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Melinda W.

Bakersfield, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
13 reviews
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Services

These prices are for 1 dog.

Prices include all fees.

Melinda can care for

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

Availability

I am retired after a career in broadcast journalism & social media marketing. My availability is WIDE OPEN for any day of the week for all services I offer. I have recently moved back to Bakersfield from Bend, OR and I look forward to continuing to offer my services here. **I can keep your pets on schedule with their meals, medication, walks, play time and potty breaks. Whatever they may need while you're gone, I can take care of for you in your absence.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
House Sitting Cancellation Policy:

About Melinda W.

Communication

2 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
90% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

40 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

When caring for dogs, I am committed to creating an environment of safety, cleanliness, and an enjoyable environment based on their specific needs. I absolutely make sure all opportunities of escape are thwarted, ensuring their safety at all times. When I take them for walks, I make sure all harnesses and collars are worn appropriately, and they remain on leash at all times to ensure safety and control. I am attentive during play time to make sure they stay hydrated and take breaks when needed. I am always aware of unsafe opportunities such as plants and objects that could potentially hurt your dog. I am always prepared with basic first aid, and will have emergency contacts with me at all times. It's my goal, that the time I spend with your dog(s); will be happy, healthy and safe while you're away for 1 hour, 8 hours, or several days. Your dog(s) become an extended member of my pack!

Information Melinda W. would like to know about your pet

It's important to know about feeding schedules, and any medications that need to be administered. How often they may need potty breaks, things they may be uncomfortable with - my best friend's dog doesn't really like men that wear hats. Definitely know their vet information, any allergies, and just overall likes & dislikes. Are they dog friendly? Can they be off leash?

A typical day

I'd like to think a typical day would include a morning walk to get the day started! And afternoon walks too if that's encouraged. This might include some playtime with toys to fetch, swimming, or just a nice stroll in the neighborhood or nearby dog park or park. This would include lots of praise and affection to let them know they are being well looked after and safe.

Location

Bakersfield, CA

Melinda W.'s Neighborhood

Pets

Dogs are my favorite people!

Pet care experience

Hi my friends call me Mindy, and I have been caring for dogs since I was a kid. I grew-up with German Shepherds as members of our family, and I've taken care of dogs for friends and family for many years. I love all kinds of dogs from miniatures to Mastiff's, I've handled them all. I'm comfortable with high energy dogs, and dogs that may need extra patience and care. I am well versed in handling special diets, administering oral medications and administering shots if needed. I am experienced with puppies to senior dogs, those with anxiety, and other sensitive behaviors. I love to play with them with toys or mental interaction, or sit with them, or whatever activity they enjoy. I would love to take pictures and/or video and send them to you, and I can coordinate face time with you so you can see your baby/ies and say hello to them whenever you want. You can check out the pictures in my gallery of dogs I've cared for, and the pictures I've sent to their parents! I create a loving, caring and attentive environment where they will thrive and quite possibly not miss you while you're gone at all! I live by the rule: If I see a dog, I am legally required to say "hello" (in the universal voice used by many pet lovers), and briefly introduce myself.

Reviews

Suzanne M.
House Sitting • Dec 24, 2025
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As always Melinda is so great with my dog Lucy! She is very attentive and when I get home everything is tidy!! I highly recommend her!

Jamie S.
House Sitting • Dec 10, 2025
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Mindy is personable, reliable, and kind. Great sitter. She sent photos, too.

Zara H.
Drop-In Visits • Dec 06, 2025
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Mindy was so friendly, prompt, and made traveling so much easier sending pictures of Luna along the way. Thank you so much I will most definitely book with Mindy again!

Amber M.
Drop-In Visits • Nov 07, 2025
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Mindy is fantastic. We booked her last minute and she was wonderful with our two pups! We received frequent updates with some great pictures. We will definitely be using again. Highly recommend!!!

About Melinda W.

Communication

2 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
90% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

40 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

When caring for dogs, I am committed to creating an environment of safety, cleanliness, and an enjoyable environment based on their specific needs. I absolutely make sure all opportunities of escape are thwarted, ensuring their safety at all times. When I take them for walks, I make sure all harnesses and collars are worn appropriately, and they remain on leash at all times to ensure safety and control. I am attentive during play time to make sure they stay hydrated and take breaks when needed. I am always aware of unsafe opportunities such as plants and objects that could potentially hurt your dog. I am always prepared with basic first aid, and will have emergency contacts with me at all times. It's my goal, that the time I spend with your dog(s); will be happy, healthy and safe while you're away for 1 hour, 8 hours, or several days. Your dog(s) become an extended member of my pack!

Information Melinda W. would like to know about your pet

It's important to know about feeding schedules, and any medications that need to be administered. How often they may need potty breaks, things they may be uncomfortable with - my best friend's dog doesn't really like men that wear hats. Definitely know their vet information, any allergies, and just overall likes & dislikes. Are they dog friendly? Can they be off leash?

A typical day

I'd like to think a typical day would include a morning walk to get the day started! And afternoon walks too if that's encouraged. This might include some playtime with toys to fetch, swimming, or just a nice stroll in the neighborhood or nearby dog park or park. This would include lots of praise and affection to let them know they are being well looked after and safe.

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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Melinda W.

Bakersfield, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
13 reviews