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Matthew R.

5.0 out of 5 stars
Profile image

Matthew R.

5.0 out of 5 stars

Contact for Drop-In Visits

from $16 per visit

Highlights

Basic background check
12 years of experience
Can administer medication
Special needs experience
Senior dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Pet care experience

Walks and Cuddles > Zoom calls 🐾

I’m a medical student living in Chicago, currently taking a sabbatical from school while working from home full-time in health and science policy. I grew up with dogs and cats have always loved having them around, so Rover is a great way for me to spend time with them! While in grad school, I regularly walked dogs, so I’m comfortable with dogs of all sizes, ages, breeds, and energy levels. I’m warm, compassionate, attentive, and detail-oriented, and I’ll treat your pet like my own. I’ve also served as a loving cat uncle to my sister’s and neighbors’ cats, house-sitting for them when they were out of town. I love getting outside and am equally happy with a leisurely neighborhood stroll, a longer walk, an urban adventure, or a run. Outside of spending time with animals, I enjoy indie films, backpacking, learning languages, improv comedy, board games, and exploring Chicago. I’m excited to get to know your pet and give them plenty of attention, exercise, and love while you’re away! 🐾

Qualifications

100% response rate
Usually responds within a few hours
100% bookings with photo updates
12 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

I know it’s a big deal to trust someone with your pet—and sometimes your home—so I want you to feel completely comfortable while you’re away. I’ll take the time to understand your pet’s routine, personality, and preferences, and I’ll follow your instructions closely. My goal is to care for your pet the way I would want someone to care for my own: with patience, affection, and plenty of attention. I’ll send frequent updates and photos, so you can see how your pet is doing and know they’re happy and in good hands. When house-sitting, I’ll also be respectful of your home and leave it the way I found it.

Ratings and reviews

5.0
stars
1 rating
George C.
5.0 out of 5 stars
House Sitting • Aug 17, 2026

Matt was wonderful with Faye. He was attentive, caring, and kept us updated while we were away. We felt completely at ease knowing she was in such good hands. We would absolutely recommend him!

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Amy R.
Jul 15, 2019

I know Matt through graduate school, and have been blown away by his leadership and responsibility, managing multiple student groups while simultaneously showing compassion for all of his peers. He often joins me to walk my neighbor’s dogs (2 German shepherds) who absolutely love him. Matt has a love of dogs and a keen awareness of how to keep them happy and safe.

Kaitlin R.
Jul 14, 2019

Matthew is kind, considerate, loving and responsible. He’s fantastic with animals and has an incredible attention to detail. My fur baby is over the moon to be in his care!

Lillie H.
Jul 13, 2019

Matt is a caring and thoughtful friend. One of his best attributes is that he gets along with everyone he encounters (dog and human). He was even able to win over my family's very protective dog. I'm certain that he will be responsible, loving, and accommodating as a dog sitter.

Rachel P.
Jul 13, 2019

Matt is a great guy who is wonderful with all animals! He watched our pets for a week while we were out of town and we couldn't have asked for a better pet sitter! He's kind, responsible, super smart and left us a sweet note at the end of our trip.

Calendar and availability

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Available
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Schedule

I work full-time from home, so I have a flexible schedule and am able to give your pet plenty of attention throughout the day. I can accommodate dog walks, cat drop-ins, extended visits, and overnight house sitting for both dogs and cats. I’m happy to work around your pet’s normal routine and schedule, whether that means regular walks and playtime or simply being around for company and cuddles.

Cats
0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs
Matthew can host up to 2 drop-ins per day
Every little furball has their own quirks, routines, and preferences, and I want to make my care as seamless and comfortable for them as possible. Please let me know about any special needs, medical conditions, medications, routines, behaviors, fears, or things they particularly love. The more I know ahead of time, the better I can make sure your pet feels happy, comfortable, and right at home 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.