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Melissa G.

Star Sitter

East Peoria, IL

5.0 out of 5 stars
103 reviews
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Services

Melissa can host

0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
Spayed and neutered dogs only
No females in heat
Takes only 1 client at a time

Availability

I work a flexible schedule, which gives me plenty of time to care for pups. I want your dog(s) to feel 100% at home in my home. My house is their house!

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Boarding Cancellation Policy:

About Melissa G.

Communication

44 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

17 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience

Safety, trust & environment

Dogs are allowed on the furniture. I also have a big bin of toys for pups to share. You’re welcome to bring the dog’s bed or blanket so they have the comforts of home during their stay.

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 4 dogs
Children 6-12 years old
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 2-4 hours

Information Melissa G. would like to know about your pet

It’s helpful to know if your dog has any quirks, commands they know, and how much prior interaction they have had with strangers and other dogs. Please also let me know if your dog has any sore, injuries, or other physical anomalies.

A typical day

Playtime outside (weather permitting) and indoors with lots of toys available. There are many comfortable places for dogs to snooze. Lots of cuddles on the couch, too!

Location

East Peoria, IL

Melissa G.'s Neighborhood

Pets

Melissa G. 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.

My home is a dog haven

Pet care experience

My approach to in-home dog sitting is literally, "make yourself at home." I set up dogs’ experience to mimic that of what it's like to be in their own home. I keep the dog’s routine and expectations so they can adapt and feel comfortable here. By maintaining consistency, dogs adjust faster to a new environment and are always excited to come back! I have a fenced-in yard with a wood privacy fence. Even then, I never leave dogs unattended in the yard. In addition, there is ample space in my home with beds and toys for pups to make themselves comfortable and enjoy their stay. I have four small dogs of my own: Otis (11-pound, long-haired chihuahua mix), Morticia (10-pound shih tzu), Raelynn (19-pound cocker spaniel), and Falkor (20-pound cocker spaniel). They all love other dogs and are always excited to have new dog friends to play with. I have gates set up to separate dogs during feeding times for safety and the dogs' comfort. If your dog is crated at night or when you’re not home, I have crates of all sizes and can accommodate that, so you don't have to lug the crate back and forth. I have worked with energetic dogs, shy dogs, special needs dogs, and even lazy dogs, during the past 17 years of in-home pet care and dog walking. I spent three years as a volunteer dog foster, which also prepared me to manage all dog temperaments and situations. I am happy to answer any questions you might have. I look forward to meeting you and your furry friend!

Reviews

Suzie J.
Boarding • Jul 10, 2026
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Thanks Melissa. Fraser once again had a great visit. Your family is so welcoming and he is right at home.

Carol G.
Boarding • Jun 29, 2026
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This was our first time leaving our 14 month old, Rosie, with a sitter outside the family. Melissa was FANTASTIC!!! She updated us on how Rosie was doing with this environment by email and sending pictures. Melissa's home is clean, inviting, and you can tell from the moment you see her welcome door mat that dogs are loved. Rosie will be back:)

Suzie J.
Boarding • Jun 15, 2026
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Melissa and her family made my senior dog so welcome. He has never come home that relaxed. Thank you to all of you for helping us have a great weekend with no worries about our boy being loved and happy.

Brooke B.
Boarding • May 08, 2026
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Melissa is amazing with Diggory. We feel so confident when we leave him. He loves to go and he comes back happy and well cared for. We love how she sends pictures and keeps him active. If he can’t be with us this is the place I’d want him to be. Thanks Melissa!

About Melissa G.

Communication

44 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

17 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience

Safety, trust & environment

Dogs are allowed on the furniture. I also have a big bin of toys for pups to share. You’re welcome to bring the dog’s bed or blanket so they have the comforts of home during their stay.

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 4 dogs
Children 6-12 years old
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 2-4 hours

Information Melissa G. would like to know about your pet

It’s helpful to know if your dog has any quirks, commands they know, and how much prior interaction they have had with strangers and other dogs. Please also let me know if your dog has any sore, injuries, or other physical anomalies.

A typical day

Playtime outside (weather permitting) and indoors with lots of toys available. There are many comfortable places for dogs to snooze. Lots of cuddles on the couch, too!

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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Verified Enhanced Background Check
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Verified Enhanced Background Check

Melissa G.

Star Sitter

East Peoria, IL

5.0 out of 5 stars
103 reviews