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Katherine D.

Encinitas, CA

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

Services

Katherine can host

0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs
Unspayed females accepted, neutered males only
No females in heat

Katherine can care for

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

Availability

My background as a professional photographer makes me a uniquely patient and observant pet sitter, as I am already trained to anticipate subtle body language and capture a pet's truest personality. I bring that same artistic eye and calm focus to my pet care, ensuring your "best friend" stays engaged and comfortable in their familiar routine. Because my 2026 photography schedule is flexible, I am now fully open for pet sitting and can offer the reliable, high-quality care your pets deserve. As a special bonus, you won't just get a safe and happy pet—you will also receive beautiful, high-quality "souvenir" photos of their daily adventures while you are away.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Boarding Cancellation Policy:

About Katherine D.

Communication

1 repeat pet parent
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
70% bookings with photo updates

Skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

In 2026, creating a safe and trustworthy environment for your pet is my highest priority. Whether I am caring for them in my home or yours, I begin every engagement with a thorough meet-and-greet to align on routines and tour the property for potential safety hazards. In your home, I strictly follow all security protocols, including locking gates, managing alarm codes, and ensuring hazardous items like cleaning supplies or loose cables are inaccessible. To build lasting trust, I maintain transparent communication by providing real-time updates and professional-quality photo check-ins throughout the day. My approach is designed to preserve your pet's familiar routine, reducing their stress while ensuring your home remains secure and respected in your absence.

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 2 cats
Children 6-12 years old
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 0-2 hours

Information Katherine D. would like to know about your pet

Before a booking, it’s helpful to know your pet’s daily routine, feeding schedule, potty needs, and exercise preferences. I also like to understand their personality, energy level, and any fears or triggers so I can care for them in a way that feels familiar and stress-free. It’s important to know about any medical needs, medications, allergies, or special care instructions, as well as behavioral details like leash manners, reactivity, or how they do around other animals or people. I also appreciate knowing what comforts your pet most—favorite toys, treats, sleeping spots, or routines—so I can make their time with me as positive and enjoyable as possible.

A typical day

A typical day with me is structured around your pet’s normal routine so they feel safe and at home. Mornings start with feeding, fresh water, and potty breaks or walks, followed by playtime and attention. Throughout the day, I provide exercise, enrichment, and plenty of check-ins, while keeping their space clean and comfortable. I also send regular Rover updates with photos and notes so you can relax knowing your pet is happy and well cared for. What fun activities will you do with the pets you watch? I tailor activities to each pet’s personality and energy level. For dogs, this includes walks, playtime, fetch, tug-of-war, puzzle toys, and basic training reinforcement if desired. For cats, I enjoy interactive play with wand toys or lasers, brushing, enrichment games, and cuddle time. Whether your pet loves to play or prefers quiet companionship, I make sure they get the attention, stimulation, and care they need.

Location

Encinitas, CA

Katherine D.'s Neighborhood

Pets

Your Pet's Favorite Plus One

Pet care experience

With over 30 years of experience, I provide personalized care that prioritizes your pet’s comfort and happiness. What sets me apart is my focus on behavioral consistency and specialized attention for different life stages. I have extensive experience in puppy training support, using positive reinforcement to maintain your training goals, as well as providing gentle senior care for older pets who prefer a slower pace and extra companionship. Whether it’s high-energy playtime or calming cuddles, I tailor every visit to match your pet's unique personality and energy levels.

Cat care experience

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Your Cat's Favorite Human Stand-In

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

Reviews

Caterina L.
Doggy Day Care • Aug 15, 2026
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Katie was awesome! She was so friendly and quick with communication, and was so understanding with my schedule. She took amazing care of my pup, with lots of pictures and updates. 100% recommend!

Sammi B.
Boarding • Aug 10, 2026
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Katherine took such great care of our dogs while we had to board them for a night very last minute. Her kids were so sweet and gentle with them and I could tell they would have preferred to stay a while longer! Will definitely be booking with her again!

Andrew W.
Doggy Day Care • Aug 10, 2026
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Katie was a dream to work with and our pup had a fantastic time hanging out with Katie and other furry friends! It’s so nice when someone is comfortable handling multiple pets, because the pets have such a great time together. We had great communication Katie, and she was very kind & welcoming to us neighborhoood-newcomers!

Michaela S.
Doggy Day Care • Aug 09, 2026
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Katie is so sweet and thoughtful with our puppy Moose. Katie watched our 9 month old Moosie girl for 3 days. She was incredibly great with communication and photo sharing. I love that other dogs were present at daycare so Moosie could socialize. Each day I brought her back I could tell Moose was so excited to be there. She came home exhausted and slept the rest of the evening! Would definitely recommend Katie and plan to use her again in the future. Thank you Katie for being so great!

About Katherine D.

Communication

1 repeat pet parent
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
70% bookings with photo updates

Skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

In 2026, creating a safe and trustworthy environment for your pet is my highest priority. Whether I am caring for them in my home or yours, I begin every engagement with a thorough meet-and-greet to align on routines and tour the property for potential safety hazards. In your home, I strictly follow all security protocols, including locking gates, managing alarm codes, and ensuring hazardous items like cleaning supplies or loose cables are inaccessible. To build lasting trust, I maintain transparent communication by providing real-time updates and professional-quality photo check-ins throughout the day. My approach is designed to preserve your pet's familiar routine, reducing their stress while ensuring your home remains secure and respected in your absence.

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 2 cats
Children 6-12 years old
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 0-2 hours

Information Katherine D. would like to know about your pet

Before a booking, it’s helpful to know your pet’s daily routine, feeding schedule, potty needs, and exercise preferences. I also like to understand their personality, energy level, and any fears or triggers so I can care for them in a way that feels familiar and stress-free. It’s important to know about any medical needs, medications, allergies, or special care instructions, as well as behavioral details like leash manners, reactivity, or how they do around other animals or people. I also appreciate knowing what comforts your pet most—favorite toys, treats, sleeping spots, or routines—so I can make their time with me as positive and enjoyable as possible.

A typical day

A typical day with me is structured around your pet’s normal routine so they feel safe and at home. Mornings start with feeding, fresh water, and potty breaks or walks, followed by playtime and attention. Throughout the day, I provide exercise, enrichment, and plenty of check-ins, while keeping their space clean and comfortable. I also send regular Rover updates with photos and notes so you can relax knowing your pet is happy and well cared for. What fun activities will you do with the pets you watch? I tailor activities to each pet’s personality and energy level. For dogs, this includes walks, playtime, fetch, tug-of-war, puzzle toys, and basic training reinforcement if desired. For cats, I enjoy interactive play with wand toys or lasers, brushing, enrichment games, and cuddle time. Whether your pet loves to play or prefers quiet companionship, I make sure they get the attention, stimulation, and care they need.

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
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Verified Enhanced Background Check

Katherine D.

Encinitas, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
8 reviews