Sarah V.
Castro Valley, CA





Services
Sarah can care for
Availability
I have the flexibility to stay overnight at your residence. I will need to errands and have events during the week, and am usually back between 6-8 hours.
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About Sarah V.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
When providing at-home pet care, I am to cultivate a safe, clean, and calming environment. I follow your care instructions closely and take time discuss with you before your departure helpful details about your pet’s personality, preferences, and comfort needs-from their favorite walk route, to closing certain room door to prevent misadventures. I deeply value communication, so you’ll always know how things are going via updates tailored to your style (texts, photos, or detailed check-ins)-I want you to feel happy knowing your pet is happy. I approach each home with respect and care, knowing I’m stepping into a sacred part of your life: your family.
Information Sarah V. would like to know about your pet
-Daily routine (feeding times, walk schedule, sleep habits, etc.) -Favorite treats, toys, or calming activities -Medical needs: meds, special diets, vet contact info -Behavioral info: anxiety triggers, past aggression, social preferences -How much exercise/stimulation they need (especially for large dogs) -Any off-limits behaviors (e.g., scratching, biting, sensitivity to touch) -Whether your pet can be off-leash or needs leash precautions -Communication preferences while you’re away (text/photo frequency, emergency contact flow)
A typical day
I try to match your pet’s regular routine as closely as possible, because I know how comforting familiar rhythms can be when you're away. Whether it's a favorite walking route, a treat puzzle after dinner, or quiet cuddle time on the couch, I make sure your pet feels relaxed, loved, and cared for. I also love going on enriching walks, especially in nature or dog-friendly hiking trails (with your approval), and I always make time for play, belly rubs, or space-whatever your furry one needs most. I'm especially attentive to how pets behave when their humans are away and gently support them through any changes in mood or needs that arise.
Location
Castro Valley, CA
Belly Breath: Happy Pet (and You!)
Pet care experience
I’m a graduate student with a lifelong love of animals and a background in animal behavior and physiology. I’ve cared for senior pets, pets with chronic illnesses (like kidney disease), and animals with anxiety or behavioral needs-from feisty pitpulls to blind and deaf mutts. I’m confident administering medication, handling special diets, and keeping detailed track of symptoms and routines. I’ve also accompanied pets to vet visits, and I know how important it is for your furry friend to feel calm, safe, and loved in your absence. My priority is not just great care, but your peace of mind. That's why I especially enjoy caring for pets in their home-this ensures their highest well being, and thus supports your ability to enjoy what takes you out for an adventure or away!
Cat care experience

Sarah also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Reviews
Sarah was wonderful! She was easy to communicate with and our pup was well cared for. 5 stars for sure 🎉
"Sarita is one of those rare sitters who you can trust with your elderly pet and actually relax." Our dog, Rio, is 15, nearly deaf and dealing with joint pain and chronic digestive issues. His care isn’t simple: it involves tracking his food and supplements, monitoring his mobility, and adjusting his activity level daily. I don't worry when I have to leave Rio for out-of-state vacations, because Sarah always puts me at ease. She doesn't just follow his care plan; she values it. I get thoughtful updates daily, often with a photo from a walk or a cozy rest. She is observant, flexible, and clearly committed to his comfort. Rio can be a little particular, but when I come home, he is always content. Sarah is reliable, kind, and that's why we keep asking her to care for Rio for the past ten years.
Sarah has a tender heart that animals feel comfortable with, even my rescue dog Indie! She has been on walks with Indie and it has gone very well, even though she is a big time puller. I recommend her to care for your pet / housesit your fur baby. She is trustworthy, kind, and puts animals at ease.
"The peace of mind Sarah gave me while I was out of the country was priceless." Sarah is an exceptional pet caregiver: attentive, meticulous, and authentically caring. I continue to trust her with our dog care, and wholeheartedly recommend her for your pet care needs. She has stayed in our home on multiple occasions, often for several weeks, while we travelled abroad. She provides consistent daily updates, photos, and thoughtful care decisions based on my dog’s changing needs. Our dog is a 15-year-old senior with advanced kidney disease, and limited sight and hearing. Sarah carefully monitors his food intake, energy, and mobility, adjusted his meals when needed, and maintains his usual rhythm so he feels secure. From symptom tracking to walk routines, she handles everything with skill and genuine compassion. You're in good hands!
About Sarah V.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
When providing at-home pet care, I am to cultivate a safe, clean, and calming environment. I follow your care instructions closely and take time discuss with you before your departure helpful details about your pet’s personality, preferences, and comfort needs-from their favorite walk route, to closing certain room door to prevent misadventures. I deeply value communication, so you’ll always know how things are going via updates tailored to your style (texts, photos, or detailed check-ins)-I want you to feel happy knowing your pet is happy. I approach each home with respect and care, knowing I’m stepping into a sacred part of your life: your family.
Information Sarah V. would like to know about your pet
-Daily routine (feeding times, walk schedule, sleep habits, etc.) -Favorite treats, toys, or calming activities -Medical needs: meds, special diets, vet contact info -Behavioral info: anxiety triggers, past aggression, social preferences -How much exercise/stimulation they need (especially for large dogs) -Any off-limits behaviors (e.g., scratching, biting, sensitivity to touch) -Whether your pet can be off-leash or needs leash precautions -Communication preferences while you’re away (text/photo frequency, emergency contact flow)
A typical day
I try to match your pet’s regular routine as closely as possible, because I know how comforting familiar rhythms can be when you're away. Whether it's a favorite walking route, a treat puzzle after dinner, or quiet cuddle time on the couch, I make sure your pet feels relaxed, loved, and cared for. I also love going on enriching walks, especially in nature or dog-friendly hiking trails (with your approval), and I always make time for play, belly rubs, or space-whatever your furry one needs most. I'm especially attentive to how pets behave when their humans are away and gently support them through any changes in mood or needs that arise.
Sarah V.
Castro Valley, CA
