for a cat’s physical and mental health, and I take it seriously—but I also make it fun! I tailor activities based on each cat’s play style. For “birders,” I use feather wands and keep the action high—flying through the air to mimic birds in flight. For “mousers,” I go low—using toys that scurry across the floor or dive under blankets to simulate prey. I aim for about 45 minutes of active play each day, which helps with exercise, stimulation, and bonding. Whether they love to chase, pounce, or stalk, I make sure they feel seen, engaged, and enriched. Dogs: With dogs, I take the time to learn how they like to play—some love a good game of tug or fetch, others enjoy puzzle toys, scent games, or just a fun walk with lots of sniffing time. Walks are an important part of our day together, not just for exercise but also for mental stimulation and a healthy routine. I match my energy to theirs and make sure they feel both engaged and safe, whether it’s an active pup who loves movement or a senior dog who enjoys a slower, more relaxed pace.
Location
San Francisco, CA
Donna M.
Pacific Heights, CA