Melissa S.
Landers, CA





Care you can count on!
Pet care experience
As a lifelong animal lover, I’ve had the incredible privilege of caring for a wide variety of pets. From a hamster, gerbil, guinea pig, and rabbit to ducks, four cats, and three amazing dogs, my home has always been full of furry (and feathered) friends. Two of my beloved dogs, Frank and Ginger, taught me the importance of patience and attentive care, as they both required daily medications—Frank for a heart condition and Ginger for allergies. It wasn’t always easy, especially with Ginger's picky eating habits, but with dedication, we made every day count. I’ve also spent countless hours volunteering at animal shelters, including walking dogs at SW Washington Humane Society and Joshua Tree No Kill Shelter, as well as working with cats at Homeward Pet Adoption Center. These experiences have deepened my passion for ensuring animals feel safe, loved, and well cared for. Currently, I’m a proud dog mom to Tanner, a two-year-old rescue from Desert Hot Springs. He’s been my loyal companion, road trip sidekick, and hiking partner since he was just seven months old. Tanner will join me on any overnight stays, and I’d be happy to arrange a meet and greet to ensure your pets and mine are comfortable together. In addition to my hands-on experience, I’m also certified in small animal massage from the Northwest School of Animal Massage, which I completed in February 2023. I’m excited to bring this holistic approach to pet care, ensuring your pets feel relaxed and nurtured during their time with me. I look forward to caring for your pets with the same love, dedication, and expertise I’ve given to my own.
Cat care experience

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

Melissa is so lovely and took the best care of my pup!

Melissa saved our vacation by allowing us time in the national park where no dogs are allowed! She is lovely and her property is very spacious and well kept. Her 2 dogs were great company for my girl. Everyone got to have a fun day!
Melissa provides safe loving care and great customer service. She's an awesome human being and has a tremendous sense for the needs of our dog. She exercises him with either walks around the property or nearby trail hikes. I find Melissa to be reliable, trustworthy and awesome overall. My dog is high energy and can be hard to handle, so her consistency with positive reinforcement, coupled with the exercising, has helped our dog become more enjoyable and well behaved. Love her!
If you're looking for the best care for your dog, look no further than Melissa, mama of Tanner. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing her for years, and let me tell you, her love for dogs is unmatched. Whether it’s her own furry friends or mine, she is attentive, active, and always ready to provide top-notch care. She’s a pro at keeping dogs happy and healthy, both physically and mentally, with endless energy, kindness, and expertise as a dog mom. She’s the type of person you can count on not just for walks or playtime, but for emotional support—both for the dogs and their humans! And if you’re lucky enough to spend time with her, you’re bound to have a fun and laughter-filled Taco Tuesday at Tanner's too! With her knowledge, energy, and genuine love for dogs, Melissa will be an invaluable addition to the Rover team and an amazing caretaker for your pets. I can’t recommend her enough! Your care, support and love for my dogs is unmatched Melissa! Thank you.
About Melissa S.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I am excited to share that I reside on a fully fenced 2-acre property in Landers, which provides an ideal environment for pets to run and explore. With ample space, it truly feels like an amusement park for dogs! The open layout features very few obstacles, allowing them to run freely and safely while always remaining within my line of sight. Additionally, the pets in my care will have open access to both residences located within the fenced area, ensuring they have a comfortable and secure environment. This setup not only promotes physical activity but also allows for plenty of social interaction and playtime, making it a perfect place for your furry family members to enjoy their time while you are away.
Home
Information Melissa S. would like to know about your pet
Please let me know if your dog has any special needs or specific behaviors that I should be aware of. My dog loves to run and play with other dogs, but I understand that not all pets may be comfortable with that level of activity. If your dog isn’t up for playing, I can easily keep mine separated during outdoor activities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Your pet’s comfort and well-being are my top priorities, and I’m here to provide the best care possible.
A typical day
I thoroughly enjoy taking walks with the dogs around my spacious property, allowing them to explore and engage their senses. It’s a wonderful opportunity for them to discover new scents and enjoy the great outdoors. After some exercise and playtime, we transition to a relaxing time indoors, where they can enjoy plenty of petting and, if they choose, a cozy nap. This routine not only keeps them active and happy but also fosters a strong bond between us. And once they’re recharged, we’ll do it all over again! It’s a fulfilling cycle of activity and relaxation that ensures your pets receive the care and attention they deserve.
Services
Melissa can host
Melissa can watch in your home
Availability
I am available for drop-in visits to care for your pets on most days. Whether you need someone to feed, walk, or simply spend time with your furry friends, I am here to help ensure they receive the love and attention they deserve while you are away.
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About Melissa S.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I am excited to share that I reside on a fully fenced 2-acre property in Landers, which provides an ideal environment for pets to run and explore. With ample space, it truly feels like an amusement park for dogs! The open layout features very few obstacles, allowing them to run freely and safely while always remaining within my line of sight. Additionally, the pets in my care will have open access to both residences located within the fenced area, ensuring they have a comfortable and secure environment. This setup not only promotes physical activity but also allows for plenty of social interaction and playtime, making it a perfect place for your furry family members to enjoy their time while you are away.
Home
Information Melissa S. would like to know about your pet
Please let me know if your dog has any special needs or specific behaviors that I should be aware of. My dog loves to run and play with other dogs, but I understand that not all pets may be comfortable with that level of activity. If your dog isn’t up for playing, I can easily keep mine separated during outdoor activities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Your pet’s comfort and well-being are my top priorities, and I’m here to provide the best care possible.
A typical day
I thoroughly enjoy taking walks with the dogs around my spacious property, allowing them to explore and engage their senses. It’s a wonderful opportunity for them to discover new scents and enjoy the great outdoors. After some exercise and playtime, we transition to a relaxing time indoors, where they can enjoy plenty of petting and, if they choose, a cozy nap. This routine not only keeps them active and happy but also fosters a strong bond between us. And once they’re recharged, we’ll do it all over again! It’s a fulfilling cycle of activity and relaxation that ensures your pets receive the care and attention they deserve.
Location
Landers, CA
Pets




Melissa S.
Landers, CA