Sara B.
Merle Hay, IA
Cat Sitting and dog walking!
Pet care experience
Hello! Right now I'm offering drop in visits for dogs and cats, and dog walks. House-sitting I'm offering primarily just for cats (there is no way to turn off the dog option on Rover's scheduling for house-sitting dogs, so am just mentioning it here). I have been caring for dogs and cats for about 15 years. I've previously worked at a boarding kennel so have a lot of experience meeting and interacting with new pets. I'm also an approved "foster mom" for the Animal Rescue League, so have worked with dogs with special needs (socializing challenges, mobility issues, medical needs, etc). I have also cared for less traditional pets - fish/reptiles/guinea pigs, etc! I don't have children so my pets are very much my kids - and I understand how important they are to all of us! I prefer to pet sit in my client's home, so that your pets can stay in their usual routine as much as possible. This keeps their stress lower while you're away! This also keeps my corgi happy - as she is an "only dog" (aka a grumpy old lady) and prefers to stay home with my partner when I occasionally sit. My work hours are very flexible (including "work from home" options) so I can be very accommodating to your pets needs/regular schedule. I have cared for animals that have some special needs and medical issues as well - giving daily insulin to a diabetic dog, allergies, scheduling around weak bladder issues, etc!
Reviews
Sara is a highly motivated pet sitter—I cannot recommend her enough! She is great with all animals, and has a special knack for getting cats and dogs to trust her. Although my laundry list of instructions for the times she has been our cat-sitter have included delicate matters like different foods for different cats at different times and medication to be given daily, Sara was able to balance everything to the letter. She never seemed in a rush to just feed them and leave, as I had experienced with past pet sitters, and always took her time and gave them the attention they needed and deserved while I was away. My pets seemed happier upon my return than they ever had in the past, and I never had to worry about their well-being or safety. Knowing how much I hate to leave them and how much I worry, I received regular updates and even photos to show me that my “babies” were doing just fine which was a real relief that allowed me to enjoy my time away without worrying about them. I would HIGHLY recommend Sara to anyone in need of a sitter for any animal!
Sara has been an caring & highly attentive catsitter anytime I’ve needed sitting my for my fur baby. My cat is a senior with some dietary needs that Sara always met, and also found time to spend with her since she has a social nature. I never had any worries with Sara as my catsitter while I was away. I highly recommend her!
Sara is exceptionally fantastic with animals! I've had her cat sit for me and friends many times. When it comes to the care of the animals themselves, she is very kind and patient with the kitties, whether they need some love or whether they are grumpy or afraid and need some space, she knows how to read the room. She is always extremely thoughtful and respectful of my space, and closely follows any instructions left for the care of the animals. Above all else, Sara is always calm, level-headed, and has great judgement when there is something of concern or an emergency to be dealt with.
Sara is an awesome dog watcher. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for someone to watch their fur friend. She’s watched all 3 of my Boston terriers multiple times, and they’re a handful. each time she’s been great at keeping our home and dogs well taken care of, it’s truly amazing being able to travel and know that my fur babies Are being watched by Someone who is responsible and caring. She’s also great at communication, loves pets and she’s a all around friendly and awesome person!
About Sara B.
Communication
Skills
Information Sara B. would like to know about your pet
I do not have any breed preferences. I like to know a general run down of what their average day is like, so I can keep things similar to what they're used to. Do you leave a tv on for them when you leave? Do you crate them? When do you usually come and go/do feedings and bathroom breaks, etc!
A typical day
I offer dog walks twice a day. I enjoy playing with cats as well if your cat is playful - and am happy to bring some catnip toys as well if they would like that.
Services
Sara can watch in your home
About Sara B.
Communication
Skills
Information Sara B. would like to know about your pet
I do not have any breed preferences. I like to know a general run down of what their average day is like, so I can keep things similar to what they're used to. Do you leave a tv on for them when you leave? Do you crate them? When do you usually come and go/do feedings and bathroom breaks, etc!
A typical day
I offer dog walks twice a day. I enjoy playing with cats as well if your cat is playful - and am happy to bring some catnip toys as well if they would like that.
Location
Des Moines, IA
Pets
Sara B.
Merle Hay, IA