Pet Sitting in Santa Barbara

About: Just returning to the app! My entire life has revolved around animals. I grew up in a family that always adopted the “unadoptable” dogs — seniors, medical cases, and those with serious behavioral challenges. That gave me early, real-world experience managing everything from reactivity and anxiety to advanced medical needs. For years, I’ve worked professionally in animal rescue, boarding facilities, and under skilled dog trainers. I’ve fostered dozens of dogs with both behavioral and medical special needs, including those requiring strict medication schedules, wound care, and post-surgical recovery. I am comfortable with dogs of every breed, size, and temperament — from bully breeds to high-drive working dogs to seniors who just need gentle support. Because of my background, I know the difference that true experience makes. Too often, pet owners are forced to leave their dogs with sitters who aren’t equipped to handle more than the basics. My goal is to offer the kind of care I expect for my own dogs: knowledgeable, reliability, and peace of mind. When your dog is with me, you can feel confident that they’re being cared for by someone who has dedicated years to understanding and working with animals at every level. I work from home with a fully flexible schedule, so I can tailor care around your dog’s needs. Your pup will have constant supervision and attentive care throughout the day We have a 5 acres and a fully dog proofed fenced yard for dogs to enjoy. We listen to what you tell us about their needs and personality and will cater to that. We know every dog is unique.

“Stephanie is wonderful. She is sweet and caring with my old dog. She is very responsive to questions and flexible in scheduling. Feel lucky to have found someone I can trust with my dog!”

Debby H.

About: I’ve cared for animals my whole life—dogs, cats, and especially puppies. I’ve personally trained two puppies from scratch, so I’m comfortable with the patience and consistency it takes to support a dog through their early years. I have a deep, intuitive connection with animals and often find I understand their energy and needs even better than people’s. I work for myself from home here in Santa Barbara, which means I have plenty of flexibility to give pets the time, attention, and companionship they deserve. Whether it's daily walks, belly rubs, or just a calm, safe space, I approach every animal with genuine care and a tender heart. I’m also very active, so long walks and outdoor time are a highlight for both me and the dogs I care for. I work for myself and from home, so my schedule is very flexible. That means I can easily adapt to your pet’s needs—whether it’s regular walks, drop-in visits, or overnight care. I’ll always make time to give your pet the attention and consistency they deserve. Every animal is unique, and I take the time to understand their individual needs, energy, and comfort level. I’ll meet your dog or cat where they’re at—whether that means extra space, extra snuggles, or gentle structure—with clear, compassionate boundaries to keep them safe and happy. If your pet is staying with me, they’ll be treated like one of my own. I live in a calm, pet-friendly apartment near Santa Barbara City College, with plenty of walkable paths and green spaces nearby. I love getting outside and take dogs on multiple long walks throughout the day. If your dog is social and has solid recall, I can bring them to local off-leash areas for supervised play and exploration. I have one small dog of my own—Pepper, a 3.5-year-old mixed breed who’s very friendly and well-socialized. I also have two young stepsons who are with us 50% of the time, so dogs staying in our home must be kid-friendly. The good news? Your dog will get plenty of love and attention from four caring humans. I’ve trained two of my own dogs from puppyhood and am confident managing a range of behaviors—from leash training to crate routines and basic obedience. I’m also comfortable administering medications and caring for senior pets or those with special needs. For cat care, I’m especially attuned to their unique rhythms and boundaries, and I provide calm, consistent care whether I’m visiting your home or caring for them during a stay. Whether I’m boarding, walking, or house sitting, your pet will be safe, respected, and genuinely cared for—just like family.

“We were so pleased with the care our rather old, rather shy cat received from Crispin. And, to my amazement-the kitty area was as clean as I left it. Crispin, both kitty and I thank you!”

Jane A.

“Mike did a great job at watching Dante! He followed all the instructions I gave him and I was able to leave for the weekend with no worries. I'm glad to know I'll have a reliable sitter in the future”

Cristian S.

About: Hello! I’m Kelli, and I’ve been taking care of animals friends, family, and even my job for as long as I can remember! I have a lot of animal care experience - everything from cats and dogs to large farm and zoo animals - so I know how to handle pets of any size! I’m looking for a way to make some extra money when I’m not working, so I hope you’ll trust me to take your fur baby! I am a zookeeper at the Santa Barbara Zoo, so animal care is my entire job. I pride myself on high levels of attention, safety, and love that I provide to all the animals around me! I am a very vigilant sitter, and I promise to take the very best care of your pet while out and about. If you have any special requests or questions, please feel free to reach out.

About: New to Santa Barbara and open to one time/reoccurring clients! I've been around and owned dogs/cats/lizards/bunnies/horses my whole life. I have 4 years of experience as a dog handler at doggy daycares in Arizona and most recently Chicago. Through my experience, I can confidently say I can follow feeding routines, administer medication, monitor dogs' behavior, and follow proper leashing procedures. I have worked with dogs under 10 lbs up to 150+. I have worked with high-anxiety, reactive and special needs dogs and can assure you I have all the patience in the world to insure the comfort and safety of your pet. I have a 1.5year old German Shepherd who has vastly expanded my skills in dog handling and training. At my most recent job one of my key roles was guiding puppies and adolescents through social interactions as well as practicing being on a leash. I’m happy to work on leash manners with dogs of any age! I am on Rover full time at the moment so I have all the time in the world for your furry friends! I do have my own dog and 2 cats so I’m not currently available for any over night stays. I have my own car and live close to down town so same day bookings are no problem! I am a strong believer in leaving a place better than you found it. I can assure you that safety, trust, ( and fun of course!) are my top priorities. I am very precise when following instructions and caregiving needs. My relationship with your furry friend is just as important to me as the relationship I have with you! I will be sure to have clear and consistent communication with you throughout any booking. I also love love love getting good pictures of pups and will be sure to send you many!

“Kathleen is an excellent pet sitter! She went above and beyond for us. We have a reactive dog and Kathleen was able to gain his trust and work with him. Additionally, our other dog broke out of her crate and Kathleen handled the (messy) situation expertly. All in all, Kathleen is incredibly accommodating, highly experienced, and down-right superb. We rate her a solid 10/10 and HIGHLY recommend her!”

Samantha N.

About: I have been a lifelong dog lover and love to play with dogs and take care of them! My daughter is also a great help and dogs love to play with her. We can’t wait to see yours! I am a stay at home mom, and am flexible and will stay home while I have your pup. We have a fenced yard so your pup can play safely. I’m available for boarding, walking, and daycare. We love animals and would love to give yours a lot of fun! Our front yard is fully fenced in for potty breaks and we live in a very safe, friendly and walkable neighborhood!

“Cassandra did a wonderful job watching our dogs on a niche rover experience to hold them while we got married inside the Santa Barbara courthouse!! Thank you for helping on our special day!”

Abby D.

About: I have been taking care of animals my whole life. I’m happy to help meet your dogs needs, whether it’s a walk, a visit, or a longer stay. I have taken care of medically complex and senior dogs for many years as well. I’d love to help care for your animal as if it is my own. I currently work at an elementary school which is off for the summer! I have open availability and a flexible schedule so I can help out when you need. I am a well organized and caring caretaker. I treat the animals in my care with love and respect, making sure to meet the individual needs of your pet. I’m always respectful and caring when in other people’s homes.

About: With seven years of experience and as a certified dog trainer I embrace working with all types of dogs, no matter height, weight, age, breed or behavior. I can use training techniques to teach dogs obedience and other desirable behaviors. Or we can just enjoy each other's company. I have basic study of canines and their learning theory. I’m an Animal Behavior College alumni, I have interned at The Best Friends Animal Shelter in Los Angeles, CA. Please feel free to ask any questions. I will be more than happy to answer them. A mentally and physically tired dog is very happy dog. My calendar is up to date so feel free to reach out if you have any last minute requests! I will do my best to accommodate. After playing catch, a long walk and some dinner your pup will be ready for bed. I’m happy to follow his usual sleeping arrangement whether its sleeping in a crate or on his bed to ensure he feels comfortable and safe.

“Always great when we book with Leo - very attentive and flexible. Good communication while we were away, and we came home to a very happy cat! Will book again, for sure.”

John S.

About: I have taken care of Dogs of all sizes, cats, bunnies, and even the occasional Koi fish. Whether your pet needs a long leisurely walk along the beach as the sun sets off into the distance, or some company for their candlelit dinner of their finest kibble. I will be there for all of your pet's needs and become buddies in the process. I work a Full-time job throughout the week but in a hybrid capacity. I work from home three days a week and am available in the evenings. My weekends are also completely free! When caring for pets in a client’s home, I focus on maintaining a safe, familiar, and low-stress environment. I follow all provided instructions carefully, including feeding schedules, medication needs, exercise routines, and any special care details. I make sure pets feel secure by sticking to their usual routines and giving them plenty of attention and reassurance. I always respect the client’s home, ensuring it's left clean and just as I found it. I also keep a close eye on the pet’s behavior and health, and communicate regularly with owners through updates and photos so they feel confident their pet is in good hands. My goal is to make each pet feel comfortable and cared for while giving owners peace of mind.

About: I have cared for all animals, from dogs to reptiles to spiders! I love learning and caring for animals. Ones with energy are my favorite! I also love a good chill pet:) I work my animal care around my practies and class, I have 2 morning (6-8am) and 2 afternoon (11-2pm) practices a week, along with 2 evening classes on Tuesday Thursday (5-7pm). I have a good amount of time between my responsibilities for pet care! I live in an apartment so prefer to care out of home, would be happy to house a cat or small dog for a few days if needed!

About: I grew up with a Bouvier Des Flandres and currently have one now so I'm experienced with taking care of dogs from puppyhood to the elder years. My first dog was oversized (180+ lbs) and my second dog is undersized (80 lbs), but both still relatively large so I'm experienced handling endless energy and strong dogs. Finally, my current dog has IBS and stage 2 renal failure so strict diets, meds, and endless vet appointments are something I'm very understanding and experienced in handling. I keep a flexible, self-managed schedule, so I have plenty of time to play with your doggo! I’m available most mornings, lunchtime, and early evenings, with weekend availability for longer walks or house sitting. I offer dog walks, drop-ins, and house sitting in your home (my kitchen is currently being remodeled so my house is on hold for now). For each visit I: 1. Do a quick safety check (collar/harness fit, gates/doors). 2. Tailor walks to your pet’s needs and the weather (sniff breaks included!). 3. Refresh water, follow feeding/meds instructions, check for paws fox tails, and wipe paws if needed. 3. Send photo updates with a brief summary so you know how the visit went. 4. During house sits I keep your pet’s routine (mealtimes, bedtime, favorite routes) and treat your home respectfully (plants/mail/packages as requested). 5. Potty breaks!

About: I grew up with a small Havanese that was well loved. I had the joy of taking care of him in his last few weeks before he passed. I have a passion for showing senior dogs the love and care they deserve. I work an office job downtown 8am-6pm Monday-Friday. I have some flexibility at lunch time and my weekends are open unless I am out of town. I pride myself in being respectful of your space. I may ask a lot of questions beforehand, but it is in an effort to make sure that I am prepared and you can relax!

“Natasha was as super as her reviews have shown. Our dog was quite jumpy and nervous during his first hotel stay. As soon as Natasha waked in the room, he calmed down! We highly recommend her!”

Nicole G.

“Thank you Aliyah, for taking such good care of Figgy and sending updates and photos. You made my time away less stressful knowing that she was being cared for so well. :) Nancy and Fig^^”

Nancy B.

About: I have been around dogs and other pets my whole life. When I was a kid, I walked dogs in our neighborhood, including my own. I used to have my own hedgehog, and have helped care for friends’ dogs and cats. I work part-time and have time during my days to stop in and spend time with your pets! Mornings are the most free for me, and I am not traveling much in the coming months, so I am available for overnights. I am a big fan of spending time with pets, and would love to follow all specific directions that you might have for the care of your pet.