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Rafael R.

Normal Heights, San Diego, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
3 reviews
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Services

These prices are for 1 dog.

Prices include all fees.

Rafael can host

0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
Spayed and neutered dogs only
Crate-trained dogs only
Takes only 1 client at a time

Rafael can care for

0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs

Availability

I work from home; currently, my life revolves around my dog’s needs, and I would be taking care of her alongside any other pets in my care. I wake up early (7am) to walk her, then either walk her or drive to a dog park at lunch time, then another walk in the evening at a large park where she can run around and play fetch or with another dog.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Boarding Cancellation Policy:

About Rafael R.

Communication

1 repeat pet parent
86% response rate
Usually responds in under an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

6 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

My apartment is decently sized for a 1 bedroom in SD. Normal Heights to be exact. When we are not out walking or playing outdoors, they will be in the company of my sweet dog, Luna, who loves other dogs! There are also big (secure) windows facing the front of the apartment complex where the dogs can people watch as I get some work done. I also have a small, fenced in yard with turf the dogs can lounge in.

Home

Lives in an apartment
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 1 dog
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 2-4 hours

Information Rafael R. would like to know about your pet

Let me know about any preferences or special needs your dog has, including diet, allergies, likes, dislikes, reactivity. My dog is fairly dog neutral, so does well with most dogs.

A typical day

Having a high energy dog, I walk her 3 times a day for at least a half hour each walk. The evening walk tends to be longer and off leash, playing fetch and tug, Luna’s favorite game.

Location

San Diego, CA

Rafael R.'s Neighborhood

Pets

Dog dad to energetic Sheperd mix!

Pet care experience

After 3 years of careful consideration and reflection, I became a dog dad to a sweet, energetic, (slightly spoiled), German Sheperd mix. I know how important she is to me, and will undoubtedly treat any dogs in my care with similar love and attention.

Reviews

Joel C.
Doggy Day Care • Jun 08, 2025
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Rafael has been such a blessing for my goldendoodle, Lola, and I. We moved cross country to San Diego and, unfortunately, I work long hours— hours which Lola would stay alone. Having found Rafael was the best thing ever! He ensures that my Lola is well taken care of while I’m working: he takes her on long walks, plays ball with her, and sends updates throughout the day. What makes Rafael stand out is that he treats Lola as his own, if there is any concern about her eating habits etc, he immediately lets me know. I would 100% hands down recommend him to anyone looking for a doggy sitter.

Ray C.
Apr 24, 2025

Rafael provided outstanding care for my dog while I was away. He was communicative, dependable, and clearly experienced. I received regular updates and photos, and it was obvious my dog was not only well cared for but genuinely happy and having a good time. His dog Luna is a sweetheart, and the two dogs got along great — they’ve even had a few playdates since, which my dog always looks forward to. It’s rare to find someone who treats your pet like their own, and Rafael absolutely did. I wouldn’t hesitate to book him again and honestly, I’d recommend doing so before his schedule fills up. Highly professional and truly trustworthy.

Ammie T.
Feb 08, 2023

Rafael has been a great help for me and Milo! As a busy college student, I initially struggled with maintaining my curricular as well as caring for my dog, Milo. Rafael played a crucial role in making sure I could balance both! I could rely on Rafael to stop by and tend to Milo's morning routine if I was late to class and many over night stays when I had to cram for exams. As a Maltese, Milo had a decent amount of grooming needs like tear stains and long non shedding hair, but Rafael was able to accommodate all of Milo's needs. Milo clearly adores Rafael and the both of us would definitely recommend Rafael and his services!

About Rafael R.

Communication

1 repeat pet parent
86% response rate
Usually responds in under an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

6 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

My apartment is decently sized for a 1 bedroom in SD. Normal Heights to be exact. When we are not out walking or playing outdoors, they will be in the company of my sweet dog, Luna, who loves other dogs! There are also big (secure) windows facing the front of the apartment complex where the dogs can people watch as I get some work done. I also have a small, fenced in yard with turf the dogs can lounge in.

Home

Lives in an apartment
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has 1 dog
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 2-4 hours

Information Rafael R. would like to know about your pet

Let me know about any preferences or special needs your dog has, including diet, allergies, likes, dislikes, reactivity. My dog is fairly dog neutral, so does well with most dogs.

A typical day

Having a high energy dog, I walk her 3 times a day for at least a half hour each walk. The evening walk tends to be longer and off leash, playing fetch and tug, Luna’s favorite game.

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

Rafael R.

Normal Heights, San Diego, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
3 reviews