Melinda R.
Melinda R.
Highlights
Pet care experience
Friendly, experienced BC Pet Sitter
Animals are wonderful beings! They have a way of reminding us to slow down, be present and get outside. Having been without pets for quite a number of years, I am missing their presence in my life. I grew up with poodles, springer spaniels and terriers. I had two cats of my own (Ruth and Monica) for 17 yrs and loved them dearly. I'm keen to explore more of Vancouver Island and the neighbouring Gulf Islands. I love having access to nature (forest hikes and lakes and the ocean.) I'm also interested in exploring areas of the BC interior. I'm a devoted, reliable, dedicated animal lover and I take pride in doing any project to the best of my ability. I have a care-giver background, having worked in dental health and as a yoga teacher for many years. I have lots of experience with landscaping and I love to garden. I love building connections with people & animals. I am 'trauma-informed' and am familiar with 'Force Free' training principles. I'm comfortable with older pets and giving some meds as needed also. I've recently received a refresher with chicken coop care --gathering eggs, cleaning and maintaining the coop as well. Let's touch base with a phone call first to get a sense of each other. From there, if the 'fit' feels good--I'm happy to meet up in person on Vancouver Island. Alternatively, we can meet on video to get a feel for each other also. I'm proud of my 5 star reviews on THS and confident that I can provide top-notch care for your pets and plants and return your home in excellent condition. Looking forward to caring for your precious animal friends.
Cat care experience

Melinda also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Qualifications
Safety, trust & environment
As a detail oriented person with a healthcare background, I understand the importance of providing the highest level of care to your pets. My reviews on THS are consistently 5 star. I believe in the importance of leaving a place better than you found it. I've got fantastic personal & local references also. I'm registered with THS and House Sitters Canada. I have a recent police check also. I'm more than happy to meet and review things in detail over zoom or meet up in person on Vancouver Island. I'm happy to provide consistent, reliable and loving care with your detailed guidance and instructions. As a former health-care worker (dental assistant and dental hygienist), I understand the importance of detailed, compassionate care and supporting your pets needs and regular routines.
Ratings and reviews
Melinda was great and convinced me she has the confidence and dependability to take care of my dog. Because I am new to the Rover experience, I much appreciated that she wanted me to share all about my dog and our activities before we agreed that she would take care of him for about a week in my home. She was confident and calm with my dog and took on some yard care tasks in my absence. She reported to me every couple of days (as requested) documenting things were going well. I was away for an extended time and Melinda had to hand over dog sitting to a friend of mine, who confirmed that the dog was in great spirits and my house was left tidy and clean. I greatly appreciate her help, and I will hire her again when the need arises. Thanks Melinda!!
Melinda looked after our dog Benny for a week while we were away for our winter holidays . She was reliable, very diligent in reporting to us and sending us pictures daily . Benny seemed to have more activity with her than he usually has while we are home ! She took him on frequent walks and drove him to a dog park couple times as well! Our house was left clean and as immaculate as when we left . We will most definitely ask her to dogsit for us again
I met Melinda when she volunteered to come help with my silent disco beach-dances & we became friends. Melinda adores my cat & dog and lavishes lot of love & attention on them. She is very health-conscious and outdoorsy. She loves nature walks & hiking and I’m sure would keep your dogs active and engaged in fun outings. Melinda is a very caring & responsible person and a great choice for entrusting the care of your beloved pets and your home to. Mary, Victoria BC Canada
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
I'm working on some entrepreneurial and writing projects (WFM) so I'm happy to take pups out in the morning and evening for walks, and longer hikes on the weekend too! I love to hike and explore rural and forested areas. Exercise is an essential part of each of my days and I'm happy to continue the exercise routines that you have in place for your pets :). Breaks for 'play' time are great for pets and for humans too!
Prices include all fees.
