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Rafael S.

5.0 out of 5 stars
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Rafael S.

5.0 out of 5 stars

Contact for Boarding

from $39 per night

Highlights

Enhanced background check
Has a fenced yard
Home full time
Can administer medication
Senior dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Pet care experience

I love pets like family!

I truly treat pets like family, maybe even more. Caring for animals has always been a natural part of my life. I’ve had dogs for as long as I can remember, and I’ve personally trained and cared for them throughout the years. I currently have two cats as well, so I’m very comfortable managing different types of pets and personalities. I volunteer in a shelter twice a month to help with walks and play time. I walk my dog once or twice a day and maintain a consistent routine, which helps pets feel safe, active, and happy. I also have experience around farm animals, since my mom has a farm in Brazil, where I’ve spent time helping care for a variety of animals. This has given me a broader understanding of animal behavior and needs. What sets me apart is my attentiveness and genuine love for animals. I work from home with a flexible schedule, so your pet will receive plenty of attention, supervision, and care throughout the day, including weekends. I’m also very detail-oriented when it comes to following your instructions, whether it’s feeding routines, medications, or special care for puppies or senior pets. Communication is very important to me. I’ll make sure to keep you updated and ensure your pet feels safe, comfortable, and loved at all times. Your pet will be welcomed into a calm, caring environment, just like part of the family.

Cat care experience

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Cat Lover with 2 Cats at Home

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

Qualifications

100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
80% bookings with photo updates
3 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Senior dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Ratings and reviews

5.0
stars
5 ratings
Jeff S.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Boarding • jun. 08, 2026

The dogs had lots of fun and were exhausted by the time I picked them up! The pictures were great to let me know they were okay and having a good time. Thanks again!

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Miss D.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Boarding • mei 04, 2026

Rafael is a wonderful, thoughtful and kind sitter. He kept in great contact, help transport Sunny when I needed the extra help. Amd provided a lovely home away from home. I highly recommend Rafael for any of your pet's needs.

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Levi W.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Boarding • mei 03, 2026

Rafael went above and beyond what you would expect from a dog sitter! With frequent photos and updates I knew our Rosey was well taken care of.

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Winston S.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Boarding • apr. 20, 2026

Rafael was incredible with our 14 year old beagle. We are very particular on who we leave our dog with and we felt great about leaving her with Rafael. His home is clean and safe. Such a nice and caring guy. He made the cutest report card for our dog. Sammy will definitely be visiting again when we go away.

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Kel L.
apr. 04, 2026

Rafa has watched my doodle G while I travel for last few years and I never have to worry about her while she’s when with him. She’s well taken care of and comes home exhausted. 😴

Calendar and availability

Available
Not available
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Available
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Schedule

I work from home, so I’m usually around and available throughout the day. I walk my dog in the morning, around lunchtime, and again in the evening, which helps keep a consistent routine. Because I’m home most of the time, I’m able to give pets plenty of attention, care, and supervision. If I step away, it’s usually just for a short call or meeting, so your pet will never be left alone for long. I’ll care for your pet just like I do my own, making sure they feel safe, comfortable, and well looked after. I’m also always available to answer any questions and keep you updated during the day.

Where your pet will stay

Home characteristics

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

Safety, trust & environment

Pets in my home are treated like family and are free to move around and feel comfortable. I live in a two-level raised ranch with plenty of space, and my pets are friendly and used to being around other animals. My dog and cats get along well, so visiting pets can feel relaxed and part of the environment. I also have a fenced yard where pets can safely enjoy some outdoor time. That said, I always follow each owner’s preferences, if your dog needs to be crated, kept on a specific routine, or has any special instructions, I’m happy to accommodate. My neighborhood is quiet and safe, with many dog owners nearby, which makes it a great environment for walks and daily activity. And I also work as a volunteer in a shelter and I’m very used to different types of dogs. Above all, I prioritize safety, supervision, and making sure your pet feels secure and at home.

Pets

A typical day

Dogs typically spend their day playing and socializing with my dog. During the first couple of days, I take time to help them get comfortable and get to know each other, and soon they’re happily running around the yard together. I provide one to two walks per day, which is great for keeping their energy balanced and helping them stay calm. At home, there are plenty of toys, and I love playing fetch with them in the backyard. It’s like a little pet spa and playground here, fun, safe, and always supervised. I also make sure to monitor their energy levels closely so they don’t get overstimulated and everyone stays happy and relaxed.

Cats
0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs
No females in heat
Rafael can host up to 5 pets per night
Let me know if your dog has any special needs or any behavior that I can be aware of. Like medical needs, seasonal allergies, etc.
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.