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Tara R.

Alexandria, VA

5.0 out of 5 stars
5 reviews
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Services

These prices are for 1 dog.

Prices may vary based on your selections. A booking fee of 11% will apply.

Tara can care for

Cats
0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs

Availability

Spending time with animals is already part of my life. I am mom to a senior cat and dog. I like walks, quiet company, funny little personalities, and helping dogs feel relaxed and cared for while their people are away.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
House Sitting Cancellation Policy:

About Tara R.

Communication

1 repeat pet parent
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

35 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
First aid/CPR
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

Dogs are most comfortable when their usual routines stay familiar, so I follow their normal rhythm as closely as possible. Vibe matching is a huge part of my service! Some dogs want playtime and adventure, some want quiet company and a calm presence, and some mostly want treats, reassurance, and someone patient to hang out with. I pay attention to their personality and energy so they feel relaxed, understood, and cared for while you’re away.

Information Tara R. would like to know about your pet

Please share any special needs, fears, allergies, medications, or unique behaviors (like separation anxiety or reactivity). I’m especially comfortable with seniors, shy pets, and cats too. The more details, the better I can keep your pet happy and safe!

A typical day

I love keeping your dogs active and happy. We'll go on fun walks to explore new smells, play games like fetch or tug, use puzzle toys for mental fun, and enjoy plenty of cuddles and rest time. Every day is tailored to your dog's energy and personality.

Location

Alexandria, VA

Tara R.'s Neighborhood

Pets

Calm Dependable Dog Nanny

Pet care experience

ALX local dog and cat Mom! I’m an experienced, bonded & insured pet sitter/walker who specializes in shy pets, seniors, medication, and keeping routines rock solid. I provide walks, feeding, playtime, companionship, and daily photo updates so you never miss a moment. My experience: I’ve cared for many dogs and cats over the years, from energetic pups who need adventure walks to anxious or senior pets who just want calm company and treats. As mom to my own senior cat and dog, I’ve handled everything from daily meds and special diets to helping nervous dogs warm up and feel safe. Services & what to expect: - 30–60 minute walks with potty breaks and play - In home dropins (feeding, fresh water, cuddles, litter boxes) - Overnight stays with housesitting - Medication administration (pills, topicals, etc.) - Following your exact schedule and house rules I work part-time from home in Alexandria, so I have very flexible availability.. mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends. I can give your pets the focused, one on one time they deserve. Dogs and cats feel safest when everything stays familiar. I match their energy and personality perfectly..some days it’s zoomies and fetch, other days it’s quiet couch time and reassurance. My goal is simple: your pet feels loved, relaxed, and cared for while you’re away. Photo updates included every visit. Local references available! I am bonded, insured, and my business is registered in the City of Alexandria. Your trust is important to me!

Cat care experience

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Cat Mom <3

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

Reviews

Sharon P.
House Sitting • Jul 26, 2026
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Tara was fantastic. She was patient with my dog who is nervous around new people, and they were great friends within a couple days. She was very communicative, which reassured me that things were going well and everyone was happy and healthy. Highly recommend!

John K.
Drop-In Visits • Jul 10, 2026
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Tara was great! Super communicative and professional, and clearly the pups loved her. Thanks again!

Chiara
May 17, 2026

Tara is a considerate, responsible, and caring pet sitter. She does an especially wonderful job caring for my cat, making sure she is fed on schedule, gets plenty of playtime, and receives lots of affection and pets. Tara is reliable, communicative, and highly conscientious, and I would happily recommend her to anyone looking for a loving and trustworthy pet caregiver!

Anna M.
May 15, 2026

Tara is a wonderful, attentive and professional dog sitter and walker. She takes such good care of our dog, providing personalized attention, playing with him, walking him, making sure he eats, and giving him lots of love. She always puts safety first, is always on time, and also provides amazing pictures of our dog throughout her visits. We definitely recommend Tara!

About Tara R.

Communication

1 repeat pet parent
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

35 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
First aid/CPR
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

Dogs are most comfortable when their usual routines stay familiar, so I follow their normal rhythm as closely as possible. Vibe matching is a huge part of my service! Some dogs want playtime and adventure, some want quiet company and a calm presence, and some mostly want treats, reassurance, and someone patient to hang out with. I pay attention to their personality and energy so they feel relaxed, understood, and cared for while you’re away.

Information Tara R. would like to know about your pet

Please share any special needs, fears, allergies, medications, or unique behaviors (like separation anxiety or reactivity). I’m especially comfortable with seniors, shy pets, and cats too. The more details, the better I can keep your pet happy and safe!

A typical day

I love keeping your dogs active and happy. We'll go on fun walks to explore new smells, play games like fetch or tug, use puzzle toys for mental fun, and enjoy plenty of cuddles and rest time. Every day is tailored to your dog's energy and personality.

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.
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Verified Enhanced Background Check
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Verified Enhanced Background Check

Tara R.

Alexandria, VA

5.0 out of 5 stars
5 reviews