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Melissa G.

Norfolk, VA

5.0 out of 5 stars
5 reviews
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Services

These prices are for 1 dog.

Prices may vary based on your selections. A booking fee of 11% will apply.

Melissa can host

0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
Spayed and neutered dogs only
No females in heat
Crate-trained dogs only
Takes only 1 client at a time

Availability

Pets fit very naturally into my daily routine since I have a flexible schedule and spend most of my time at home. I’m able to give them consistent attention throughout the day, including walks, playtime, feeding, and companionship. I live near beach access and, when appropriate, love taking dogs on walks there for fresh air and enrichment. I always tailor activities to each dog’s comfort level and your preferences. I also have a friendly 2-year-old Boston Terrier who loves other dogs, which can be great for socialization and play if your dog enjoys company. I like to keep a calm, structured environment and follow each dog’s normal routine as closely as possible so they feel comfortable and settled. Whether your dog is more active or prefers to relax, I adjust my day to match their needs. I also send regular updates and photos so you always know how your pet is doing.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Boarding Cancellation Policy:

About Melissa G.

Communication

2 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
80% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

My approach to pet care is centered around consistency, attention, and safety. I follow your dog’s normal routine as closely as possible, including feeding, walks, and any specific preferences or instructions. We have a fenced in yard and enforce thresholds with our own dog.

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 1 dog
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 0-2 hours

Information Melissa G. would like to know about your pet

I want to make sure your dog feels safe, happy, and set up for success while in my care, so I like to learn a bit about their personality and behavior: • How are they with other dogs? • How do they do with new people or children? • Do they have any reactivity or triggers (dogs, people, birds, etc.)? Any other behaviors I need to be aware about? • How are they on a leash and during walks? • How do they handle doors, gates, or other thresholds? Are they crate trained? • Are they up to date on vaccinations? Specifically flea and tick? The more I know, the better I can tailor their care and make sure they have a great experience.

A typical day

A typical day follows your dog’s routine with walks, meals, playtime, and plenty of attention throughout the day. I’m home most of the time, so your dog won’t be left alone for long. If it’s a good fit, I can include beach walks, and my friendly 2-year-old Boston Terrier can be a playmate. Evenings are calm with a final walk and wind-down time. I always tailor care to your dog and send regular updates.

Location

Norfolk, VA

Melissa G.'s Neighborhood

Pets

Your dog’s East Beach vacation 🐾

Pet care experience

Hi! I’m a dedicated dog lover with lifelong experience caring for my own dogs, and I truly understand how important it is to find someone you trust. I’m currently taking a step back from corporate life, which allows me to have a very flexible schedule and be fully present when caring for pets. Because of this, I’m able to give dogs consistent attention, companionship, and care throughout the day. I live near beach access and, when appropriate, love taking dogs on walks there for fresh air and enrichment. I always tailor activities to each dog’s comfort level and your preferences. I focus on creating a calm, safe, and loving environment where your dog can feel comfortable and at home. I follow routines closely and can also help reinforce basic training like sit, stay, and leash manners if needed. I prioritize individualized care and don’t overcrowd my schedule, so each dog gets plenty of attention. My goal is to make your dog feel happy, relaxed, and cared for just like they would at home. I’m also happy to do a meet-and-greet to make sure it’s a great fit!

Reviews

J D.
Boarding • May 16, 2026
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We couldn’t have asked for a better sitter for Charlie! Melissa was reliable, caring, and kept us updated with messages and photos while we were away. Charlie was happy, well cared for, and clearly felt comfortable with them. It gave us so much peace of mind knowing he was in such good hands. We would absolutely trust them again and highly recommend them to anyone looking for dependable and loving pet care.

Marcela H.
Doggy Day Care • May 05, 2026
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We are oh so happy with Melissa!! Her little dog Pappy is my baby English Bulldog’s best friend!! He loves going over there! Melissa is attentive and invested in our baby’s well being and safety. We love her and would recommend her to everyone!!

Marcela H.
Doggy Day Care • Apr 30, 2026
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Melissa is PHENOMENAL!!! A truly caring and dedicated sitter!! She was patient and kind and understands how much our baby means to us. To say she went above and beyond is a huge understatement!! I wish I could hire her full-time! Her baby Pappy is a huge cherry on top!! We are so happy!!

Virginia N.
Boarding • Apr 28, 2026
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Melissa was absolutely wonderful! She took such great care of our two dogs while we were away for the weekend. She was very communicative throughout the entire stay, sent lots of pictures, and gave us so much peace of mind knowing our girls were in good hands. It’s clear she truly cares about the pets she looks after. We came home to two very happy, well-cared-for pups, and I would not hesitate to book with Melissa again. Highly recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable and attentive sitter!

About Melissa G.

Communication

2 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
80% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

My approach to pet care is centered around consistency, attention, and safety. I follow your dog’s normal routine as closely as possible, including feeding, walks, and any specific preferences or instructions. We have a fenced in yard and enforce thresholds with our own dog.

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 1 dog
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 0-2 hours

Information Melissa G. would like to know about your pet

I want to make sure your dog feels safe, happy, and set up for success while in my care, so I like to learn a bit about their personality and behavior: • How are they with other dogs? • How do they do with new people or children? • Do they have any reactivity or triggers (dogs, people, birds, etc.)? Any other behaviors I need to be aware about? • How are they on a leash and during walks? • How do they handle doors, gates, or other thresholds? Are they crate trained? • Are they up to date on vaccinations? Specifically flea and tick? The more I know, the better I can tailor their care and make sure they have a great experience.

A typical day

A typical day follows your dog’s routine with walks, meals, playtime, and plenty of attention throughout the day. I’m home most of the time, so your dog won’t be left alone for long. If it’s a good fit, I can include beach walks, and my friendly 2-year-old Boston Terrier can be a playmate. Evenings are calm with a final walk and wind-down time. I always tailor care to your dog and send regular updates.

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

Melissa G.

Norfolk, VA

5.0 out of 5 stars
5 reviews