House Sitting Portsmouth

Find a loving house sitter to watch over your pets and your home.

End
Search

Over 159
pet parents in Portsmouth have booked house sitting

Portsmouth, Find top rated house sitting

Prices are estimates per night. Pricing may vary based on your search. A booking fee of 11% and taxes will apply.

1 / 1
Sitter Profile Image: Michael D.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Michael D.
Star Sitter
from
$110
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
54 reviews
24 repeat clients
25 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

This was our first time using Rover, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience with Michael. He was incredibly conscientious in our home and followed all of our instructions to a T. Our two dogs can be anxious when left alone and require a detailed routine, and Michael was great about following our protocol exactly, which we really appreciated. He kept in regular contact, sending daily updates and photos, which helped us feel at ease while we were away. On top of that, he went above and beyond by even stripping the bed before leaving. Michael was kind, reliable, and clearly great with dogs—we feel so lucky to have found him and would absolutely book him again!

Profile image
Karen J.
Sitter Profile Image: Karen K.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Karen K.
from
$60
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
12 reviews
2 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Kittery, ME, 03904

This is the first time I’ve used Rover, and it certainly will not be the last. I was so lucky to find Karen, who lives in my town, responded quickly to my first email, and came over to meet my 3-year-old chocolate lab that same afternoon. Within a few minutes, my dog was basking in Karen’s attention and letting me know that she would be happy and comfortable spending time in Karen’s care. Karen made sure my energetic dog got plenty of exercise and sent pictures every day while I was gone. I came home to a happy dog and a peaceful house. My dog and I are both hoping to have a continuing relationship with Karen.

Profile image
Janis W.
Sitter Profile Image: Kristen L.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Kristen L.
Star Sitter
from
$120
per night
4.9 out of 5 stars
58 reviews
15 repeat clients
33 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

Kristen is a very caring and professional person. She took great care of our three pets. Kept us informed and was flexible for whatever was needed. I Highly recommend her.

Profile image
Richard M.
Sitter Profile Image: Melody V.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Melody V.
from
$90
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
49 reviews
11 repeat clients
6 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

This is our second time hiring Melody. She is a true pleasure to engage with, and it feels so good to know we can trust her to stay in our home and take excellent care of our three dogs while we're away. Her rapport with them is wonderful, and she is always extra careful to do what's needed to keep them happy and in their usual routines. She also goes the extra mile--she took out our trash and compost, stripped the sheets from the bed, and even offered to launder them before we got home. When we return, the dogs are happy, and it's easy to tell they've been well cared for. She is our top choice when we need a dog sitter.

Profile image
Dawn B.
Sitter Profile Image: Talia A.
Verified Background Check
Talia A.
from
$95
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
9 reviews
2 repeat clients
15 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

Talia is dependable, communicative, and was great with our fairly difficult dogs! I would have her back in a second.

Profile image
Stephanie D.
Sitter Profile Image: Gavin P.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Gavin P.
Star Sitter
from
$60
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
24 reviews
6 repeat clients
4 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

Gavin took care of my six year old orange tabby for approximately two weeks. This was my first experience with Rover. In fact, when I first registered with Rover and started searching for house sitters with availability, I contacted Gavin in error. (Technology is not my strong suit). Gavin was gracious and kind in responding to my newbie error. When I intentionally reached out to him to see if he was interested in setting up a meet and greet, he responded in a timely manner, as he did with all of our communications. While away, I received daily updates and pictures, detailing their breakfasts together, bonding on the couch during football games, etc. Gavin’s notes were warm, sincere and always included great pictures of his charge. He always responded quickly to my comments/questions from his updates. Gavin was extremely responsible and trustworthy during his time in our home. He tidied up, above and beyond, when his time with my cat wrapped up. I would absolutely recommend him for pet sitting, whether staying in your home or stopping by for feedings/walks/litter box/etc. I hope Gavin will be available to care for my cat in the future.

Profile image
Michelle T.
Sitter Profile Image: Jessica D.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Jessica D.
Star Sitter
from
$85
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
52 reviews
21 repeat clients
6 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

Jessica took great care of our cat, including giving him his inhaler twice a day, and on top of that took great care of our home while we were away. She was also attentive to messages and responded quickly, and sent us updates and pictures every few days.

Profile image
Alex M.
Sitter Profile Image: Anne L.
Verified Background Check
Anne L.
from
$50
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
3 reviews
30 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

About: I love dogs and they seem to love me! I do not have my own dog currently but like to think of all those I watch as my own. I love to get them (and me) out for a walk especially on a beach or nearby trail. I also have a lot of experience caring for senior dogs and can match that energy level as well! If you need references I will be happy to provide them from Wallis, Teddie, Stella, Franklin, Buna, Wally, Tater, Judy, Kaya or Koda. I work from home so would not be away from your dog for more than an hour or two. If your dog likes the car, they can join me on errands/adventures. Or we can stay close to home for walks or snuggles. I care for dogs in their own home to keep them in familiar settings and routines. Important to know if they can be let outside in yard off leash or not, feeding times, what time is typical for wake up.

Sitter Profile Image: Brianna A.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Brianna A.
from
$130
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
4 reviews
10 years of experience
Kittery, ME, 03904

About: Hi there — I’m a dedicated, experienced pet sitter with 10+ years of hands-on experience caring for dogs of all ages, breeds, sizes, and personalities. I truly believe there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach when it comes to our pets—every dog has their own routines, quirks, comfort levels, and needs, and I love taking the time to get to know what makes your pup feel safe, happy, and at home. Whether your dog is high-energy and playful, shy and cautious, older and in need of a slower pace, or has specific behavioral or medical needs, communication is everything. Please share any concerns, routines, triggers, fears, or special requests ahead of time—we’ll work together to make their stay as stress-free and personalized as possible. My home offers a large yard for supervised outdoor time, plenty of love, structure, and attention. I’m also a mom to two amazing kids (ages 5 and 7) who have been raised around animals and are very respectful of pet boundaries, body language, and personal space. For overnight stays, I do recommend bringing your dog’s crate if they’re crate-trained or may need a familiar, secure space for bedtime or decompression. My goal is simple: for your dog to feel safe, understood, and genuinely cared for—while you have peace of mind knowing they’re in loving, experienced hands. I’d love to meet your pup! 🐾 I can do overnights Wednesday Thursday and Fridays! Just reach out to me, schedule updated weekly for other services - overnights stay the same. Thanks! Your pet - your rules! I can play, snuggle, walk, feed, bathe your pet. I can crate your pet if requested. What you say goes!

Sitter Profile Image: Alex B.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Alex B.
from
$85
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
7 reviews
20 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

Alex sat our 2 dogs for 10 days in our home and we feel like our "girls" and our house were really well cared for. She was especially conscientious with our nervous girl Millie, working hard to ease her anxiety and gain her trust. We very much appreciated that Alex was mindful of how we do things, she asked questions when she wasn't sure, she was easy to communicate with, and sent us regular updates. A few unexpected circumstances arose that required her assistance with household tasks and she just rolled with it. I wouldn't hesitate to use her again.

Profile image
Teri M.
Sitter Profile Image: Leah T.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Leah T.
from
$60
per night
15 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

About: I'm an experienced house and pet sitter with 30+ completed sits along the East Coast through TrustedHousesitters and personal referrals. Testimonials here: ........ I've cared for dogs and cats of all ages and temperaments, including senior pets, animals with anxiety or trauma histories, and pets with special needs. I'm comfortable administering medications and following detailed care routines. What you can expect: I learn each animal's routine rather than applying one approach to every pet. I send daily photo updates. I'm naturally tidy and leave homes clean and calm, and I'm glad to look after plants or a garden while I'm there. A few practical notes, so we can both tell early whether it's a good fit: 1. Meet & greet before every first booking. I require a video call or an in-person visit so we can both assess fit. You get to meet me and ask whatever you need to; I get to meet your pet and see the space. Until we've had that conversation, please treat my response as interest rather than a confirmed booking, and keep your other options open. I won't accept a booking before a meet and greet for house sitting. 2. Weekday availability. I see clients on video Monday through Friday, 10a–4p. I'm in the home the whole time, so your pets get frequent short breaks and company throughout the day, but I'm not available for walks or errands during those hours. I am able to support potty breaks during the 12:00-1:00pm hour. 3. Workspace. I need a desk or table at standard height with a supportive chair — not a dining chair, stool, couch, or bed — in a room with a door that closes, plus wifi that reliably holds a video call. I bring my own laptop, monitor, and stand, so I only need the surface and the space. My sessions are confidential, so I can't be interrupted or overheard once I'm on. If you're unsure whether your setup works, a quick video walkthrough settles it in two minutes. 4. Pets I care for. Calm adult dogs and cats. I'm not currently accepting puppies under a year, and I'd want to talk first about dogs with a bite history, special medical needs, or significant reactivity. 5. Service area. Based in the Portsmouth/Eliot area; I generally take bookings within about 25 miles. 6. Notice. At least two days for new clients, and more when possible for longer stays. Tell me about your pet — their routines, quirks, and what makes them feel safest. I'd love to hear it! I work from home with structured hours, which allows me to be available for walks, feeding, medication schedules, playtime, and companionship at certain times of the day, roughly every 3-4 hours. My approach is calm and intentional. I honor your pet’s established rhythm and do my best to create a grounded environment that feels like home. When I’m caring for pets in a client’s home, my top priority is to maintain a sense of safety, routine, and calm. I take time to learn your pet’s unique routines, preferences, and personality so I can offer care that feels familiar. In the home, I’m quiet, clean, and respectful of your space. I aim to leave things just as I found them—or better. I water plants, bring in mail, manage light tidying, and keep things running smoothly so you can return home with ease. I also provide thoughtful updates with photos and check-ins, so you feel connected while away.

Sitter Profile Image: Sheila R.
Verified Background Check
Sheila R.
from
$130
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
47 reviews
8 repeat clients
10 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

About: I love dogs and have a beautiful almost 9 yo 1/2 Lab 1/2 GSP of my own who I fostered and then adopted February 2018; she will gladly keep your dog company and busy playing at my home. I have a large fenced in back yard 2 miles from downtown Portsmouth with plenty of room for the dogs to play and run around in. I am recently retired from Corp Amer, and am home with the dogs so they won’t be left alone. I will only take up to 3 dogs (dogs must be over 2 years of age and show zero signs of any aggression) in at a time for day care and 1 or 2 for boarding so your dog will get plenty of love and one on one attention. My prices may be a little bit higher than other people on this app, but that is because I’m only taking one or two dogs at a time and your dog is getting 1:1 care versus being in a rowdy kennel type environment with several dogs around. You can rest assured knowing I will care for your pets better than most. When I am walking your dog, I will engage with them, give them loads of attention, and will not be looking at/reading my phone. There are toys and tennis balls for them to play with in the yard and they will be let out every 2 hours for potty breaks and play, and can lounge around on the couches if they feel like it too. If they are 100% trained with recall, we go for 2 off leash trail enrichment hikes/ walks per day, otherwise they can be walked on leash around my neighborhood. At bed time, I play soft spa like music so the pups can sleep well and comfortable. I would like to have a meet and greet with all dogs and owners before they board at my home. My daycare rates are for up to 8 hours per day. If you drop your dog off at 8:30am, the dog must be picked up by 4:30pm otherwise you will be charged an additional half day rate. Latest pickup is 6:30pm. After 6:30pm it becomes an overnight. Drop offs must be before 6pm. I cater to dogs that need a little extra support and don’t do well in a chaotic kennel environment, which is why it is more of a “boutique “style service. (1:1) At the most, I might pop out for an hour but the dogs will not be left alone for more than an hour or 2 max. I have a large crate here if your dogs likes to be crated. I am not currently housesitting, only taking dogs in at my home. I do not book out months in advance. I generally only book out 1-2 months in advance. I am now currently only booking through Oct 2026. I let the dogs out every couple of hours for potty breaks and play. I will only take in 2-3 dogs max for daycare at a time and one or two dogs at a time for overnights, as to not overwhelm any of the dogs. This is a relaxed stress free environment for the dogs. I do not take in any dogs that show any signs of aggression.

Sitter Profile Image: Julianne S.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Julianne S.
from
$85
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
48 reviews
17 repeat clients
18 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

Julianne was super responsive and sent a number of photos of our dog! She stayed in our home and we came back to it being cleaner than we left it! Julianne is super kind and we will definitely use her again!

Profile image
Jenny G.
Sitter Profile Image: James W.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
James W.
Star Sitter
from
$110
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
22 reviews
4 repeat clients
25 years of experience
Kittery, ME, 03904

Jim went above and beyond for us when we were in a pinch. Not only did he take great care of our dog but he also cleaned and did dishes for us that we had left in a hurry to head to a wedding. Jim was awesome and I would absolutely recommend him and utilize his services again in a heartbeat!

Profile image
Kay A.
Sitter Profile Image: Paul M.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Paul M.
from
$25
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
27 reviews
5 repeat clients
30 years of experience
New Castle, NH, 03854

Paul was great! He made a commitment to dog sit several weeks before and was willing to come by to meet Charley before. Very communicative during the stay and left our place just like he found it. Excellent sitter! Would recommend.

Profile image
Tyler R.
Sitter Profile Image: Courtney L.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Courtney L.
Star Sitter
from
$60
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
11 reviews
4 repeat clients
15 years of experience
Dover, NH, 03820

Courtney did a wonderful job caring for our two dogs while we were away! We came home to two happy dogs and a house that was clean and tidy. She responded quickly and kept us in the loop the entire time. I would highly recommend, Courtney.

Profile image
Samantha M.
Sitter Profile Image: Allison S.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Allison S.
from
$150
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
17 reviews
25 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

I had a wonderful experience with Ally! Ally stayed in my home and watched my nervous chihuahua for 11 days. She responded perfectly to my dog's needs and he clearly became comfortable with her during the stay. She updated me daily with pictures and videos and was very responsive and flexible. 10/10 for sure!

Profile image
Lindsey H.
Sitter Profile Image: Emerson M.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Emerson M.
from
$65
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
7 reviews
1 repeat client
5 years of experience
South Berwick, ME, 03908

Emerson was FANTASTIC with our pups! We knew Landon was going to want to just sit in her lap (which he did) and Lou hung out happy. She sent pics while we were out to dinner and it was great to know they were in good hands. She treated our boys like they were her own and treated our property well too. Absolutely would call again! Thanks Emerson!!

Profile image
Steve M.
Sitter Profile Image: Caley M.
Verified Background Check
Caley M.
from
$65
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
23 reviews
6 repeat clients
10 years of experience
Hampton, NH, 03842

We contacted Caley for a recent trip and were thankful to find her! She was great at staying in touch, providing updates and send us photos of our three pets! We were so happy to know there was someone keeping an eye on things while we were gone! We came home to very happy animals and Caley left our house in great shape! Thanks again!

Profile image
Maria S.
Sitter Profile Image: Jenna F.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Jenna F.
from
$32
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
4 reviews
15 years of experience
Portsmouth, NH, 03801

About: I raise my own dog and now have a very talkative cat. I have responsibly taken care of acquaintances’ and friends’ pets for years. Each pet has its own unique personality and I just want to help how I can. I am very flexible at the moment. I am doing full-time online school that doesn’t have a meeting time so I can easily rearrange my day as needed to help. I have more flexibility on weekdays than weekends but can do both. I am great at recognizing what a pet needs while also being firm with boundaries and rules for their safety. I know how to care for not only your pet and home, but will respect both.

1 / 1
View more

The median cost per night for house sitting in Portsmouth is $65

Pet parents share their Rover experiences - Portsmouth

1 / 1
5.0 out of 5 stars

Melody was awesome!! She took great care of our 2 boys. One of them can be difficult at introduction and Melody won him over very quickly. Will definitely book again.

Profile image
Adam S.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Julianne was amazing with Hannah My dog isn’t comfortable with just anyone and as soon as my dog met Julianne her tail was wagging I have to say I would use Julianne again she was great and I highly recommend her

Profile image
elaine b.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Amanda and Erin were wonderful sitters for our boy. We received daily photos and updates about walks and play time. Cooper doesn’t spend a whole lot of time by himself usually, so it was an added bonus that Amanda mostly works from home. Will definitely book again!

Profile image
Kate C.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Anne stayed at our house with our senior dog Lincoln for four nights while we were out of town. She was extremely easy to communicate with, went above and beyond (took trash out, watered garden) and left the place squeaky clean. Lincoln was a happy and tired boy after her visit. It was a relief knowing he was comfortable and cared for during our trip. Thanks so much Anne, can’t wait for your next visit.

Profile image
Corinne L.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Kristen was very attentive, kept us updated and sent photos of our pets. Will use her again if we need

Profile image
Donald F.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Karen took such wonderful care of my baby… I’m pretty sure my dog likes her more than me now 🤣 highly recommend!

Profile image
Cherilyn L.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Julianna was a lifesaver for us when we were out of state for 7days. She was wonderful with Bailey and Bentley as they have never been left with anyone previously. The pups absolutely loved Julianna and we appreciate the care and love that she gave them which made us less anxious to leave them. Highly recommend Julianna and we will most definitely be using her services again! It was nice to come home to happy dogs and a clean house as she left everything tidy.

Profile image
Michelle H.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Alexandria was a great sitter for our dog! She kept us informed, sent pictures and updates throughout the stay and was an excellent communicator. Thank you!

Profile image
Jill L.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Jim went above and beyond for us when we were in a pinch. Not only did he take great care of our dog but he also cleaned and did dishes for us that we had left in a hurry to head to a wedding. Jim was awesome and I would absolutely recommend him and utilize his services again in a heartbeat!

Profile image
Kay A.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Will is the best! We use him often for drop in visits and he did an overnight stay at our place for the first time (our first time having anyone dog sit in our home) and I know the pups were happy! He gives updates and asks questions as needed. Left our place spotless. We will book him again soon!

Profile image
Jackie W.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Maria did an awesome job watching my Shih Tzu. She was very communicative, caring, and responsible. I felt great knowing my dog was in such good hands. Definitely recommend for your pup!

Profile image
Sophia D.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Gavin was great! My cats are notoriously shy with new people. Gavin made the effort to find them in their hiding spots to make sure they were okay and then gave them their space to let them warm up on their own terms. I felt very comfortable leaving my cats in Gavin’s care and would love for him to watch them again.

Profile image
Allyssa F.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Talia is dependable, communicative, and was great with our fairly difficult dogs! I would have her back in a second.

Profile image
Stephanie D.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Tati was an amazing sitter with my pup Bailey. She kept me informed each day, sending awesome pictures and went above and beyond when my pup got some GI issues and needed to go on the bland diet. I have already hired her for more future dates, highly recommend!

Profile image
Jennifer Z.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Ally was a perfect sitter! Communicative, kind, and kept our dog comfortable and happy while we were away. 😊

Profile image
blythe a.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Erin was great! We have two dogs and a cat that she took care of. They all warmed up and had a fun time while we were gone. Erin sent daily updates with photos and took great care of the house. Happy to recommend her services and we’ll definitely use her again if the need comes up! We had not used Rover before, happy with the app and service as well.

Profile image
Evan B.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Thank you Chris for taking such good care of our cats and home! We always appreciate the regular updates and coming home to a clean house and happy kitties!

Profile image
Katy C.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Sylvie was fantastic! She was a great communicator, sent photos and videos, and braved some awful New England weather to walk our dog Luna. She played with our cat Dusty, left our house spotless, and even washed her bedding, which we really appreciated. We would definitely ask her to take care of Dusty and Luna again. Highly recommend!

Profile image
Gillian T.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

We booked Kate to house sit for the first time over a 2 day weekend. How lucky we were! Kate responds immediately to texts, arrived on time for a meet & great and instantly became a BFF with our 2 dogs, arrived on time for 2 night stay, very responsible and house was spotless when we came back. She was super flexible and easy to work with. Dogs still miss her as every morning they are still going into the room she slept in to look for her. Very much look forward to booking her again.

Profile image
Elynn T.
House Sitting
5.0 out of 5 stars

Eddy stayed with our German Shepherd over the Thanksgiving holiday and treated her to a wonderful weekend with lots of walking, running, and snuggling. We needed help last minute because she was in heat and didn’t feel comfortable boarding her - Eddy came through and wasn’t fazed by any of the many instructions we had for her, or her puppy craziness. He sent lots of updates and we knew she was in great hands. Absolutely would recommend him!

Profile image
Alice C.
House Sitting
1 / 1
Find pet care near you

Book with peace of mind

  • Screened pet sitters have passed a third-party background check and show verified reviews from other pet parents, like you.
  • Every booking is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes up to $25,000 reimbursement for eligible vet care. Learn more
  • 24/7 support from the Rover team–here to help if you ever need someone to talk to.

Why Choose Rover?

  • Cashless payments

    Book and pay through Rover’s secured platform—no cash or checks required.

  • Reservation protection

    It doesn’t happen often, but if your sitter has to cancel, we’ll work with you to find a new sitter.

  • World-class support

    We’re friendly, knowledgable, and total pet fanatics. You can get in touch with us anytime.

Meet local sitters who will treat your pets like family

  1. 1. Search

    Browse profiles of sitters near you who offer house sitting
  2. 2. Meet In Person

    Schedule a free in-person Meet & Greet to find the perfect fit
  3. 3. Book & Pay

    It's that easy! All payments are processed through Rover's secured platform

Popular requests for house sitting - Portsmouth

Select a filter and find qualifying sitters offering house sitting.

Sitters in Portsmouth average 4
repeat house sitting clients

FAQs for House Sitting - Portsmouth

Frequently asked questions about Rover

The average cost for House Sitting in Portsmouth on Rover is $71.25 per night (as of August 2026). However, all sitters set their own rates based on experience, location, and availability.

Rover makes budgeting the cost of House Sitting easy. As long as your dates and pet profiles are correct, the price you see before you book is the same price you pay for House Sitting. For more information on service fees, click here .

As of August 2026, there are 820 sitters on Rover offering House Sitting across Portsmouth. Enter your ZIP code to see which available sitters are closest to your home.

Beyond belly rubs and feeding schedules, a house sitter’s presence may provide an additional layer of security for your home. However, you will need to arrange overnight stays and other household tasks with your sitter when reaching out to them. Not all sitters offer the same services. Common household tasks you can negotiate include:

  • Mail & deliveries: Collecting letters and packages so they don't pile up.
  • Plant care: Keeping your indoor or outdoor garden hydrated.
  • Trash & recycling: Taking trash cans to the curb on scheduled pickup days.
  • Home security: Sitters can stay overnight to keep your home occupied.

The best way to align on expectations is during your free Meet & Greet. Use this time to provide a "home cheat sheet" that includes your preferred Portsmouth walking routes, the location of your favorite pet store, and any specific quirks about your home’s security or appliances.

It’s helpful to think of house sitting as a "home base" service. Most sitters in Portsmouth maintain their normal daily routines, like running errands or heading to the office, meaning your pet should be comfortable being alone for a few hours at a time. If your pet needs a little extra company, here is how to find the perfect match:

  • Look for "WFH" sitters: Many sitters mention "Work from Home" on their profile to indicate they’ll be present for the majority of the day.
  • Update your pet’s profile: Write down how long your pet can comfortably be left alone. This helps sitters quickly determine if their schedule aligns with your needs.
  • Communicate 24/7 needs: Standard house sitting usually doesn't include constant supervision. If your pet requires round-the-clock care, be sure to discuss this upfront.

Tip: Use the Meet & Greet to confirm a sitter's typical "away" windows. Transparency ensures your pet stays happy and your sitter can plan their day effectively!

Key handling is entirely up to you and your sitter to agree on during the Meet & Greet or in the Rover app. Most pet parents in Portsmouth choose to hand over a spare key or digital fob in person, while others arrange a lockbox or unique access code. Don't forget to discuss key returns as well!

The Rover Guarantee is Rover’s commitment to your peace of mind every time you book. It includes 24/7 customer support, sitter access to advice from qualified veterinary professionals for diagnostic issues, and a reimbursement program for eligible veterinary care in the rare event something goes wrong.

All bookings are backed by the Rover Guarantee , which provides up to $25,000 in eligible veterinary care reimbursement.

Every sitter on Rover is required to pass a background check before listing their services. This process confirms their identity and indicates they are not on the Department of Justice’s National Sex Offender Public Website or have any disqualifying offenses.

Beyond ID checks, you can review each sitter's star rating, read verified reviews from other pet parents, and see how many repeat clients they have. Every booking is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes up to $25,000 in eligible veterinary care. For more details, visit Rover's Trust & Safety page .

If a health concern arises during a stay, your sitter is instructed to contact you and our Trust & Safety team immediately and, if needed, take your pet to the closest veterinarian. Through our Trust & Safety support team, sitters can ask for diagnostic advice from a qualified veterinary professional if your pet is showing signs of possible illness.

For extra peace of mind, you can also prepare an authorization form for your regular vet. An authorization form outlines your preferred method of care and allows your sitter to bring your pet into their regular clinic.

Every qualified booking made on Rover is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes reimbursement for eligible emergency vet care.

A Meet & Greet is a short introductory meeting between you, your pet, and a sitter. It can take place in person or virtually, although we recommend in-person so that your pet can get to know your sitter or the new environment. During the Meet & Greet, you will have a chance to walk through your pet's routine, medical needs, and unique quirks. Take the time to ask your sitter questions about their skills and expertise, and make sure the fit feels right for everyone. Most pet parents and sitters on Rover welcome Meet & Greets because the process can give confidence and peace of mind for service experiences, especially for longer stays or first-time bookings.

Sitters on Rover set their own cancellation policy, which you can find on their profile under their calendar availability.

Cancelling before a booking begins and before the sitter's cutoff time qualifies you for a full refund. Same-day cancellations for walks, day care, and drop-ins follow the full refund policy. Otherwise, for dog boarding and house sitting, you will receive a 50% refund for the first seven days of the booking and a 100% refund for the remaining days when you cancel the same day a booking should begin.

If your sitter needs to cancel within seven days of the booking's start date, then our reservation protection will kick in. This means our support team works with you to find a replacement sitter.

Yes, you can find sitters who have experience with handling special pet needs in Portsmouth. On Rover:

  • 95% of sitters can help with special care needs
  • 98% can help with giving oral medications or injections
  • 100% can help with daily exercise

You can also find pet sitters on Rover who accept only one pet at a time, which is ideal for anxious puppies, kittens, or senior pets who move at a gentler pace. Some sitters will also list availability for 24/7 care, also known as constant care, in their profiles.

Use the search filters to narrow down sitters whose specific experience or environment meets your pet's needs. When reaching out to your sitter, outline your pet's care routine and use the Meet & Greet to walk your sitter through your expectations.

Connect anywhere with the Rover app

Download on the App Store BadgeGet it on Google Play Badge