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Melissa R.

Fairview, NJ

4.4 out of 5 stars
5 reviews
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Services

Melissa can care for

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

Availability

My schedule is flexible, so 1 can easily fit walks, visits, or boarding into my day. I adjust to your dog's routine, making sure their normal timing, habits, and comfort stay in place.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Drop-In Visits Cancellation Policy:

About Melissa R.

Communication

3 repeat pet parents
92% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

Your dog will have a safe, private environment with no unfamiliar dogs. I only board multiple dogs if they’re from the same family, so your pet’s space stays calm, consistent, and low-stress. My home stays clean, comfortable, and focused on your dog’s routine without the chaos of large group boarding.

Information Melissa R. would like to know about your pet

Share your dog's routines, preferences, and any sensitivities so I can keep things consistent. I don't give injections, but I handle all other basic care to maintain their comfort and normal environment.

A typical day

A typical day matches your dog’s needs—walks, play, exploring the neighborhood, or relaxing indoors. I stay attentive to their cues and personality so the day feels familiar, safe, and comfortable for them.

Location

Fairview, NJ

Melissa R.'s Neighborhood

Dog lover, plant mom, good vibes

Pet care experience

Loyalty, trust, safety & the love for all types of animals are the key to a working pet environment. I fondly believe that a pet isn’t just a pet, but a part of the family. Luckily, I have been around dogs all my life and have been responsible for them for about 22 years. I have experience walking, sitting, along with some training. Walks with me aren’t just about potty breaks. It’s your pup’s time to get out & live life...just like us! It’s the time to work out all that built up energy and a time to be social. Belly rubs included! I currently work as a freelance hair colorist. My schedule is very flexible. I can offer drop in visits, walks, and extended stays whenever needed.

Cat care experience

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Caring cat lover, plant-friendly

Melissa also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.

Reviews

Anand M.
Boarding • Apr 21, 2026
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Melissa took care of Duke while we were away for a week, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. She kept us updated throughout and shared pictures and videos, which gave us great peace of mind. We’re really glad to have found someone nearby we can trust and rely on. Thank you, Melissa, for taking such great care of Duke—and for looking after the plants as well!

Jason B.
Boarding • Apr 13, 2026
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We left our 10-month-old puppy Chloe in her care for a 10-day stay while we were traveling. Before the stay, we clearly explained that she is still a puppy and requires supervision, frequent walks, and should not be left alone with a larger dog unsupervised. She agreed to all of this. However, during our trip, we received a message complaining about normal puppy behavior (accidents, chewing, needing attention), which had already been clearly communicated in advance. This message came while we were in the middle of a cruise, creating unnecessary stress when we had no ability to respond or help. We did not receive a single photo or update showing that Chloe was being taken on walks during the entire 10-day stay, which was expected. We provided all supplies and left a $120 tip, expecting proper care and understanding of basic puppy needs. Overall, this experience suggests a lack of preparedness for handling a young puppy. I would recommend booking only if your dog is fully trained and requires minimal supervision.

James E.
Drop-In Visits • Aug 04, 2021
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Melissa always takes great care of our kitties while we are away. She is very communicative and super nice!

Kristen A.
Drop-In Visits • Sep 02, 2019
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Nice person, very accommodating. She went above and beyond to take care of our two cats while we were away for a week. We came back to find them in good condition and not starved for attention. Would definitely recommend her.

About Melissa R.

Communication

3 repeat pet parents
92% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

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

Safety, trust & environment

Your dog will have a safe, private environment with no unfamiliar dogs. I only board multiple dogs if they’re from the same family, so your pet’s space stays calm, consistent, and low-stress. My home stays clean, comfortable, and focused on your dog’s routine without the chaos of large group boarding.

Information Melissa R. would like to know about your pet

Share your dog's routines, preferences, and any sensitivities so I can keep things consistent. I don't give injections, but I handle all other basic care to maintain their comfort and normal environment.

A typical day

A typical day matches your dog’s needs—walks, play, exploring the neighborhood, or relaxing indoors. I stay attentive to their cues and personality so the day feels familiar, safe, and comfortable for them.

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 R.

Fairview, NJ

4.4 out of 5 stars
5 reviews