Kirsten V.
Kirsten V.
Contact for Boarding
from $80 per night
Highlights
Pet care experience
Experienced care for sensitive dogs
Hi, I'm Kirsten! I'm a huge animal lover and a dedicated rescue & animal rights advocate 🤍 I’ve been fostering dogs for over 10 years—many of whom needed extra support, including dogs with medical needs, anxiety, behavioral challenges, and puppies still learning about the world around them. I’m especially comfortable with dogs that may not be the “easiest”—they tend to be the ones I connect with most. My rescue/activism work is entirely volunteer-based and has come with a lot of personal time and expense. I'm joining Rover to help me offset some of those costs, but what matters most to me is being able to continue helping all dogs feel comfortable, safe, and cared for. How I support dogs with extra needs: Dogs with Anxiety or Behavioral Challenges: I create a calm, safe, and loving environment, and I meet every dog where they’re at—with patience, understanding, and compassion. I have extensive experience working with behaviors such as resource guarding, severe anxiety, reactivity, and socialization challenges. I pay close attention to each dog’s boundaries, offer consistent reassurance, and let them settle in at their own pace—whether that means playing, exploring, or simply relaxing. House Training: One of my strengths! Most of the dogs I’ve cared for were not fully house-trained when they arrived. I help build strong habits through consistency, frequent outdoor time, and positive reinforcement only. I am very patient and I love making dogs feel proud of themselves for each success- rewarding with treat & a lot of praise! Puppies: I help puppies learn the basics in a gentle, consistent way—redirecting teething, encouraging good habits, and setting them up for success. My home is always fully puppy-proofed so they can safely explore and learn. Medical Needs: You can count on me to stay on top of your dog’s care. I’ve worked with a wide range of medical needs and take monitoring seriously. I follow all care instructions closely, keep a careful eye on any concerns, and provide regular updates so you feel at ease. Companion: I do not overlap bookings (or with fosters), so your dog will always receive my full attention Your dog will also be spending time with my 5-year-old rescue, Shia—who has helped many foster dogs feel safe and settle in. He’s extremely intuitive, respectful of boundaries, and non-reactive. He’s happy to play or cuddle if your dog is interested, but just as content giving them space. 🤍🤍 At the end of the day, my goal is simple: I want every dog in my care to feel safe, cared for, and truly happy.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
My pup was happy after the walk. Kirsten followed all the instructions I sent clearly. Would have her walk him again.

Kirsten is super sweet and knowledgeable about taking care of dogs, especially anxious/sensitive ones. My puppy can be a little scared, and she let me in and guided us to a slow intro to her and her dog. She kept me posted through the day with pictures and videos. Definitely recommend!

Calendar and availability
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Schedule
Availability: Pet care is a natural part of my daily routine. I’m flexible and can accommodate pick-up or drop-offs at any time of day. (Please give notice it’s super early/late) I love to walk, but I also have a car here in JC. Flexibility: If your schedule changes or if you experience delays- no worries! I am very flexible- and your pet will be cared for until you are back. You’d never EVER would have to worry about your pet being uncared for because of delays. Updates: While your pet is with me, I send regular updates with photos so you always know how they’re doing. My goal is for you to feel completely at ease while you’re away 😇
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
The pets in my home will be in a loving, safe & comfortable environment. My home is fully dog-proofed. Because I am very experienced in fostering- I know how to make adjustments based on what each pet is comfortable with! My entire home is safe for even the most explorative of animals! I keep all trash, food, wires, and laundry inaccessible at all times (It’s a normal part of life of me, and how I keep my apartment set-up. Even my dining table is bar-height 😂)
Pets
A typical day
I live right next to multiple parks- and would love your pup to accompany me! He/she will also be spending time with my 5-year-old rescue, Shia—who is extremely intuitive, respectful of boundaries, and non-reactive. Shia will never turn down play-time! He also loves to cuddle with other dogs, but is also very content giving them space. I also love training dogs new tricks!
- Cats0 to 15 lbs16 to 40 lbs41 to 100 lbsover 101 lbsKirsten can host up to 2 pets per night
- I’m very comfortable with dogs that may not be the “easiest”—they tend to be the ones I connect with most! You can be transparent with me about any special needs or habits they have. No ask is too much!
