Stephen W.
Columbia Heights, DC
Vibes + VIP pet care 🐶 ✨
Pet care experience
Stephen here, your pup's soon to be bestie! After a brief hiatus from Rover, I’m back in action and once again accepting new clients for a limited time before I’m back to only doing regulars! 🐾 💥 Since starting my Rover journey in 2017, I've had the pleasure of being the go-to for over 100+ clients in the DC area. Many of my clients have turned friends over the years and find themselves chuckling at my 'pupdates' and appreciate the high level of care I provide their doggo. From highly energetic (yet precious) puppies to wise seniors needing extra TLC and medication, I’ve nearly seen it all. I approach complex care instructions with patience and keep safety top of mind. I also am the proud dad of Rio, a 6-year-old terrier mix who's the life of every 'paw-ty' he attends. For boarding requests, I ask that your dog is comfortable with other dogs. For house sitting requests, I can easily accommodate Rio either joining for the fun or staying at home if you prefer another dog doesn't tag along.
Reviews
Stephen was amazing! He sent regular updates about my dog Moose, and Moose came home happy and tired. Stephen was super communicative and accommodating with my flight schedule as well. Moose had a great time with Rio and I would definitely book again!
Stephen was amazing! You can tell how much he cares about dogs. I’d definitely hire him again.
This was I believe my fifth time leaving Oscar with Stephen. I had always had positive experiences, but this was deeply upsetting and I feel obliged to share as things have gone wildly downhill. I left Oscar on Wednesday night and received one picture Thursday morning. I was due to pick up Oscar Monday afternoon/evening after my flight landed at 3:30pm. I had not heard from Stephen since Thursday but texted him before my flight (1:30) to confirm pickup. Called and texted multiple times after I got home. By 7, I still hadn't gotten any responses and I was panicked. His phone was going to voicemail, clearly dead. Having zero way to communicate with him, I drove to the apartment and followed someone inside to get to his door. Knocking on three occasions finally woke him up - things seemed very off. What would have happened if I didn't sneak into the building? Oscar clearly was hungry, thirsty and needed to go outside. He knew I was scheduled to pick up that night - how did this happen? He tried to send me away with half of Oscar's belongings. I expected a sincere apology note after he recharged his phone and saw all of my missed calls and concerned messages, but nothing. I still can't believe it.
This was probably my tenth time using Stephen. Super reliable. He takes great care of my pup!
About Stephen W.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
When hosting, my apartment is dog proof and can be 100% puppy proofed, houseplants in reach aren’t dangerous (but can easily be put up for sneaky puppies!). When I’m in your home, we can discuss any requests you may have to ensure I’m respecting your space and animal’s environment. When house sitting, I'm happy to lend an extra hands with plant maintenance (I'm quite the plant dad myself) and general house maintenance needs. (And help prevent those pesky package thieves!)
Home
Information Stephen W. would like to know about your pet
Quick heads-up! While an enthusiastic, 'OMG STEPHEN IS BACK!' bark when I arrive home is music to my ears, excessive anxiety when I step out isn't going to work. If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, I have other friends on Rover I can recommend if your dog is needing a different vibe. (Or would be willing to house sit as an alternative).
A typical day
Expect your dog to be exhausted when they return home! I am a huge fan of long walks, exploring dog parks, and even hiking on occasion/ability of the dog. Whether it's a leisurely strut through the neighborhood or catering to potty-training for your new puppy, I'm your guy!
Services
Stephen can host
Stephen can watch in your home
Availability
My schedule can be flexible to accommodate your dog's needs. Occasionally, I might have some evening plans or busier days with work meetings but can easily ensure your dog isn't alone for more than 6 hours during stays. Professionally, I work in tech and primarily work from home, making it very easy to accommodate boarding and house sitting requests. In the event I have an obligation that would require me to be away for a longer period of time, I will clear it with you beforehand or arrange for a back up helper to step in.
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About Stephen W.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
When hosting, my apartment is dog proof and can be 100% puppy proofed, houseplants in reach aren’t dangerous (but can easily be put up for sneaky puppies!). When I’m in your home, we can discuss any requests you may have to ensure I’m respecting your space and animal’s environment. When house sitting, I'm happy to lend an extra hands with plant maintenance (I'm quite the plant dad myself) and general house maintenance needs. (And help prevent those pesky package thieves!)
Home
Information Stephen W. would like to know about your pet
Quick heads-up! While an enthusiastic, 'OMG STEPHEN IS BACK!' bark when I arrive home is music to my ears, excessive anxiety when I step out isn't going to work. If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, I have other friends on Rover I can recommend if your dog is needing a different vibe. (Or would be willing to house sit as an alternative).
A typical day
Expect your dog to be exhausted when they return home! I am a huge fan of long walks, exploring dog parks, and even hiking on occasion/ability of the dog. Whether it's a leisurely strut through the neighborhood or catering to potty-training for your new puppy, I'm your guy!
Location
Washington, DC
Pets
Stephen W.
Columbia Heights, DC