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Kivilcim D.

Santa Cruz, CA

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

Services

Kivilcim can care for

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

Availability

I am a bioengineering Ph.D. Student, most of the time I have freedom of picking my hours, as well as working from home when needed!

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
House Sitting Cancellation Policy:

About Kivilcim D.

Communication

3 repeat pet parents
92% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
70% bookings with photo updates

Dog skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

I always start by learning as much as I can about your pet’s routine, preferences, health needs, and quirks. Whether it’s medication schedules, feeding routines, or special toys they love—I’m here to follow your instructions to a T. I do my best to keep your pet’s day feeling as normal as possible while you’re away. I’m extremely respectful of your home and always aim to leave it just as you left it (or better!). I double-check doors and windows, never leave pets unsupervised outside, and keep a tidy, pet-safe environment throughout the stay. I also send regular updates—photos, videos, and check-ins—so you can relax knowing your fur baby is happy and well cared for. If you ever need in-my-home care in the future (pending landlord approval!), my goal would be to provide a cozy, stress-free space that’s clean, safe, and set up to meet your pet’s unique needs.

Information Kivilcim D. would like to know about your pet

Before I care for any pet, I like to know a few important things to make sure I can give them the best experience possible: • Their daily routine – Feeding times, walk schedules, sleep habits, and favorite activities. • Medical needs – Any medications, allergies, past injuries, or health conditions I should be aware of. • Behavioral quirks – Are they shy, reactive to other dogs, nervous during storms, or afraid of loud noises? • Social preferences – Do they enjoy meeting new people or pets? Or prefer quiet, one-on-one time? • Training & boundaries – What commands they know, any rules you follow at home (furniture, treats, etc.). • Emergency contacts – Your vet info, and the best way to reach you while you’re away.

A typical day

A typical day with me starts with breakfast and a nice long walk—usually about an hour, depending on your dog’s energy level and routine. I love giving pets the time to sniff, explore, and stretch their legs before the day heats up. Once we’re back home, it’s time to relax and recharge during the warmer parts of the day—whether that means lounging in a cool spot, playing with toys indoors, or just getting some cozy downtime. In the late afternoon or early evening, we’ll head out again for a shorter walk or even a trip to a nearby dog park if they enjoy socializing. I always tailor the day to your pet’s personality—whether they’re a high-energy pup who loves fetch, or a more mellow buddy who just wants some company and cuddles. The goal is always to keep them happy, healthy, and feeling loved while you’re away!

Location

Santa Cruz, CA

Kivilcim D.'s Neighborhood

Paws-itively Best Pet&House Sitter

Pet care experience

What sets me apart is that caring for animals isn’t just something I do—it’s something I’ve lived my entire life. I grew up with a golden retriever named Arwen, and from 8th grade on, I was fully responsible for her walks, training, and care. I even started waking up an hour earlier every day just to make sure she got her morning walk in before school! Later, when I moved to the U.S. for college, I helped raise and train my roommate’s husky puppy, Ava, who struggled with separation anxiety. I’d take her to class, skate with her to tire her out, and help her stay calm and confident. It was like co-parenting a very energetic fur baby—and I loved every minute. I’ve cared for dogs of all ages and personalities—from hyper puppies to senior dogs with medical needs. My husband and I pet sat for two elderly Bichon Frises (17 years old!) every year while their owners traveled, carefully managing their diet, medications, and gentle exercise. I’ve also grown to love cats after living with Archie—my first real cat roommate—and have experience gently brushing, bonding, and caring for both indoor and stray cats (I even accidentally helped my mom adopt a kitten when I took in a stray!). Most recently, I taught my in-laws’ senior dog Ellie new tricks at the age of 7, proving that even older pups can learn with patience and love. We can’t have pets in our home right now due to landlord restrictions, so pet sitting is how I stay connected to what I love most—animals. I treat every pet like they’re my own, and I genuinely enjoy making them feel safe, happy, and loved while their humans are away.

Reviews

Chy L.
House Sitting • Nov 30, 2025
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Kivi was so fantastic watching my doodle Winnie while I was traveling for the week. She took her on so many adventures and kept me updated with consistent communication and it really allowed me to relax on my trip knowing her and my apartment was in good hands. Thanks so much again!

Rita S.
House Sitting • Aug 20, 2025
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Kivi was amazing with my sweet dog Nala. This was my first time asking Kivi to house sit, and she truly went above and beyond. Not only did she take Nala on great walks at the beach, but she hung out with her in her garden, sent me lots of pictures, and did all the things that Nala loves. I’m always a little nervous leaving my baby behind, but for a second I wondered if she was having more fun with me being away haha. I can tell Kivi is a genuine animal-loved, and she had a very kind and trustworthy nature. What more can you ask out of a house sitting experience?

Teena S.
Jul 29, 2025

Kay was a wonderful pet sitter to both my pups Benny (Aussie) and Rue (Lab) She not only was available last minute but was responsible and cared for my pups as if they were her own. I would recommend Kay to anyine looking for a dog walker or pet sitter!

Sarah P.
Jul 18, 2025

Kivilcim was a huge part of raising my husky and cared for her many times while we were in college. She’s incredibly kind, responsible, and has a natural way with animals. My dog always felt safe and happy with her, and I never had to worry. I would highly recommend Kivilcim to anyone looking for a trustworthy and loving dog walker!

About Kivilcim D.

Communication

3 repeat pet parents
92% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
70% bookings with photo updates

Dog skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

I always start by learning as much as I can about your pet’s routine, preferences, health needs, and quirks. Whether it’s medication schedules, feeding routines, or special toys they love—I’m here to follow your instructions to a T. I do my best to keep your pet’s day feeling as normal as possible while you’re away. I’m extremely respectful of your home and always aim to leave it just as you left it (or better!). I double-check doors and windows, never leave pets unsupervised outside, and keep a tidy, pet-safe environment throughout the stay. I also send regular updates—photos, videos, and check-ins—so you can relax knowing your fur baby is happy and well cared for. If you ever need in-my-home care in the future (pending landlord approval!), my goal would be to provide a cozy, stress-free space that’s clean, safe, and set up to meet your pet’s unique needs.

Information Kivilcim D. would like to know about your pet

Before I care for any pet, I like to know a few important things to make sure I can give them the best experience possible: • Their daily routine – Feeding times, walk schedules, sleep habits, and favorite activities. • Medical needs – Any medications, allergies, past injuries, or health conditions I should be aware of. • Behavioral quirks – Are they shy, reactive to other dogs, nervous during storms, or afraid of loud noises? • Social preferences – Do they enjoy meeting new people or pets? Or prefer quiet, one-on-one time? • Training & boundaries – What commands they know, any rules you follow at home (furniture, treats, etc.). • Emergency contacts – Your vet info, and the best way to reach you while you’re away.

A typical day

A typical day with me starts with breakfast and a nice long walk—usually about an hour, depending on your dog’s energy level and routine. I love giving pets the time to sniff, explore, and stretch their legs before the day heats up. Once we’re back home, it’s time to relax and recharge during the warmer parts of the day—whether that means lounging in a cool spot, playing with toys indoors, or just getting some cozy downtime. In the late afternoon or early evening, we’ll head out again for a shorter walk or even a trip to a nearby dog park if they enjoy socializing. I always tailor the day to your pet’s personality—whether they’re a high-energy pup who loves fetch, or a more mellow buddy who just wants some company and cuddles. The goal is always to keep them happy, healthy, and feeling loved while you’re away!

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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Kivilcim D.

Santa Cruz, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
7 reviews