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John R.

Star Sitter

Hardy, VA

5.0 out of 5 stars
86 reviews
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Services

These prices are for 1 dog.

Prices may vary based on your selections. A booking fee of 11% will apply.

John can host

0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
Spayed and neutered dogs only
No females in heat
Takes only 1 client at a time

Availability

My schedule is entirely flexible, so it can be built around your pet's time with me. Basically, whenever they are ready for some attention, I will be there to provide it.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Boarding Cancellation Policy:

About John R.

Communication

22 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
100% bookings with photo updates

Skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

Your dog(s) will receive my full attention since I currently have no pets of my own. My commitment to you is to adhere as closely as possible to your dog's routine. At a minimum, your dog(s) will get two walks a day; if their routine is more frequent walks, that's what I will do. While I let dogs on the furniture and the bed, if this is something that is not allowed in your house then I will follow your direction regarding these behaviors. If it's convenient, I'll ask you to bring your dog's favorite toy and/or their bedding when you board them with me. I do this because the familiarity of these items will help alleviate the stress of being boarded. If you bring a crate for your dog, I'll maintain your routine in that regard. I'll also ensure they are fed on their current schedule. I'll also ask if they are allergic to anything. Finally, I'll arrange an introduction to your pet(s) at a location of your choosing prior to their first time staying with me so I am not a complete stranger to you or them.

Home

Lives in a house
Has an unfenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has no pets
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 2-4 hours

Information John R. would like to know about your pet

I'll make sure to know if your dog has any special needs, any behaviors you want to reinforce or discourage and how they typically spend their day.

A typical day

I live in a great neighborhood for walking dogs and they'll be able to enjoy some exercise and stimulate their senses with some new smells and sights. I'll customize my attention to their personality and preferences, whether it's a simple game of fetch, lots of petting and belly rubs, or some mental stimulation with things like a Snuffle Matt containing hidden treats they need to find.

Location

Hardy, VA

John R.'s Neighborhood

John R. has Star Sitter status

The Star Sitter program highlights responsive sitters who deliver highly rated care and have a history of listing accurate availability and preferences, making it easier for pet parents to find the best care for their pets.

Giving pets a vacation they deserve

Pet care experience

One of the key things that will help me care for dogs entrusted to me is my training in Fear Free principles as a Canine Enrichment Volunteer at the Roanoke Valley SPCA. Fear Free has become one of the single most transformative initiatives in the history of companion animal practice, providing unparalleled education on emotional wellbeing, enrichment, and the reduction of fear, anxiety, and stress in pets and improving the experience of every human and pet involved. Since dogs may experience stress, fear and/or anxiety when they are boarded outside your home, I feel I am well equipped to alleviate or prevent this. Another reason to choose me to care for your pet(s) is my commitment to donate 10% of my earnings through Rover to the Roanoke Valley SPCA. So, not only will your pet(s) be well-cared for when they are with me, you will be helping other animals which are less fortunate than yours.

Reviews

Eugene H.
Boarding • jun. 08, 2026
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John was amazing with our dogs. They have special needs and he kept them for an extended stay, while we couldn’t take them with us. During that time, he took pictures and sent daily messages of how they were doing. We really enjoyed the “pupdates” as we started calling them. John is super attentive and I believe our dogs had a fantastic vacation!

Debra S.
Boarding • apr. 27, 2026
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John was very professional leading up to our dog's first stay with him. He asked many questions regarding our dog's schedules/likes/needs/etc. He provided twice daily updates with pictures, and we think but are not sure that our dog might have had more fun than we did on vacation. She was clearly very comfortable with John, and it was obvious that he spent a lot of time playing with and providing her needed attention. We highly recommend John and will definitely use him again.

Brit B.
Boarding • apr. 22, 2026
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John is so awesome! Every day of our two week trip he sent short updates and pictures. We had never left our dog with a sitter that long before, but felt completely comfortable because we know he’s doesn’t just watch your dog, he truly cares. Daily walks and frisbee games, even noticing and taking care of a tick. We can’t express how grateful we are to be able to travel with that peace of mind.

Anitra B.
Boarding • mrt. 31, 2026
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Monty had a wonderful time with John. John is extremely professional, taking notes on the needs and preferences of the dogs in his care ahead of time, and had clearly reviewed these before we dropped Monty with him. He is very caring and clearly loves animals. His home is comfortable, safe, and with a lovely back yard. We would be absolutely delighted for Monty to stay with John again.

About John R.

Communication

22 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
100% bookings with photo updates

Skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

Your dog(s) will receive my full attention since I currently have no pets of my own. My commitment to you is to adhere as closely as possible to your dog's routine. At a minimum, your dog(s) will get two walks a day; if their routine is more frequent walks, that's what I will do. While I let dogs on the furniture and the bed, if this is something that is not allowed in your house then I will follow your direction regarding these behaviors. If it's convenient, I'll ask you to bring your dog's favorite toy and/or their bedding when you board them with me. I do this because the familiarity of these items will help alleviate the stress of being boarded. If you bring a crate for your dog, I'll maintain your routine in that regard. I'll also ensure they are fed on their current schedule. I'll also ask if they are allergic to anything. Finally, I'll arrange an introduction to your pet(s) at a location of your choosing prior to their first time staying with me so I am not a complete stranger to you or them.

Home

Lives in a house
Has an unfenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has no pets
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 2-4 hours

Information John R. would like to know about your pet

I'll make sure to know if your dog has any special needs, any behaviors you want to reinforce or discourage and how they typically spend their day.

A typical day

I live in a great neighborhood for walking dogs and they'll be able to enjoy some exercise and stimulate their senses with some new smells and sights. I'll customize my attention to their personality and preferences, whether it's a simple game of fetch, lots of petting and belly rubs, or some mental stimulation with things like a Snuffle Matt containing hidden treats they need to find.

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

John R.

Star Sitter

Hardy, VA

5.0 out of 5 stars
86 reviews