Profile image
Profile image

Melinda L.

Star Sitter

Lincoln Square, Chicago, IL

5.0 out of 5 stars
172 reviews
Image 1 of 7
Image 1 of 7
Image 2 of 7
Image 3 of 7
Image 4 of 7
Image 5 of 7
8PhotosView All

Services

Melinda can care for

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

Availability

I am working from home, which means I have a flexible schedule and would love to help you and your furry life partner(s) with morning, daytime, and early evening drop-ins or walks. I am not able to be a daily recurring walker, though.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Drop-In Visits Cancellation Policy:

About Melinda L.

Communication

40 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

I have spent 13.5 years with a cat who is convinced he wants to explore the outdoors (he does not), so I am well used to keeping escape artists safely inside.

Information Melinda L. would like to know about your pet

Please let me know your pet's preferred games and places to pet and/or avoid. Being away from their parents is stressful, so I want to do whatever I can to minimize their stress.

A typical day

For dogs, I enjoy taking them on fast walks, or weather permitting, jogs. I love keepaway, tug-of-war, and whatever games your pup likes. For cats, I'm a master of the wand toys and my own cat used to be a fetching master. I also love a good cuddle/kneading session.

Location

Chicago, IL

Melinda L.'s Neighborhood

Pets

Melinda L. has Star Sitter status

The Star Sitter program highlights responsive sitters who deliver highly rated care and have a history of listing accurate availability and preferences, making it easier for pet parents to find the best care for their pets.

Aussie sister, faithful cat servant

Pet care experience

My pet care philosophy is to be the caretaker that I want for my own kitties. I grew up with an endless supply of Australian Shepherds in my life, from the working dogs on my grandparents' farm to our own suburban herd. I took care of our three dogs from a young age, though based on their herding instincts, they'd say they were taking care of me. As an adult, I have had my life dominated by a handsome tuxedo boycat for more than 13 years. He trained me how to speak cat, while also keeping my cuddle and play skills sharp. I visit my parents' current Aussies as much as possible, determined to turn them into trail runners.

Reviews

Angela H.
Drop-In Visits • Apr 23, 2026
Profile image

Melinda is wonderful! As a repeat customer, I highly recommend her for your petsitting needs — she is thoughtful, thorough, and trustworthy with your home and pets. I’m grateful to have had her look after my cat while I was away for extended periods of time, and will absolutely continue to book her as petsitting needs arise in the future.

Katharine N.
Drop-In Visits • Jan 03, 2026
Profile image

Melinda always provides the utmost care to our cat and reassures us with her prompt updates. Her attention to detail and communication is fantastic.

Kimberley K.
Drop-In Visits • Nov 10, 2025
Profile image
Profile image

Melinda is an amazing sitter. My 16 year old scaredy cat warmed up to her in just 2 visits. She did not run and hide, but stayed out and let Melinda pet her. My other lovey cat, of course, was all over her. Adjusted feeding directions to fit the cats comfort level.

Katie K.
Drop-In Visits • Oct 27, 2025
Profile image

Melinda is my absolute favorite cat sitter. She’s very good with my cat and her various special needs, she makes sure she’s safe and happy, and is so communicative. I cannot recommend her enough!

About Melinda L.

Communication

40 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

I have spent 13.5 years with a cat who is convinced he wants to explore the outdoors (he does not), so I am well used to keeping escape artists safely inside.

Information Melinda L. would like to know about your pet

Please let me know your pet's preferred games and places to pet and/or avoid. Being away from their parents is stressful, so I want to do whatever I can to minimize their stress.

A typical day

For dogs, I enjoy taking them on fast walks, or weather permitting, jogs. I love keepaway, tug-of-war, and whatever games your pup likes. For cats, I'm a master of the wand toys and my own cat used to be a fetching master. I also love a good cuddle/kneading session.

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.
Profile image
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Profile image
Verified Enhanced Background Check

Melinda L.

Star Sitter

Lincoln Square, Chicago, IL

5.0 out of 5 stars
172 reviews