Melinda H.
Melinda H.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Happy Paws, Ocean Air & Wags
With over 15 years of experience in personalized pup walking and pet sitting, I’ve cared for all breeds, sizes, ages and temperaments. I’ve also fostered more than 35 puppies/dogs for rescue organizations; in addition to my own pets, helping them grow into confident social companions so that they can find their home. In addition, I bring over 11 years of dog training experience, allowing me to work confidently with shy, high-energy and/or behaviorally unique pups. I understand that every pup is different and I tailor my training to meet each one’s individual needs. Your pup’s safety, comfort and happiness are always my top priorities. I take the time to learn each individual's unique personality, routine and needs - whether that means high-energy playtime, structured walks and/or a sniffing safari for shy and/or senior pups. I always move at their comfort level, respect boundaries and use positive gentle handling to create a safe and stress-free experience. During every visit, I make sure your dog receives attentive care, companionship and plenty of enrichment. I’m happy to follow specific feeding routines, administer basic medications, reinforce training cues and keep their environment clean, safe and secure. With my background in photography, you’ll receive high-quality photo and video updates during each visit - so you can feel connected, reassured and confident that your pup is happy and well cared for while you’re away.
Cat care experience
Melinda also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
I’m very particular about who I trust to watch my senior pup but so happy I found Melinda. Last minute booking for a work event I had in town and she really came through. Gave me updates and photos, made him comfortable in her home and with her pup. If I’m ever in town I’ll gladly book again!
Melinda is an absolutely great! I travel frequently, so finding someone I genuinely trust with my dog Pyro is everything — and she delivers every single time. Pyro is not the easiest dog to win over, but Melinda is hands down his favorite person, which says it all. She’s attentive, kind, and he actually listens to her, which is more than I can say for most people! I recommend her without hesitation to anyone looking for a sitter who truly cares.
I have known Melinda H. for many years as we met rhrough an Alumni group of Indiana University grads. As long as I can remember, Melinda has been working with rescue groups, city officials and others to advocate for animal welfare. She is a long time animal lover, fostering and sitting for animals over the years, including my two cats Itsuike and Killian. When our beloved dog Kita was killed in a tragic accident, Melinda was there to help us during that difficult time. I highly recommend Melinda both as a customer of Rover and as a friend of Melinda. I would trust her with any animal but especially with cats and dogs. She has a patient manner that calms even the most nervous cat (Killian) or rowdy dog (Kita). You should hire her. Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information. I can be reached at (818) 370-8202 or you can email me at slivideo@gmail.com. Thanks, Steven Ireland
I have known Melinda for three years and she has watched both my dogs. I would her to friends because she bonds so well with my hard-to-impress dog, and she seems to have that way with other dogs. Further, she is timely and very dependable. She’s given me great advice regarding my pet’s health, and it was really useful! I completely trust her and know she is dedicated to our companions!
Melinda has such a heart for animals. I have her to thank for connecting me with my best friend/dog for the last 10 years. It is her love of animals that brought her to rescue my sweet dog off the euthanasia list and it was her who ensured he got the very best care to get healthy. She goes above and beyond to love on all pets. Over the last decade I have watched her rescue and care for countless animals. I have been on many walks with her and a variety of dogs and she is able to keep dogs with various needs and personalities safe. She is beyond trustworthy and has a real passion for what she does. I trust her fully with my pets. I would recommend her 100%.
Melinda is FABULOUS! She's flexible, knowledgeable, friendly, great with all kinds and sizes of pets and RELIABLE! If you're like me, it's hard to find people you trust to watch our fur friends! Melinda's one of those sitters that you can actually RELAX while you're gone because you don't have to WORRY! She follows directions like a champ and can definitely handle complicated dog and cat medical needs. She's worth every penny! Love her!!!
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I currently work from home, which gives me plenty of flexibility to provide your pets with the time, attention and care they deserve. I focus on keeping them both physically active and mentally stimulated, whether that’s through walks, playtime, enrichment activities and/or simply providing companionship.
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
We have access to two fenced-in dog parks within my complex, providing 2 safe and fun space for exercise and play. I also have a dog-friendly 5 year old spayed female dog, up-to-date with vaccines, who gets along great with both dogs and cats - she loves having company, whether it’s for playtime or just relaxing at home watching TV.
Pets
A typical day
Your pet’s safety, comfort and happiness are my top priorities. We’ll spend our time playing, enjoying enrichment activities like food and treat puzzles, learning fun tricks and going on engaging ‘sniffari’ walks, that let your pet explore the world at their own pace. I treat every pet like my own and tailor my care to their unique needs and routine. With my photography background, you’ll also receive high-quality photo and video updates during every visit - so you can relax knowing your pup is happy, safe and in great hands.