Melissa M.
avon by the sea, NJ
Services
Melissa can care for
Availability
As a freelance TV and film producer I work remotely and have a flexible schedule, so pet care fits naturally into my day. I am available weekdays, weekends and holidays and can easily work around your schedule. Your pets receive real attention and time rather than a rushed visit squeezed between commitments.
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About Melissa M.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
I treat every home with the same care and respect I would want for my own. I follow instructions carefully, keep things tidy and make sure doors, gates and everything in the home is secure when I come and go. I stay attentive to pets and notice changes in behavior, energy or appetite and will flag anything that seems unusual. I am comfortable with medications, special feeding schedules and pets that need extra patience or a slower pace. My energy tends to be calm and consistent and animals seem to respond well to that. Most importantly, I ask questions.
Information Melissa M. would like to know about your pet
A meet and greet is required before first bookings because it helps create a better experience for everyone. It gives us the chance to go through your pet’s full routine, health needs, allergies, medications and any behavioral quirks so I can provide the right level of care. Keeping a pet’s routine consistent is extremely important, especially for animals with separation anxiety, and maintaining the structure they are used to helps them feel secure while you are away.
A typical day
Every pet is different so I follow your routine and take cues from them. Some dogs love longer walks, beach walks or exploring around town, while others prefer slow sniff walks around the block or relaxed backyard time. Playtime and exercise are always part of the day and when it is time to wind down I am happy to relax with them as well. Pets are welcome to sleep nearby if that helps them feel comfortable while you are away. With cats I focus on keeping things familiar and respecting their pace, whether that means playtime, quiet company or simply making sure their environment stays calm and consistent. It’s all about matching their energy!!
Location
avon by the sea, NJ
Pets
Melissa M. 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.
Your fur babies, my furry friends!
Pet care experience
Hello!! I started Rover during breast cancer treatment and it remains one of the best decisions I ever made. Being around animals keeps me grounded, gives me purpose, and reminds me every day why I love this work. As a lifelong pet owner, I genuinely understand the trust it takes to hand over the care of an animal you love so that’s not something I take lightly. I’m fully insured and take this seriously — this is my business, not a side gig. — My Background with Animals I’ve been caring for pets since my teens, fostering, volunteering at shelters, and helping with daily animal care on a TV show filmed at a sanctuary with nearly a hundred animals. I have experience with seniors, shy pets, special needs animals, and anxious dogs who need a calm and patient presence. I am currently pursuing my CPR certification. — Availability and Location I’m based on the Jersey Shore year round, so I’m fully available whether you need care in the height of summer or the quiet of the off season. — Staying In Touch Keeping you connected while you are away is something I take seriously. I follow routines closely, respond within minutes and am happy to work around your preferences, whether that means quick photo updates throughout the day, videos, a daily wrap up or all of the above. Just let me know what works best for you.
Cat care experience
Melissa also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Reviews
Melissa spent 4 days with our recently-adopted cat, Mama while we were away on vacation. She was very communicative and sent us regular photos and updates. She was very thorough in making sure she understood Mama’s temperament and her needs. Mama took to Melissa immediately and slept on the bed with her, and even rested on her (which she still hasn’t even done with us). I’d highly recommend Melissa and we would definitely book her again the next time we are away.
Melissa was wonderful. She helped us through a weeding weekend not just puppy sitting but great suggestions for local places. She was flexible, friendly, and very kind.
Great with my dog gave him longer walks than needed and a super nice person.
Melissa took care of our pooch and my son’s rescue dog during our daughter’s wedding weekend. We’ve used her before and we are fully comfortable with her ability and loving care. My son’s dog is somewhat wary of new people but warmed up to Melissa quickly. Our own dog goes crazy happy to see her! We highly recommend Melissa.
About Melissa M.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
I treat every home with the same care and respect I would want for my own. I follow instructions carefully, keep things tidy and make sure doors, gates and everything in the home is secure when I come and go. I stay attentive to pets and notice changes in behavior, energy or appetite and will flag anything that seems unusual. I am comfortable with medications, special feeding schedules and pets that need extra patience or a slower pace. My energy tends to be calm and consistent and animals seem to respond well to that. Most importantly, I ask questions.
Information Melissa M. would like to know about your pet
A meet and greet is required before first bookings because it helps create a better experience for everyone. It gives us the chance to go through your pet’s full routine, health needs, allergies, medications and any behavioral quirks so I can provide the right level of care. Keeping a pet’s routine consistent is extremely important, especially for animals with separation anxiety, and maintaining the structure they are used to helps them feel secure while you are away.
A typical day
Every pet is different so I follow your routine and take cues from them. Some dogs love longer walks, beach walks or exploring around town, while others prefer slow sniff walks around the block or relaxed backyard time. Playtime and exercise are always part of the day and when it is time to wind down I am happy to relax with them as well. Pets are welcome to sleep nearby if that helps them feel comfortable while you are away. With cats I focus on keeping things familiar and respecting their pace, whether that means playtime, quiet company or simply making sure their environment stays calm and consistent. It’s all about matching their energy!!
Melissa M.
avon by the sea, NJ