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Ellen O.

West Hills, Spokane, WA

5.0 out of 5 stars
3 reviews
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Services

Ellen can care for

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

Availability

I am currently in transition from graduating medical school and beginning my residency. I have nothing to but study for board licensinv exams between now and July 1st. Also, I am sure you are curious, if you've gotten this far, why am I am physician and not a veterinarian? Well message me and I can explain. Animals are still my life but as a physician I am better able to broaden my scope and reach more people and animals to help.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Drop-In Visits Cancellation Policy:

About Ellen O.

Communication

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

Dog skills

17 years of experience
Oral medication administration
First aid/CPR
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

I provide personalized pet care in both my home and my clients' homes, ensuring each pet feels comfortable, safe, and well-cared for. In a client's home, I maintain their pet’s routine as closely as possible, offering feeding, exercise, playtime, and medication administration if needed. I create a calm, stress-free environment by respecting their space and providing familiar comforts. In my home, I offer a structured yet nurturing setting, with plenty of supervision, enrichment activities, and a safe space for relaxation. My experience as a veterinary assistant and animal caretaker allows me to tailor care to each pet’s specific needs, ensuring their happiness and well-being.

Information Ellen O. would like to know about your pet

I need to know for sitting, watching and drop in visits the following information: Health & Medical Needs ✅ Any Medical Conditions – Allergies, chronic illnesses, past injuries, or sensitivities. ✅ Medications – Type, dosage, and schedule if they require any medications. ✅ Veterinarian Contact Info – In case of emergency. ✅ Vaccination Status – Ensures they are up to date on necessary shots. Behavior & Personality ✅ Temperament – Are they friendly, shy, anxious, or energetic? ✅ Triggers & Fears – Loud noises, strangers, other animals, or specific situations. ✅ Aggression or Reactivity – Any history of aggression toward people, other pets, or specific triggers. ✅ Socialization – Do they get along with other animals or prefer solo time? Daily Routine & Preferences ✅ Feeding Schedule & Diet – Food type, portion size, and meal times. ✅ Exercise Needs – How much activity they require daily. ✅ Bathroom Routine – Frequency, preferred potty areas, and house-training status. ✅ Favorite Toys & Comfort Items – Helps them feel at home. Special Instructions ✅ Crate Training or Free Roaming? – Where do they sleep and feel safest? ✅ Commands & Training Cues – Words they recognize for obedience or safety. ✅ Emergency Plan – Contact info for a backup person in case the owner is unreachable. For Cats ✅ Litter Box Habits – Type of litter, cleaning schedule, and preferred location. ✅ Scratching Behavior – Any furniture preferences or scratching posts available. *I HAVE A CHECKLIST I TICK OFF UPON APPROVING REQUESTS, ETC* I want to KNOW your pet like I KNOW mine.

A typical day

For my dogs that I watch and take care of I like to do the following and th: ? Walks & Hikes – Exploring new trails, parks, or just a leisurely neighborhood stroll. ? Fetch & Scent Work– Great for high-energy pups who love to chase and play. ? Puzzle Toys & Treat Games – Keeps their mind engaged and sharp. ? Sniffari Walks – Letting dogs explore with their nose to stimulate natural instincts. ? Sprinkler or Pool Play – Perfect for water-loving dogs on hot days! (yes, I have portable pool for dogs) For Cats that I watch if the cat is willing and wanting to interact I will do some of the following: ? Interactive Play – Using feather wands, laser pointers, or toy mice to mimic hunting behavior. ? Puzzle Feeders – Encouraging problem-solving skills while eating. ? Cat Tunnels & Boxes – Fun hiding and exploration areas for adventurous cats. (You bet I have some!) *Biggest thing I have found about cats though, is they have to be willing to do these things. Sometimes I just let them chill, its stressful for them with new people in their territory*

Location

Spokane, WA

Ellen O.'s Neighborhood

Pets

Trusted Pet Care, Anytime, Anywhere

Pet care experience

What sets me apart from other sitters on Rover.com? First I would have to say is my extensive background in animal care and veterinary science. With years of experience as a veterinary assistant, I have developed a deep understanding of animal health, behavior, and emergency care. My academic foundation includes a degree in Animal Science/Veterinary Science from Oregon State University, complemented by a master's degree, further reinforcing my expertise in animal welfare. Beyond my clinical experience, I have worked hands-on as an animal caretaker for dogs, cats, and horses, ensuring their daily well-being, nutrition, exercise, and overall happiness. This combination of medical knowledge and practical caregiving allows me to recognize early signs of illness, handle pets with specialized needs, and provide a level of care that goes beyond basic sitting. Whether your pet requires medication administration, special dietary accommodations, or simply extra patience and understanding, I bring the skills necessary to keep them safe and comfortable. My background also means I’m well-versed in handling animals of all temperaments, from playful puppies to senior pets requiring gentle, attentive care. I strive to provide not just pet sitting but peace of mind, knowing your beloved companion is in knowledgeable and compassionate hands.

Cat care experience

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Expert Cat Care, Purfectly Tailored

Ellen also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.

Reviews

Joan N.
Dog Walking • May 09, 2025
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Ellen was wonderful! We loved the detailed reviews of our doggies walks and extra care she took with them. Great experience.

Molly K.
Drop-In Visits • Apr 17, 2025
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Ellen was just great! Her contact with us put us at ease. Her attention to the details of our pets medicine and needs was very reassuring. I would 100% recommend her and will use her again.

Matt O.
Feb 02, 2025

I’ve had the pleasure of having Ellen care for my pets, and I can confidently say she is one of the most trustworthy and dedicated pet caregivers out there. She goes above and beyond to ensure they feel comfortable, safe, and loved. Ellen’s attention to detail and genuine affection for animals shines through in everything she does. Whether it's feeding, walking, or just spending quality time with my pets, I always feel at ease knowing they’re in her capable hands.

About Ellen O.

Communication

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

Dog skills

17 years of experience
Oral medication administration
First aid/CPR
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

I provide personalized pet care in both my home and my clients' homes, ensuring each pet feels comfortable, safe, and well-cared for. In a client's home, I maintain their pet’s routine as closely as possible, offering feeding, exercise, playtime, and medication administration if needed. I create a calm, stress-free environment by respecting their space and providing familiar comforts. In my home, I offer a structured yet nurturing setting, with plenty of supervision, enrichment activities, and a safe space for relaxation. My experience as a veterinary assistant and animal caretaker allows me to tailor care to each pet’s specific needs, ensuring their happiness and well-being.

Information Ellen O. would like to know about your pet

I need to know for sitting, watching and drop in visits the following information: Health & Medical Needs ✅ Any Medical Conditions – Allergies, chronic illnesses, past injuries, or sensitivities. ✅ Medications – Type, dosage, and schedule if they require any medications. ✅ Veterinarian Contact Info – In case of emergency. ✅ Vaccination Status – Ensures they are up to date on necessary shots. Behavior & Personality ✅ Temperament – Are they friendly, shy, anxious, or energetic? ✅ Triggers & Fears – Loud noises, strangers, other animals, or specific situations. ✅ Aggression or Reactivity – Any history of aggression toward people, other pets, or specific triggers. ✅ Socialization – Do they get along with other animals or prefer solo time? Daily Routine & Preferences ✅ Feeding Schedule & Diet – Food type, portion size, and meal times. ✅ Exercise Needs – How much activity they require daily. ✅ Bathroom Routine – Frequency, preferred potty areas, and house-training status. ✅ Favorite Toys & Comfort Items – Helps them feel at home. Special Instructions ✅ Crate Training or Free Roaming? – Where do they sleep and feel safest? ✅ Commands & Training Cues – Words they recognize for obedience or safety. ✅ Emergency Plan – Contact info for a backup person in case the owner is unreachable. For Cats ✅ Litter Box Habits – Type of litter, cleaning schedule, and preferred location. ✅ Scratching Behavior – Any furniture preferences or scratching posts available. *I HAVE A CHECKLIST I TICK OFF UPON APPROVING REQUESTS, ETC* I want to KNOW your pet like I KNOW mine.

A typical day

For my dogs that I watch and take care of I like to do the following and th: ? Walks & Hikes – Exploring new trails, parks, or just a leisurely neighborhood stroll. ? Fetch & Scent Work– Great for high-energy pups who love to chase and play. ? Puzzle Toys & Treat Games – Keeps their mind engaged and sharp. ? Sniffari Walks – Letting dogs explore with their nose to stimulate natural instincts. ? Sprinkler or Pool Play – Perfect for water-loving dogs on hot days! (yes, I have portable pool for dogs) For Cats that I watch if the cat is willing and wanting to interact I will do some of the following: ? Interactive Play – Using feather wands, laser pointers, or toy mice to mimic hunting behavior. ? Puzzle Feeders – Encouraging problem-solving skills while eating. ? Cat Tunnels & Boxes – Fun hiding and exploration areas for adventurous cats. (You bet I have some!) *Biggest thing I have found about cats though, is they have to be willing to do these things. Sometimes I just let them chill, its stressful for them with new people in their territory*

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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Ellen O.

West Hills, Spokane, WA

5.0 out of 5 stars
3 reviews