House Sitting Runnells

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Runnells, 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.

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Sitter Profile Image: Justus R.
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Justus R.
from
$60
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
12 reviews
1 repeat client
12 years of experience
Carlisle, IA, 50047

Justus did an AMAZING job of watching my 1year old German Shepherd, Violet! She was there for 3 days and she sent tons of photos and updates so I didn't have to worry. She played with her a lot, left my house spotless and was respectful of everything there. I know Violet will love having her back next time I have to go out of town with her. Lastly, if she can handle my puppy and her energy for 3 days.. she can handle anything!

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Skip D.
Sitter Profile Image: Allison G.
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Allison G.
Star Sitter
from
$58
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
125 reviews
36 repeat clients
36 years of experience
Des Moines, IA, 50309

Allison was great!! We have an anxious large Retriever and we came home to a happy content boy! The house was cleaner then when we left and we got so many cute photos and updates. Very happy with Allison and highly recommend!

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Gwyneth C.
Sitter Profile Image: Molly B.
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Molly B.
Star Sitter
from
$56
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
183 reviews
78 repeat clients
9 years of experience
Greater South Side, Des Moines, IA, 50315

This was my first time with Molly watching the boys. She was awesome! She sent so many pictures and videos which was great, I could tell that they were comfortable with her. She even let them sleep with her and hog the bed! I had several issues with my flights and she was more than willing to be on standby if I didn’t make it home on time. I’ll definitely use Molly again in the future 🌟

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Erica M.
Sitter Profile Image: Amber B.
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Amber B.
from
$35
per night
12 years of experience
Des Moines, IA, 50317

About: What sets me apart is a lifetime of animal experience combined with 12 years of professional pet care. From dogs and cats to horses, ferrets, rabbits, chickens, and fish, I understand that every animal has unique needs. Weather it's administering medications, caring for senior pets with a gentle touch, or simply providing companionship and love, I treat every pet as if they were my own so you can travel with confidence and peace of mind. As someone who has spent a lifetime around animals, pet care is already part of my everyday life. I understand how important routine is for animals and strive to maintain their normal schedule so they feel safe, comfortable, and lived while their family is away. At this time I am unable to bring your pet home with me. But I happy to stay with them in there home. I am a responsible adult with great love for animals.

Sitter Profile Image: Angie M.
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Angie M.
from
$45
per night
4.9 out of 5 stars
150 reviews
25 repeat clients
14 years of experience
Bondurant, IA, 50035

This is the 3rd time we book Angie and she has been so great every single time. We have 3 pups and one of them was just diagnosed with diabetes and Angie did so good giving Zoey her insulin shot. We will definitely book with her for future travel. 😃

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Roxanne F.
Sitter Profile Image: Abby D.
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Abby D.
Star Sitter
from
$35
per night
4.9 out of 5 stars
17 reviews
5 repeat clients
10 years of experience
Altoona, IA, 50009

Abby was so great with both of our dogs. She took several pictures of the dogs and sent it to us while we were away. At the end of her stay she even washed the guest room sheets and comforter so it was clean for our next guests. We will certainly be using her in the future!

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Amanda R.
Sitter Profile Image: Julia P.
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Julia P.
from
$50
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
2 reviews
1 repeat client
15 years of experience
Des Moines, IA, 50317

Overall, it was a great fit for my self and all of the animals.

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Melissa B.
Sitter Profile Image: Jessica D.
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Jessica D.
from
$30
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
121 reviews
44 repeat clients
10 years of experience
Des Moines, IA, 50322

Jessica was absolutely fantastic while caring for our dog, Bella, during our trip to New York City. From the moment we met her, it was obvious how much she genuinely loves animals, and that care and compassion showed throughout Bella's entire stay. We received updates that gave us peace of mind, and it was clear Bella was happy, comfortable, and well cared for. What really impressed us was the extra level of care Jessica provided around our home. Not only did she leave everything spotless, but I honestly think the house was cleaner than when we left. She even started the laundry for the bedsheets she used before leaving—something we never expected and certainly didn't ask her to do. Those thoughtful touches speak volumes about her character and professionalism. We would not hesitate to book Jessica again and highly recommend her to anyone looking for someone trustworthy, responsible, and genuinely caring to look after their pets. Bella was in excellent hands!

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Ryan B.
Sitter Profile Image: Mackenzie W.
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Mackenzie W.
Star Sitter
from
$75
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
134 reviews
33 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Union Park, Des Moines, IA, 50313

We are really happy with the care provided! Mackenzie was very attentive, sent multiple pictures of our boys, and even made us aware of some water in our basement. We will definitely be using her again!

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Hannah O.
Sitter Profile Image: Travis S.
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Travis S.
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
6 reviews
1 repeat client
25 years of experience
Des Moines, IA, 50314

Travis was exceptionally quick to respond and very attentive to my three dogs. Two of my dogs can be hyper and he never once seemed put off by their behaviors. I got photo updates from him without having to ask and he was on time to get to my house before we left out of state. If we needed a sitter again, we’d definitely book with Travis.

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Kyly N.
Sitter Profile Image: Donna G.
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Donna G.
from
$45
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
6 reviews
30 years of experience
Altoona, IA, 50009

Donna was nice and very easy to work with. She was reliable and on time for both the initial meeting and for the stay so we could leave on time. She did a great job and provided some good updates and pictures of the dogs. Thanks for taking good care of them!

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Mike W.
Sitter Profile Image: Megan C.
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Megan C.
from
$30
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
7 reviews
15 years of experience
West Des Moines, IA, 50265

Megan was fantastic! She was prompt and responsive. She provided pictures of our pups and gave them all the love! Would highly recommend Megan.

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Keaton S.
Sitter Profile Image: Stacey W.
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Stacey W.
from
$70
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
26 reviews
8 repeat clients
15 years of experience
Sherman Hill, Des Moines, IA, 50309

Stacey takes great care of our dogs. Whether it’s a drop-in visit or house sitting, I never have to worry about them. They always get plenty of pets, play time, and snuggles.

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Logan K.
Sitter Profile Image: Yasmin M.
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Yasmin M.
Star Sitter
from
$75
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
83 reviews
30 repeat clients
15 years of experience
Drake, Des Moines, IA, 50311

Great job by Yasmin. Cyrus the dog got to run in the yard and play tug, and Frank the cat was safely fed in the privacy of his bedroom. Well done and we appreciate Yasmin's pet care.

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Sara S.
Sitter Profile Image: Jean M.
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Jean M.
from
$75
per night
30 years of experience
Des Moines, IA, 50317

About: Feeding, watering, and exercising your four-legged family members is the easy part. My priority is making sure your furry friends feel loved and special while you’re not able to be there. I know the stress and worry of having to be away and hoping your pet is being well-cared for. I am there to ease your mind and to make it less stressful for you and your pet. I am an expert cat and dog snuggler and have been known to be a cat whisperer for those felines that don’t warm up easily. Although I am new to this platform, I am not new to taking care of pets. I have been a cat and dog owner for over 30 years. I am also a proud cat/dog auntie for my nieces and nephew’s pets. Over the years I have also watched many friends pets while they travel. For most of last year while traveling for work, I housesat and watched furry loved ones through another platform while traveling for work in the DC area. I have been in healthcare for more than two decades, but I am currently on a break to work on some new projects. That work happens in my home office and I am my own boss. So my schedule is open and flexible. I am also comfortable taking care of special medical issues your pet may have. I have been in healthcare for more than two decades, but I am currently on a break to work on some new projects. That work happens in my home office and I am my own boss. So my schedule is open and flexible. I am also comfortable taking care of special medical issues your pet may have. I will care for your pets like they are my own and will follow any special instructions/rules that you have. Their safety is my top priority

Sitter Profile Image: Dawn F.
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Dawn F.
from
$100
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
3 reviews
2 repeat clients
45 years of experience
Swan, IA, 50252

About: I've had pets all my life and would love to care for yours too, on a temporary basis. I love to vacation and often struggle with finding a solution for my babies while I'm gone. For me my favorite choice is to have someone I know and trust stay in my home but there's hardly ever anyone available for that kind of commitment! I thought it would be awesome to be able to provide that kind of care for someone else: house/pet sitting, drop-in, or just walks/exercise. I want you to know your pets are loved and treated with gentle kindness. I recognize that I'm kind of a stranger to your babies and I'll treat them like my own and earn their trust! They'll be loved and cared for in a way that will make your absence less stressful for them and as much like their normal days as it can be while you're away. I take my responsibilities to others extremely seriously and won't be satisfied unless you are! I'm retired so my schedule is very flexible! I have availability on weekdays and weekends both. Mornings, afternoons, and evenings are fine by mutual agreement. I enjoy taking find for walks or just playing outside in the yard. On days where weather is bad, I'm happy to get the dogs outside to do their business and then play a bit indoors!

Sitter Profile Image: Adrianne H.
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Adrianne H.
from
$50
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
11 reviews
4 repeat clients
5 years of experience
Ankeny, IA, 50021

Adrianne watched my high maintenance Kit for a long weekend and he absolutely loved her! We received updates and photos often. I can tell he was very loved when we were gone and it was so nice not worrying about him all weekend! Will have Adrianna stay with Kit again!!

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Sophie S.
Sitter Profile Image: Rachael W.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Rachael W.
Star Sitter
from
$150
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
35 reviews
16 repeat clients
4 years of experience
Des Moines, IA, 50320

About: I have worked with cats and dogs of all sizes and ages, I strive to provide the best experience for not only the pet but the pet parent as well! I have experience working at the Animal Rescue League alongside my own animals and friends and families animals I’m an open availability sitter I will always put the needs of someone’s animals at the forefront of anything! I have all the time and attention in the world to give your babies I love taking my boys on walks, to the park, and love giving them a variety of enrichment throughout the day! We love exploring and trying new things at a comfortable pace for the animal! I can also follow a schedule and I’m flexible with whatever the pet parent needs to give the most ful filling service

Sitter Profile Image: Kendra S.
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Kendra S.
from
$26
per night
2 years of experience
Ankeny, IA, 50023

Kendra was very flexible and so sweet to my baby 🥰 she updated me throughout and communicated very well regarding any needs/concerns. Will definitely be utilizing her in the future!

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Emily M.
Sitter Profile Image: Christina C.
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Christina C.
from
$35
per night
4.9 out of 5 stars
16 reviews
4 repeat clients
5 years of experience
West Des Moines, IA, 50266

Christina took great care of my annoying (she called “snuggly”) cat, who routinely tries to beat up my large dog. Would for sure book her again.

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Mara E.
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The median cost per night for house sitting in Runnells is $45

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 - Runnells

Select a filter and find qualifying sitters offering house sitting.

Sitters in Runnells average 4
repeat house sitting clients

FAQs for House Sitting - Runnells

Frequently asked questions about Rover

As of August 2026, there are 508 sitters on Rover offering House Sitting across Runnells. 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 Runnells 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 Runnells 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 Runnells 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 Runnells. On Rover:

  • 88% of sitters can help with special care needs
  • 98% can help with giving oral medications or injections
  • 91% 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.

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