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Stephen & Mike S.

Palm Springs, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
146 reviews
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Our client's reviews say everything

Pet care experience

Watching and caring for dogs is PRIORITY #1. It's not just a gig or side hustle for us and we take it very seriously. That's why we are consistently ranked at the top of all ROVER dog sitters in the greater Palm Springs area. We encourage you to read our reviews because we know it’s difficult to randomly select a quality sitter from a list, and even riskier to choose one based on price alone. Between our reviews and gallery of pictures, we hope you are able to get an idea of the variety of dogs we've had in our care, along with all the space in the yard and home that your dog will have to enjoy a great stay with plenty of room to run and play. We encourage you to read the reviews our clients have left us because we know it’s difficult to randomly select a quality sitter from a list, and even riskier to choose one based on price alone. Between our reviews and gallery of pictures, we hope you are able to get an idea of the variety of dogs we've had in our care, along with all the space in the yard and home that your dog will have to enjoy a great stay with plenty of room to run and play. With our large yard and house, your dog will get have plenty of room for playtime and exercise. Outside, all pets are supervised, whether just roaming, playing or doing their business. Inside, your pet will get a lot of personal attention and affection by two loving and caring dog sitters. Both inside and out. We've had all types of dogs of all ages and sizes for over 40 years. Now that I’m retired, I devote my time to caring for pets alongside, and with my adult son (Mike) who also truly loves dogs. He is a software developer, who fortunately works remotely from our professional home office and is always here with the dogs. So rather than just having one person to watch multiple dogs, your pet will have the benefit of at least 2 people home each day to watch, care and play with your dog. We are both extremely patient, caring, gentle, and will treat your dog or pup with the same love & dedication as if they were our own. NOT YOUR TYPICAL DOG SITTERS - We are not a boarding kennel that just provides a place for your dog to sleep and be fed. We believe a key role in being an exceptional dog sitter / boarder is to actually spend individual time with your dog by giving them personal attention and affection. Along with playing with them and mentally stimulating them to keep them happy. - Although we could easily handle many more dogs, we limit care to 2 to 3 dogs maximum so we can better watch and care for your dog - With fewer dogs, we are able give your pet will get more individual attention, exceptional care and constant supervision. - Stephen, Mike or both will ALWAYS be at the house with the dogs. So your pet will never be left home alone or unattended. - We both love dogs and are affectionate and caring dog people MEET & GREET We always welcome, encourage and recommend meet and greets... but we realize it's not always possibly, especially for visitors coming to the Palm Springs area. When a meet and greet isn't possible, we'd still like speak over the phone to discuss your pet to learn as much as we can. These calls give us the opportunity to discuss your pet, answer any questions or address concerns so we can make your pet's stay as enjoyable as possible.

Reviews

Ashley K.
Doggy Day Care • Apr 20, 2024
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We booked with Stephen & Mike somewhat last minute but we feel so blessed. I was impressed with their bio and it felt like they aligned with how we respect and treat dogs (which is like true family members). When we finally got to Palm Springs and went to drop them off the first day, it was just so pleasant. The yard is clean, the pool is accessible to the dogs, and they wholeheartedly welcome them into their home. We chatted with Mike for about 20 minutes before my husband and I left for Joshua Tree NP. They are such lovely people! Mike sent us so many pictures it was clear our pup-kids were more than happy. By the second day, they ran into the house at full speed. We are ever so grateful for their services and are disappointed that we dont live in the area to use them again. We will always recommend though.

Ashleigh F.
Doggy Day Care • Mar 13, 2024
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Mike was wonderful! Gave Disco so much attention and care. Provided updates throughout the day with how Disco was doing. We would gladly let Disco stay with Mike anytime we are in the desert!

Ron H.
Dog Boarding • Mar 12, 2024
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Great job taking care of my labradoodle. House was very clean and well maintained. I would highly recommend them for dog care.

Justin G.
Dog Boarding • Feb 13, 2024
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Our boy loves staying with Stephen and Mike and it’s clear with how happy and comfortable he appears with all the photo updates we get during his stay! Would always recommend!

About Stephen & Mike S.

Communication

39 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

41 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

OUR HOME & YARD Although your dog might not care, we do care about keeping the house and yard clean, and do clean the yard at least 3x daily (so your dog doesn't come home smelling like it's been rolling around in a pasture ;) Our yard is large and secure with plenty of space for the dogs to roam, run, explore and play. Our house is also large and very dog friendly. And your pet will have free roam in the house and will be allowed on the bed or furniture if you allow them to at home. We do not have crates at home, but if your dog needs or is more comfortable, you are welcome to bring it, and we will be happy to set it up during your dogs stay... generally right next the bed (for over night stays), or in the great room area, so your dog can still feel comfortable knowing they are not being left alone. SAFETY WHILE PLAYING When it comes to playing with other dogs, we are very careful to monitor that no dog is too aggressive or plays too rough with your dog. Fun puppy play is normal and expected with some dogs, but we take their safety very seriously and will keep a constant eye on making sure all dogs play friendly with one another. In the event we need to separate dogs, we have a space dividers that can keep dogs separated, but yet still have plenty of room to play, rest and roam... and still get attention from either myself or Mike. EARNING YOUR TRUST Finally, we encourage you to read some of the many reviews our clients have left us. We pride ourselves on earning the glowing reviews, and we will work hard caring for your pet(s) to earn a positive review from you. If you are in the area, we welcome and Meet & Greets for you and your dog to to meet us and to see the house, yard and what we can offer your pet while in our care. It will also give us the opportunity to any special needs or concern, so that we can make your dog's stay as fun a possible.

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has no pets
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 0-2 hours

Information Stephen & Mike S. would like to know about your pet

The MOST IMPORTANT things for us to know and understand is your dog's temperament. While we love most dogs and breeds, unfortunately we are unable to care for aggressive natured breeds, dogs with aggressive tendencies or Alpha dogs that have a natural instinct and desire to dominate the pack. The more you can share about your dogs habits, likes and dislikes, the better we can care for your dog(s). if your pet has any aggression issues, separation anxiety, medication, dietary restrictions, or special needs it's important to share that with us. It's also helpful to understand basic things like knowing if your dog likes to chew, is a runner, is timid, prefers to be the only dog in the house, or has uncommon traits... basically the more you can share about your dog, the more accommodating and understanding we can be to keep your dog comfortable and relaxed.

A typical day

We like to encourage the dogs to play as much as possible to keep them active and foster a playful spirit. There are a lot balls and dog toys for the dogs to enjoy. We like to toss tennis balls for them to fetch to keep them active. We will also play 'tug-of-war' with dogs who enjoy that type of play. At least every 1-2 hours, we stay outside with them so they can "do their business". We'll also encourage them to play and get some exercise. But we are mindful of the heat and to make sure they are not outside too long when temps are high. But we will spend more time with them outside in the early mornings and after sunset when the temp is easier on the dogs. But If they desire, they can enjoy the doggy splash pool to cool off during the day. After playing with the toys and other dogs, they will each have their own clean dog bed to relax, nap and chill as they desire. When inside (which is most of the time because of the heat), we keep the home air conditioned at an average of 74 degrees to make sure they are kept comfortable. If your dog is older or just doesn’t want to play much, they generally lay near one of us. Often, many the dogs will just lay near, or at the feet of our son (Mike) while he's in the office working. Other dogs, including lap dogs and older dogs will lay near me in the great room area. In any case they won’t be alone, even while resting. Meal times are generally about 7am to 8am and 4pm to 5pm, unless your dog has different schedule. All dogs are fed separately from one another and we’ll only feed them the food and treats you provide, so we don't upset their digestive system. When it comes to sleeping for overnight stays/boarding, we’ll make sure the dogs are sleeping in the one of the bedrooms next to the bed so they’ll feel safe and secure. If they have kennel or crate they are used to, it is helpful to bring so they can sleep better at night. We’ll make sure they have their crate/kennel or doggie bed next to one of our beds. For some dogs who only feel secure sleeping on the bed with somebody, we can accommodate that as well (depending on the dog). But in general, they are welcome to sleep anywhere they feel safe and most comfortable. Most dogs let us know when they’re up and ready to go outside for their morning break. So whether it’s 6am, 7am or 8am, we tend to get up when they do so we can take them outside for their first morning potty break. Our own personal dog (a 11+ year old German Shepard named “Rufus”) is extremely friendly and generally just lays around all day. He's not an active dog, and just lays around. It's not aggressive, he's just old and not too playful. He may play with other dogs for a few moments, but will wonder off on his own since he's older and can’t keep up with the younger dogs, but he is extremely friendly and gets along great with other dogs and is is not aggressive in any way.

Services

Boarding
in the sitter's home
$120per night
Doggy Day Care
in the sitter's home
$85per day

Stephen & Mike can host

0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
Non-neutered males accepted, spayed females only
No females in heat
Crate-trained dogs only

Availability

ACCOMMODATING YOUR SCHEDULE We'll always do our best to accommodate last minute or same day bookings. To make things easier on you, we'll also do our best to be flexible on hours, from early morning drop offs to late night pickups. OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES We’ll take your dog outside (supervised) at least every 1-2 hours, or more frequently if they want or need. When outside, there are also two large covered patio areas that provide ample shade from the sun. We also have a small shallow kiddy/doggie pool for the dogs to splash and cool off, or a regular large pool if your pooch is an experienced swimmer. In any scenario, your dog will always be supervised when they are outside. We'll give them ample outdoor play time to play, run, roam and explore in the large yard we have. They will always get extra outdoor playtime in the early mornings and evenings when it is cooler, because we are sensitive to the desert heat and don't want to expose your dog to uncomfortable play when it's too hot outside. When it’s too hot to stay and play outdoors - we keep them active and entertained indoors playing tug-of-war, have them fetch some balls, or entice them to play with their favorite toys. INSIDE CARE & ATTENTION When inside, your pet will get lots of affection and supervision. Because of our open floorpan, your dog will generally always be within the line of sight of one of us. And when they want to nap or relax, they will have their choice of one of the many clean dog beds (cleaned weekly) that we have throughout the house. Or they can enjoy the clean cool tile floors or get extra comfortable by chilling on the covered sofa. Essentially, they will get free roam of the house to allow them to be comfortable wherever they desire. MEALS & TREATS We will adhere to your dog’s regular diet with the food and treats you provide, so as not to upset their digestive system. We will feed according to your schedule and instructions.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Calendar last updated 7 days ago
Stephen & Mike can host up to 2 dogs per day
Doggy Day Care Cancellation Policy:

About Stephen & Mike S.

Communication

39 repeat pet parents
100% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

41 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

OUR HOME & YARD Although your dog might not care, we do care about keeping the house and yard clean, and do clean the yard at least 3x daily (so your dog doesn't come home smelling like it's been rolling around in a pasture ;) Our yard is large and secure with plenty of space for the dogs to roam, run, explore and play. Our house is also large and very dog friendly. And your pet will have free roam in the house and will be allowed on the bed or furniture if you allow them to at home. We do not have crates at home, but if your dog needs or is more comfortable, you are welcome to bring it, and we will be happy to set it up during your dogs stay... generally right next the bed (for over night stays), or in the great room area, so your dog can still feel comfortable knowing they are not being left alone. SAFETY WHILE PLAYING When it comes to playing with other dogs, we are very careful to monitor that no dog is too aggressive or plays too rough with your dog. Fun puppy play is normal and expected with some dogs, but we take their safety very seriously and will keep a constant eye on making sure all dogs play friendly with one another. In the event we need to separate dogs, we have a space dividers that can keep dogs separated, but yet still have plenty of room to play, rest and roam... and still get attention from either myself or Mike. EARNING YOUR TRUST Finally, we encourage you to read some of the many reviews our clients have left us. We pride ourselves on earning the glowing reviews, and we will work hard caring for your pet(s) to earn a positive review from you. If you are in the area, we welcome and Meet & Greets for you and your dog to to meet us and to see the house, yard and what we can offer your pet while in our care. It will also give us the opportunity to any special needs or concern, so that we can make your dog's stay as fun a possible.

Home

Lives in a house
Has a fenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has no pets
No children present
Dogs allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 0-2 hours

Information Stephen & Mike S. would like to know about your pet

The MOST IMPORTANT things for us to know and understand is your dog's temperament. While we love most dogs and breeds, unfortunately we are unable to care for aggressive natured breeds, dogs with aggressive tendencies or Alpha dogs that have a natural instinct and desire to dominate the pack. The more you can share about your dogs habits, likes and dislikes, the better we can care for your dog(s). if your pet has any aggression issues, separation anxiety, medication, dietary restrictions, or special needs it's important to share that with us. It's also helpful to understand basic things like knowing if your dog likes to chew, is a runner, is timid, prefers to be the only dog in the house, or has uncommon traits... basically the more you can share about your dog, the more accommodating and understanding we can be to keep your dog comfortable and relaxed.

A typical day

We like to encourage the dogs to play as much as possible to keep them active and foster a playful spirit. There are a lot balls and dog toys for the dogs to enjoy. We like to toss tennis balls for them to fetch to keep them active. We will also play 'tug-of-war' with dogs who enjoy that type of play. At least every 1-2 hours, we stay outside with them so they can "do their business". We'll also encourage them to play and get some exercise. But we are mindful of the heat and to make sure they are not outside too long when temps are high. But we will spend more time with them outside in the early mornings and after sunset when the temp is easier on the dogs. But If they desire, they can enjoy the doggy splash pool to cool off during the day. After playing with the toys and other dogs, they will each have their own clean dog bed to relax, nap and chill as they desire. When inside (which is most of the time because of the heat), we keep the home air conditioned at an average of 74 degrees to make sure they are kept comfortable. If your dog is older or just doesn’t want to play much, they generally lay near one of us. Often, many the dogs will just lay near, or at the feet of our son (Mike) while he's in the office working. Other dogs, including lap dogs and older dogs will lay near me in the great room area. In any case they won’t be alone, even while resting. Meal times are generally about 7am to 8am and 4pm to 5pm, unless your dog has different schedule. All dogs are fed separately from one another and we’ll only feed them the food and treats you provide, so we don't upset their digestive system. When it comes to sleeping for overnight stays/boarding, we’ll make sure the dogs are sleeping in the one of the bedrooms next to the bed so they’ll feel safe and secure. If they have kennel or crate they are used to, it is helpful to bring so they can sleep better at night. We’ll make sure they have their crate/kennel or doggie bed next to one of our beds. For some dogs who only feel secure sleeping on the bed with somebody, we can accommodate that as well (depending on the dog). But in general, they are welcome to sleep anywhere they feel safe and most comfortable. Most dogs let us know when they’re up and ready to go outside for their morning break. So whether it’s 6am, 7am or 8am, we tend to get up when they do so we can take them outside for their first morning potty break. Our own personal dog (a 11+ year old German Shepard named “Rufus”) is extremely friendly and generally just lays around all day. He's not an active dog, and just lays around. It's not aggressive, he's just old and not too playful. He may play with other dogs for a few moments, but will wonder off on his own since he's older and can’t keep up with the younger dogs, but he is extremely friendly and gets along great with other dogs and is is not aggressive in any way.

Location

Palm Springs, CA

Stephen & Mike S.'s Neighborhood
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Stephen & Mike S.

Palm Springs, CA

5.0 out of 5 stars
146 reviews